Mahindra’s poised to stir up the sub-4m compact SUV segment with its upcoming model, the XUV300. The images shown at the time of its reveal included a shot of the cabin, but these are the first glimpses from inside a production-spec model which reaffirms and also reveals a couple of new features.
The dual-tone, beige-and-black dashboard with silver trim looks well laid out. The cabin appears to be a straight lift from the SsangYong Tivoli on which it’s based. From these photos, we can identify the controls for the traction control, automatic engine start-stop (Mahindra’s mild hybrid tech) and parking sensors on the right of the side of the steering wheel. We can also spot features like automatic headlamps and wipers as well as cruise control and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel.
The central console gets a touchscreen infotainment system, probably a 7-inch unit borrowed from the Marazzo, which is flanked by AC vents above the controls for the segment-first dual-zone auto climate. Mahindra has equipped the SUV with two USB ports and a power outlet in the central tray area as well as various cubby holes for storage. One of the controls on the silver band between the infotainment system and the climate controls is for switching steering modes. That XUV300 seems to have borrowed that feature from the Tivoli. The South Korean SUV offers three steering modes – normal, sport and comfort. The same silver band also sports an airbag deactivation switch to the left of the hazard lamp switch.
While we did spot a sunroof in the official photos, this is the first look at it from inside the cabin of the XUV300. This appears to be the top-spec variant of the XUV300.
The Mahindra XUV300 is expected to be offered with two engine options – a new 1.2-litre turbo petrol unit co-developed with SsangYong and the new 1.5-litre diesel engine from the Marazzo MPV. Both engines will be available with a 6-speed manual transmission at the time of launch and we expect an automatic option to be introduced later on.
The Mahindra XUV300 looks well equipped as far as features are concerned, but it remains to be seen how will they be distributed across variants when it launches in February. We expect Mahindra to price the XUV300 between Rs 8 lakh to Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, bookings have unofficially begun at select dealerships. The 2019 Mahindra XUV300 will go up against the likes of the Maruti Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport and the upcoming Hyundai QXi.
