The sub 4m SUV sector in India is experiencing heightened competition making it crucial for key players to carve out a niche. Mahindra, known for its ladder-frame vehicles, is poised to introduce a significant facelift for its monocoque model, the XUV300.
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift: Anticipated Changes
Mahindra is currently riding a wave of success with its mid-size SUVs, including the Scorpio Classic, Scorpio N, and XUV700. The brand aims to extend this success to the sub 4m segment and strengthen its position amid growing competition.
The XUV300, Mahindra's sole monocoque sub 4m vehicle, is on the brink of receiving a major facelift, expected to launch in the coming months. Recent spy shots by automotive enthusiast Ganesh Pagar reveal a convoy of XUV300 facelift test mules, showcasing different trim levels.
Base Trim Features
The base trim of the XUV300 facelift is distinguishable by its steel wheels with conventional wheel covers and unpainted ORVMs. Despite its entry-level status, Mahindra retains blackened pillars for an upscale appearance.
Mid-Level Trims with Stylish Steel Wheels
Mahindra is adopting the trend of offering stylish steel wheels designed to mimic alloy wheels from a distance, a strategy also employed by Renault and Tata Motors. These wheels, combined with matching wheel covers, are expected to be featured in mid-level trims.
Higher Trim Highlights
The convoy also included a higher trim variant equipped with alloy wheels similar to the current model. Interior spy shots reveal a new, larger free-standing touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital instrument screen, akin to those in the recently launched XUV400 electric vehicle. Notably, no exhaust tips were visible in the spy shots, likely due to the angle of the pictures, as all vehicles had rear bumper cutouts for exhaust placement.
Powertrains and Pricing
The XUV300 facelift is anticipated to continue with its current powertrains: a 1.2L turbo petrol engine (109 bhp, 200 Nm, 6MT, 6AMT) (129 bhp, 230 Nm, 6MT), and a 1.5L diesel engine (115 bhp and 300 Nm, 6MT, 6AMT). Rumors suggest the inclusion of an Aisin-sourced torque converter with the facelift. Prices are expected to rise compared to the current XUV300, owing to the addition of new features and upgrades.