Mahindra has hinted at the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG and it is expected to be launched on 15 October. But it’s not a launch, either. The launch is reportedly scheduled before the end of this year, and the price may be announced a few weeks after the launch. Here is what is known, what is only reported, and what is still missing.
What the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG teaser shows
The teaser features a red XUV 3XO in REVX trim. It features LED headlamps, LED daytime running lamps and a panoramic sunroof, and it suggests CNG development. Mahindra has not revealed any specifications, mileage data, the layout of the tank or which trims will be offered with CNG. That’s important, as a sunroof on a teaser car doesn’t necessarily mean all CNG variants will have one. If the reported debut date is correct, more detail should follow on 15 October.
Price is the next big unknown
There is no price available. The report suggests that the premium will be Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh over the same petrol variant. The current XUV 3XO is priced at Rs 7.79 lakh ex-showroom, which means the CNG price will be largely dependent on the trim Mahindra chooses. The trims will only be confirmed by Mahindra and then only an exact number will be expected.
Why boot space is the real question
The petrol XUV 3XO is said to have the smallest boot size of 295 litres in its class. A CNG tank needs to be stored somewhere, and it can take up even more boot space. The way Mahindra packs it will determine the car’s family and luggage usability. There are various reports on where: underbody tank, dual-cylinder set-up or tank under the boot floor. Mahindra hasn’t stated and it remains to be seen if a spare wheel will fit.
Buyers will compare how each packs the tank, as rivals like the Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza are already available with factory CNG. That puts pressure on Mahindra to match them on boot space as well as running cost.
What to expect under the bonnet
CNG will be available on the 1.2-litre MPFI turbo-petrol engine, which is said to be easier and less expensive to convert than the direct-injection engine. Power and torque will be out and there is a possibility of a slight reduction compared to petrol. The gearbox is probably a 6-speed manual and an automatic at launch is improbable.
What to check before booking the XUV 3XO CNG
If you are looking to purchase the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG, then you should wait for these answers on 15 October:
- The boot space figure with the CNG tank fitted
- The location of the tank and if there is a spare wheel available
- Which trims get CNG
- The difference in price from the petrol version
- The power and torque of CNG.
If space in the boot is important to your family, then the teaser is not the deciding factor, the real one is. Until Mahindra provides these details, the XUV 3XO CNG is a good concept, not a ready-to-evaluate product.
