Mahindra XUV3OO Launched in South Africa: What's New and How It Compares to the Indian Model
Mahindra Auto continues to expand its global presence with the recent launch of the Mahindra XUV3OO in South Africa. After revolutionizing the sub-4m SUV segment in India with this model, Mahindra has now brought it to the South African market. While the XUV3OO has retained much of its original appeal, there are some notable differences between the Indian and South African versions, including changes to the interior and pricing. Here’s a closer look at how the two models compare and what new features South African buyers can expect.
Mahindra has been steadily working to strengthen its foothold in international markets, and launching the XUV3OO in South Africa marks a significant step forward. The vehicle, which has been a game-changer in the Indian subcompact SUV market, is now available in a variety of trim levels in South Africa, from the entry-level MX2 Petrol MT to the fully-loaded AX7L Petrol AT .
Prices in South Africa start at Rand 254,999 for the MX2 Petrol MT variant and go up to Rand 404,999 for the top-spec AX7L Petrol AT model. This translates to a price range of approximately Rs 12.15 lakh to Rs 19.30 lakh based on current exchange rates. In comparison, the Indian pricing for the XUV3OO ranges from Rs 7.49 lakh for the base model to Rs 15.49 lakh for the top-end AX7L variant. While the price in South Africa is notably higher, this can be attributed to shipping costs and other regional factors.
One of the most significant differences between the Indian and South African models is the engine offering. In India, the top-spec XUV3OO is available with the more powerful TGDi Turbo Petrol engine, delivering 129 bhp and 230 Nm of torque. However, the South African market only gets the lower-spec TC MPFi engine , which produces 109 bhp and 200 Nm of torque.
The South African XUV3OO comes with two gearbox options – a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed AISIN automatic torque converter . This is consistent with what is offered in the Indian market, but the absence of the more powerful TGDi engine in South Africa may disappoint some enthusiasts who were looking forward to a higher performance option.
In terms of design, the South African XUV3OO remains largely unchanged from its Indian counterpart. All the key exterior elements, including the vehicle's bold stance, aggressive front grille, and sharp LED lighting, have been carried over. This consistency ensures that the XUV3OO retains its modern and stylish appearance, which has been one of its key selling points.
However, it is the interior where the South African model sees more notable changes.
While the exterior remains familiar, Mahindra has made significant interior changes for the South African market. The XUV3OO sold in South Africa comes with an all-black dashboard and door trims, accompanied by silver pillar trims and a black headliner . Additionally, the seats are upholstered in black fabric, giving the cabin a sleek, premium feel.
In comparison, the Indian model features a dual-tone dashboard and door trims, along with white leatherette upholstery in the higher variants. While the white interior in the Indian model adds a touch of elegance, it has received mixed reviews due to its tendency to get soiled easily. The all-black interior of the South African version may be more practical for long-term use, and some Indian customers might even wish for a similar option in their market.
Apart from the interior color scheme, the XUV3OO in South Africa comes loaded with most of the features seen in the India-spec model. Panoramic sunroof , dual-zone climate control , 17-inch alloy wheels , rear AC vents , and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are all present, ensuring that the South African XUV3OO offers a high level of comfort and convenience.
Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) , which includes features like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) , enhancing the overall safety of the vehicle. This technology, which is becoming more prevalent in global markets, gives the XUV3OO an edge in terms of both safety and innovation.
The launch of the Mahindra XUV3OO in South Africa signals Mahindra’s strong ambitions for global expansion. The vehicle offers the same attractive design and high-tech features as its Indian counterpart, but with a few changes in the engine lineup and interior design. The South African model’s all-black interior provides a more practical and premium feel, while the absence of the more powerful TGDi engine might leave some enthusiasts wanting more.
Overall, the XUV3OO remains a competitive offering in the South African subcompact SUV market, packed with advanced features and safety technologies that have already made it a success in India. Whether Mahindra can replicate the same level of success in South Africa remains to be seen, but the XUV3OO’s strong foundation suggests that it is well-positioned to make an impact.
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