Mahindra first showcased a spicier ‘Sportz’ variant of the XUV300 at the Auto Expo 2020. The variant in question was a sportier turbo-petrol iteration of the compact SUV, which was likely to launch in April 2020. However, the COVID-19 pandemic, and many other constraints resulted in multiple delays. The company is finally gearing up to bring a more powerful variant to the showrooms.
- XUV300 to get more powerful turbo petrol
- Will be available with manual only
Mahindra has received the green light from ICAT (International Centre for Automotive Technology), Manesar, an automotive certification agency in India, for a 1.2-litre direct injection three-cylinder turbo-petrol engined XUV300. This engines makes 131hp and 230Nm, which is 21hp and 30Nm more than the standard petrol XUV300. Transmitting power to the front wheels will be a sole 6-speed manual gearbox.
What'll be interesting to see is whether Mahindra adds this more powerful engine with the Sportz variant or simply replaces the current petrol engine on the standard vehicle with this more powerful unit.
Mahindra will also be equipping it with a mild-hybrid start-stop system to reduce CO2 emissions, and thus, helping it meet CAFE targets. It will also help owners keep a check on fuel consumption while the vehicle is idling.
If Mahindra launches it in XUV300 Sportz guise, like the vehicle displayed at the Auto Expo 2020, it could feature some body decals and red front brake calipers on the outside, and black interiors with red stitching on the inside.
Mahindra XUV300 launch
While the launch dates haven’t been announced, having received a certification from the authorising agency indicates that it could take place in the near future. When launched, the more powerful XUV300 will take on the Hyundai Venue N Line, a sportier iteration of the Venue compact SUV that’s scheduled to be launched on June 16, 2022.
Also read:
Mahindra XUV400 EV expected in 2023