2020 Mahindra XUV300 BS6 petrol review, test drive

As impressive as the Mahindra XUV300 is, it has always been amongst the pricier cars in its class. However, with the recent price correction of up to Rs 72,000 across the range, Mahindra made the XUV300 a lot more appealing than before. The reason why we are reviewing the XUV300 petrol in 2020, though, is to find out whether the BS6 version performs any differently compared to the BS4 version.

2020 Mahindra XUV300 petrol ride, handling and performance

For the transition to BS6, smaller-capacity petrol cars usually require a larger or an upgraded catalytic converter. In the XUV300 petrol’s case, the catalytic converter is the same as the BS4 version, although it gets some tweaks to meet the new emission norms. The good news is that neither performance, nor the drivability has been affected in any way. So, like before, the boost comes in around 2,200rpm, after which it accelerates with a greater sense of urgency. This isn’t a high-revving engine, so the revs max out at 6,000rpm, but you will do well to upshift at around 4,500rpm, as that’s where the power delivery remains the strongest.

In terms of outright performance, the BS6 timings were identical to the BS4 version, and even the slight variance in the fourth gear from 40-80kph is barely noticeable from behind the wheel. What’s also nice is that this three-cylinder turbo petrol engine is very refined, be it at idle or on the move.

With its light controls, the XUV300 petrol remains nice and easy to drive in the city, although the clutch pedal travel is a bit too long and it takes some getting used to its bite point.

Mahindra has got the ride and handling balance spot on. The ride comfort is so good that it absorbs road shocks like a much more expensive car. It also remains composed around corners and changes directions very competently. We only wish the steering were a bit more communicative. There are multiple steering modes that adjust its weight, but these don’t make it any sportier or sharper.

2020 Mahindra XUV300 petrol interiors

SsangYong’s Korean influence is evident in the Mahindra XUV300’s well-appointed interiors, high-quality plastics and overall fit-finish. The seat comfort is great, the driving position is very SUV-like, and visibility all around is nice as well. Space at the back is rather generous, with a good amount of headroom and knee room, and a wide seat that can accommodate three in comfort. What’s also nice is the inclusion of three individual head restraints, as well as a proper three-point seatbelt for the middle passenger. Not all is perfect, as some storage areas could have been design better. The biggest fly in the ointment, though, is its tiny 257-litre boot, which is smaller than some hatchbacks, and its loading lip is high too.

In terms of equipment, this W8 O variant is fully-loaded and gets features like dual-zone climate control, touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, cruise control, sunroof, keyless entry and go, reversing camera, auto headlamps with rain-sensing wipers and a lot more. What’s reassuring is that this is one of the safest compact SUVs you can buy in India. Not only is it equipped with ABS with EBD, ESP, seven airbags and all-wheel disc brakes, the XUV300 has also secured a solid 5 stars in Global NCAP crash tests.

Should you buy the 2020 Mahindra XUV300 petrol?

The price correction does make the XUV300 more appealing than before, but it is still one of the pricier cars in its class. But factor in its safety credentials, mature driving manners, and its equipment list, and this car does offer you your money’s worth. This is one of the most polished packages to wear a Mahindra badge, and it is one that deserves a serious consideration.

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