News & Top StoriesCurrently, Mahindra XUV 3XO Petrol Variants Make Up Almost 70% Of All Bookings.
- In April 2024, Mahindra unveiled the XUV 3XO, a facelifted version of the XUV 300.
- It comes with a choice of 1.5-liter diesel and 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engines, each paired with an automatic transmission.
- Compared to diesel versions, petrol versions can be purchased for up to Rs 1.6 lakh less.
- The Mahindra SUV‘s starting pricing (ex-showroom, nationwide) ranges from Rs 7.49 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO, a facelifted version of the XUV300 SUV, was released at the end of April 2024. On May 15, the automaker began accepting reservations for the new SUV; it was subsequently disclosed that it had received 50,000 orders in the first hour. Top Mahindra executives also provided some information on the orders they have received for the new SUV during a recent investor meeting.
Increased Demand for Petrol
In contrast to the reputation of Mahindra SUVs, according to Mahindra spokespeople, the petrol models of the XUV 3XO make up almost 70% of all reservations made up to this point. It’s hardly shocking, considering that even the XUV300’s sales distribution over time has been fairly evenly split between the two fuel kinds. About 45% of SUV sales in January 2024 were of the gasoline variety, with the diesel and electric (XUV400) versions accounting for the remaining 55%.
The fact that the petrol versions are up to Rs 1.6 lakh less expensive than their diesel counterparts is another reason why there is probably more demand for them. This can play a big role in the decision-making process for those looking to purchase a sub-4 million SUV as opposed to those choosing larger and more expensive Mahindra SUVs like the Thar, Scorpio N, or even XUV700.
A Modernized Pair of Engines
Mahindra decided to keep supplying its sub-4 million SUV with diesel and petrol powertrains along with the makeover, but on its petrol engines, it swapped out the AMT automatic for a “proper” torque converter unit. Here are some of the available engine-gearbox combinations:
| Specification | 1.2-litre turbo-petrol | 1.2-litre TGDi turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre diesel |
| Power | 112 PS | 130 PS | 117 PS |
| Torque | 200 Nm | Up to 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AT | MT and AT six-speeds | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AMT |
| Claimed Mileage | 18.89 kmpl, 17.96 kmpl | 20.1 kmpl, 18.2 kmpl | 20.6 kmpl, 21.2 kmpl |
Three drive modes are also available for the higher-spec petrol-automatic variants: Zip, Zap, and Zoom. Perhaps the popularity of the petrol-powered 3XO models has also been attributed to the option of a more sophisticated automatic powertrain combined with segment-leading performance.
Cost Range and Rivals
The starting pricing of the Mahindra XUV 3XO (ex-showroom, all of India) ranges from Rs 7.49 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh. Its rivals include the Nissan Magnite, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV. Another option for sub-4 million crossovers like the Maruti Fronx and Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is the Mahindra SUV.
News & Top StoriesThe Tata Nexon May Obtain A Panoramic Roof
With its first-in-class features, the Mahindra XUV 3XO has undoubtedly given competitors pause to think about improving their features. It appears that the Tata Nexon, which leads the segment, would be the first to react by adding a panoramic sunroof as well. This is based on a recently released internet video that shows a Nexon equipped with that feature on a factory floor.
3XO XUV Effect?
The XUV 3XO replaced the XUV300 with a makeover and came with a ton of features that led the sector to a price that was competitive for its launch. The combination of these elements explains why, in the first hour of opening the order books, Mahindra received over 50,000 bookings for its new sub-4m SUV.
Since the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO on April 29, 2024, Tata has already revealed new base-spec models for the Nexon that are powered by gasoline and diesel, bringing the car’s starting price closer to that of the entry-level 3XO versions. Although the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof may have been in Nexon’s development plan from the beginning, it wouldn’t be shocking if Tata decided to move forward the date of this feature’s launch in reaction to competition.
Additional anticipated changes for the Tata Nexon include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which are available for the XUV 3XO, Kia Sonet, and Hyundai Venue in addition to other vehicles.
Present Features of the Nexon
The Tata Nexon has many amenities, such as air purification, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, sequential LED DRLs with welcome and goodbye functions, and a JBL sound system. Voice control is already available for the single-pane electric sunroof on the current Nexon model.
Anticipated Release
It appears that a video showing the Tata Nexon with a panoramic sunroof was leaked from the manufacturing line, raising the possibility that the revised Nexon will be released shortly. It will still compete in the same segment as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV.
The potential of a CNG powertrain is another Nexon improvement that was formally hinted at at the Bharat Mobility Expo in February 2024. Later this year, the Nexon CNG is anticipated to debut, putting the Maruti Brezza CNG models in direct competition.
News & Top StoriesSpy photos of the facelifted Kia Carens appear online
- Early in 2022, Kia introduced the Carens MPV in India.
- Alloy wheels, a revised grille, and new lighting are anticipated for the facelifted model.
- Anticipated to keep the current model‘s dashboard layout and dual-tone look.
- A 360-degree camera, ADAS, and dual-zone air conditioning could be among the new amenities on board.
- Most likely to come with the same set of transmissions and the same gasoline and diesel engines as the current model.
- 2025 is the anticipated introduction year in India; an EV version will follow after that year.
Since early 2022, the Kia Carens have been offered for sale in India as a more expensive and spacious substitute for the Maruti Ertiga. It has received updates in the form of new models and feature enhancements, but the recently released collection of foreign espionage photos suggests that it may soon get a proper facelift abroad.
Notable Changes
We anticipate some adjustments to be made to the exterior design of the facelifted Carens, however, it is difficult to identify for sure what has changed just yet (because of the thick camouflage). Anticipate these to be upgraded connected LED tail lights that now mimic those on the new Sonet, a reworked grille and alloy wheels, and a new headlamp configuration.
Anticipated Seat and Amenity Modifications
This collection of spy photos does not feature the facelifted Carens cabin. We anticipate Kia will keep the same 6- and 7-seat arrangements in addition to the dual-tone cabin motif. Having said that, the only significant modification might be new seat coverings and perhaps an upgraded climate control panel.
Even though the Carens is currently a well-equipped MPV, it may benefit from a panoramic sunroof and dual-zone air conditioning to further enhance its upscale interior. It already has a sunroof, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, and two 10.25-inch screens (one for infotainment and the other for instruments).
Regarding security, we anticipate that Kia will equip the redesigned MPV with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a 360-degree camera. Six airbags are standard on all Carens models that are currently available in India, along with a tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear parking camera.
An assortment of powertrains
We think Kia will keep offering the facelifted Carens with the same engine options as the existing model, as it was intended for India. It currently has the following options for the engine and gearbox:
| Specification | 1.5-litre N/A Petrol | 1.5-litre Turbo-petrol | 1.5-litre Diesel |
| Power | 115 PS | 160 PS | 116 PS |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 253 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT | 6-speed iMT*, 7-speed DCT^ | 6-speed MT, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT |
Anticipated Release Date And Cost
Sometime in 2025, the redesigned Kia Carens is anticipated to go on sale in India; it will probably cost more than the outgoing model. To give you an idea, the ex-showroom pricing of the Carens, in its current specification, ranges from Rs 10.52 lakh to Rs 19.67 lakh. The facelifted MPV will continue to compete against the Maruti XL6, Toyota Rumion, and Toyota Innova Crysta in addition to the Maruti Ertiga. It will also function as a reasonably priced substitute for the Maruti Invicto and Toyota Innova Hycross.
News & Top StoriesThe launch of the new Maruti Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant lowers the cost of six airbags.
- Maruti Compared to the standard Delta Plus version, it comes with six airbags and a puncture repair kit.
- The cost of the six airbags with the Fronx is now Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was before the release of these new versions.
- The new Delta Plus (O) model from Maruti is available with an AMT or manual transmission.
- Delta Plus (O) is more expensive than the standard version by Rs 15,000 for both manual and automated models.
In April 2023, Maruti Fronx made its debut as a subcompact crossover in India. Up until now, Maruti has provided the Fronx in the following five general variants: Zeta, Alpha, Delta, Delta+, and Sigma. It now has an extra Delta Plus (O) type, though, and it’s limited to the 1.2-liter normally aspirated engine. Before delving into additional information, let us examine the costs of the recently released variations.
| Existing Variants | New Variants | Difference |
| Delta Plus MT- Rs 8.78 lakh | Delta Plus (O) MT – Rs 8.93 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
| Delta Plus AMT – Rs 9.28 lakh | Delta Plus (O) AMT – Rs 9.43 lakh | + Rs 15,000 |
Optional features for the new Delta Plus (O) grade include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. Here, trims—manual and automatic—cost an additional Rs 15,,000.
Modernized Safety
The addition of six airbags and a puncture repair kit—features not included in the standard Delta Plus variant—to the Fronx is one of its most significant changes. It is significant to remember that the Zeta model, which costs Rs 10.56 lakh (ex-showroom), was the previous model that included the six airbags. With the release of the new Delta Plus (O) model, this functionality is now available for Rs 1.6 lakh less than it was previously.
Additional Features Available
The Fronx Delta Plus (O) model boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 4-speaker sound system, automated climate control, and an IRVM (internal rearview mirror) that works both during the day and at night.
The Fronx is equipped with additional safety features such as ISOFIX child seat anchorage, electronic stability control (ESC), hill hold assist, seatbelt reminder for every seat, and 3-point seatbelts for every seat.
Powertrain
The specifications of the 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine that powers the Fronx Delta Plus (O) variant are listed below:
| Engine | 1.2-litre petrol |
| Power | 90 PS |
| Torque | 113 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT |
The new Delta Plus (O) type, which has more safety features, is not equipped with the 1-liter turbo-petrol engine (100 PS / 148 Nm) that is an option for the ordinary Delta Plus variant.
Competitors
While it can be considered an alternative to the, the Maruti Fronx is a direct competitor of the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. small SUVs, such as the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Maruti Brezza, and Tata Nexon.
News & Top StoriesWith its India lineup, MG adds British racing colors.
- Except for the Comet EV, every model has a Rs 20,000 price increase for the special edition above the base vehicles.
- The special edition Comet EV costs an additional Rs 16, 000.
- A new exterior hue, a blacked-out interior, and a personalized infotainment touchscreen are included with the 100-Year Edition.
Except for the Gloster, MG has lately introduced a special edition for all of its models in India. The MG Astor, Hector, Hector Plus, Comet EV, and ZS EV models are the ones that have the 100-Year Limited Edition available on them. This limited edition honors MG’s more than a century-long racing heritage. These special editions come with the following features and prices.
Price
| Model | Variant | Special Edition | Standard Variant | Difference |
| MG Astor | Sharp Pro 1.5 Petrol MT | Rs 14.81 lakh | Rs 14.61 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
| Sharp Pro 1.5 Petrol CVT | Rs 16.08 lakh | Rs 15.88 lakh | + Rs 20,000 | |
| MG Hector | Sharp Pro Petrol CVT 5 Seater | Rs 21.20 lakh | Rs 21 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
| Sharp Pro Petrol CVT 7 Seater | Rs 21.93 lakh | Rs 21.73 lakh | + Rs 20,000 | |
| MG Comet EV | Exclusive FC | Rs 9.40 lakh | Rs 9.24 lakh | + Rs 16,000 |
| MG ZS EV | Exclusive Plus | Rs 24.18 lakh | Rs 23.98 lakh | + Rs 20,000 |
The Comet EV special edition is offered on the top-spec Exclusive FC variation, which was added a while back, while the Astor, Hector, and ZS EV special editions are based on the mid-spec variants. This limited edition is available on both the manual and CVT versions of the Astor small SUV from MG.
This limited edition Hector is available with both a 5-seater and a 7-seater (Hector Plus) configuration and with a choice of gasoline or diesel engines. The Hector and Hector Plus gasoline manual versions are not compatible with this special edition, and MG has not yet disclosed the cost of the diesel versions.
Modifications
This special edition is available for all MG vehicles. Inspired by the British Racing Green color, the façade features a black roof along with other blacked-out details in the hue “Evergreen.” Black or dark chrome components have taken the place of the outside chrome pieces. A “100-Year Edition” badging is also added to the tailgate of all models.
The interior of these editions is completely black, with a black dashboard, green and black upholstery, and ‘100-Year Edition’ badging on the headrests of the front seats. These premium models also include a customizable widget and an “Evergreen” colored motif for the touchscreen infotainment system.
Additional Special Editions
The Astor, Hector, and Gloster are also available in a “Blackstorm” edition, which has an all-black exterior and interior with red inserts. This is not the only special edition in MG’s portfolio. Those limited editions don’t look quite as unique as this 100-Year Edition, though.
News & Top StoriesWhat Every Maruti Swift 2024 Variant Offers Is This
After a delayed debut, the new Maruti Swift 2024 is now available in India for as little as Rs 6.50 lakh (ex-showroom). The upgraded Swift has a new engine and is now loaded with many additional capabilities. It is available in five broad variants: Lxi, Vxi, Vxi (O), Zxi, and Zxi+. Determine which Maruti hatchback version best meets your demands if you intend to purchase one.
Swift Lxi
Price: Rs 6.50 lakh
The following features are included in the new Swift base-spec variant:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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| None |
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There is no infotainment available on the base-spec version, but it does include some convenience and comfort amenities and is well-equipped for safety. The Lxi model with low specs only has a manual transmission.
Swift Vxi
Price: Rs 7.30 lakh to Rs 7.80 lakh
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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The VXi variation which is one step beyond the standard model has minor external modifications but a relatively little safety package upgrade. It does, however, come with a useful entertainment suite that includes wireless smartphone connectivity and a 4-speaker sound system. You also have the choice of a 5-speed automatic manual transmission (AMT) starting with this version.
Swift Vxi (O)
Price: Rs 7.57 lakh to Rs 8.07 lakh
The hatchback’s mid-spec Vxi (O) model is equipped with the following added features:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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For an additional Rs 27,000, the hatchback’s Vxi (O) model offers a few more comfort amenities but not much more than the Vxi variation. However, starting with this version, you also receive Suzuki Connect, Maruti’s linked automobile feature.
Swift Zxi
Price: Rs 8.30 lakh to Rs 8.80 lakh
Compared to the mid-spec Vxi model, the one-below-top Zxi variation has the following features:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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| None |
Along with a ton of comfort and convenience options including a height-adjustable driver seat, automatic climate control, and a wireless phone charger, this hatchback version gets visual upgrades. This version of the new Swift is predicted to be the most popular since it comes with all the expected conveniences and a premium appearance.
Swift Zxi+
Price: Rs 9 lakh to Rs 9.65 lakh
The top-spec Swift model offers the following features above the Zxi variant:
| Exterior | Interior | Infotainment | Comfort & Convenience | Safety |
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A few feature additions are made to the top-spec model of the new Swift in every sector. It provides more luxurious interiors, more safety, and an updated infotainment system. Dual-tone exterior shades are another option available with this model, although they come at an additional cost of Rs 15,,000.
Every price is ex-showroom.
These were the new Maruti Swift’s variant-specific features. Which of these versions, in your opinion, is the most useful and provides the greatest value? Tell us in the comments section below.