Shopping for a compact SUV that fits your budget and lifestyle? You’ve probably narrowed it down to two popular choices: the Mahindra XUV 3XO and Tata Nexon. Both vehicles have earned five-star safety ratings and offer impressive features, but they cater to different priorities. Let’s break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your family.
What’s Your Budget Looking Like?
Starting Prices That Make Sense
The XUV 3XO starts at ₹7.49 lakh, giving you a head start of about ₹66,000 compared to the Nexon’s ₹8.15 lakh entry price. This price difference might seem small, but it often determines which variant you can afford within your budget.
If you’re looking at mid-range variants where most buyers land, Mahindra has strategically priced the XUV 3XO to offer better value. The top-end variants of both SUVs end up quite close in pricing, so your decision might come down to features rather than cost at the higher end.
Tech Features: Where Your Money Goes
XUV 3XO’s Tech-Forward Approach
The XUV 3XO feels like stepping into the future. You get dual 10.25-inch screens – one for infotainment and another replacing traditional gauges. The panoramic sunroof makes the cabin feel spacious and airy, perfect for family road trips.
What really sets it apart is the Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). Features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist aren’t just fancy additions – they actually help during long highway drives and reduce fatigue.
The Harman Kardon 7-speaker system delivers crisp audio quality that music lovers will appreciate. Wireless charging keeps your phone topped up without the cable mess.
Nexon’s Refined Experience
The Nexon takes a more practical approach to features. Its 10.25-inch touchscreen works smoothly, and the digital cluster provides all necessary information clearly.
Ventilated seats are a blessing during hot Indian summers, something many compact SUVs skip. The JBL 7-speaker setup offers good sound quality, though not quite matching the XUV’s audio experience.
Small touches like the cooled glovebox, air purifier, and illuminated steering wheel show Tata’s attention to daily usability. The overall fit and finish feels more refined, with better material quality in most areas.
Performance: Power vs Efficiency
Driving Dynamics
The XUV 3XO’s turbocharged petrol engine produces 129 PS and 230 Nm of torque. This translates to confident overtaking on highways and peppy city driving. The engine feels responsive and delivers power smoothly across the rev range.
Nexon’s petrol engine makes 118 PS and 170 Nm. While these numbers look lower on paper, the Nexon still offers adequate performance for most driving situations. The engine feels refined and well-suited for daily commuting.
Fuel Economy Reality Check
Real-world testing shows the XUV 3XO delivering around 11.7 km/l with the automatic transmission, compared to the Nexon’s 10.8 km/l. This difference might save you ₹3,000-4,000 annually in fuel costs if you drive 15,000 km per year.
Both offer diesel variants if fuel efficiency is your top priority, with the Nexon typically achieving better diesel mileage figures.
Space and Comfort: Living With Your Choice Daily
Interior Space
The XUV 3XO’s 2600mm wheelbase creates more legroom, especially beneficial for rear passengers on longer journeys. The wider body also means more shoulder room for middle passengers.
However, the Nexon offers a larger 382-liter boot compared to the XUV’s 364 liters. This 18-liter difference might matter if you regularly carry large suitcases or sports equipment.
Ground Clearance Advantage
Nexon’s 208mm ground clearance gives it an edge on broken roads and speed breakers. If your daily route includes poorly maintained roads or you enjoy weekend trips to hill stations, this extra clearance proves valuable.
Safety: Both Earn Top Marks
Both SUVs have earned five-star ratings from Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP, so you’re getting excellent protection either way. Standard safety features include six airbags and electronic stability control.
The XUV 3XO’s ADAS features add an extra layer of active safety, particularly useful on highways. These systems can help prevent accidents before they happen, not just protect during crashes.
After-Sales Reality Check
Service Network Considerations
Tata has built a reputation for reliable after-sales service with widespread service centers and generally positive customer experiences. The Nexon benefits from this established network.
Some XUV 3XO owners report challenges with service response times and technician training in certain regions. Since the 3XO is relatively new, Mahindra is still building expertise across their network.
Making Your Decision
Choose XUV 3XO If:
- You prioritize latest technology and features
- Highway driving assistance appeals to you
- Better fuel economy matters for your budget
- You want more rear passenger space
- Tech-forward cabin experience excites you
Choose Nexon If:
- Proven reliability and service network matter most
- You need maximum boot space
- Better ground clearance suits your driving conditions
- Refined build quality is important
- You prefer practical features over cutting-edge tech
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV offers better value for money?
The XUV 3XO provides better value if you want modern features like ADAS and panoramic sunroof at a lower price point. The Nexon offers better value if you prioritize proven reliability, refined build quality, and established service support.
Is the fuel efficiency difference significant between these SUVs?
The XUV 3XO’s approximately 1 km/l better mileage translates to savings of ₹3,000-4,000 annually for average drivers. While noticeable, this difference shouldn’t be the sole deciding factor.
Which SUV is better for long highway trips?
The XUV 3XO edges ahead for highway travel due to its ADAS features, more powerful engine, and better rear passenger space. However, the Nexon’s refined ride quality and proven reliability make it equally capable for long journeys.
