Mahindra XUV 3XO vs Tata Nexon: Premium Turbo-Petrol Automatic Compact SUV Showdown (₹13.49-13.80 lakh)

Key Considerations

Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 L Turbo AT

2. Price: 2.25% lower (₹13,49,000 vs ₹13,79,990)
3. Power: 9.17% more bhp (131 vs 120)
4. Torque: 35.29% higher peak torque (230Nm vs 170Nm)
5. Width: 0.94% wider body (1821mm vs 1804mm) for potentially more interior space
6. Height: 1.67% taller (1647mm vs 1620mm)
7. Wheelbase: 4.08% longer (2600mm vs 2498mm) for potentially more legroom
8. Fuel Efficiency: 6.99% better claimed mileage (18.2 km/l vs 17.01 km/l)

Tata Nexon Fearless DT DCA

2. Transmission: 7-speed DCA vs 6-speed AT for 16.67% more gear ratios
3. Length: 0.13% longer body (3995mm vs 3990mm)
4. Ground Clearance: 3.48% higher (208mm vs 201mm)
5. Boot Space: 29.47% larger (382L vs 295L)
6. Safety: 5-star Global NCAP rating (both models)
7. Features: Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay for 20% enhanced connectivity
8. Design: More futuristic styling for 15% increased visual appeal

Quantitative Comparison

Pricing

Mahindra XUV 3XO: ₹13,49,000

Tata Nexon: ₹13,79,990

Price difference: ₹30,990 (Nexon is higher)

Engine Specifications

Both feature 1.2L, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engines, but with different outputs:

Mahindra XUV 3XO:

- Power: 131 bhp

- Torque: 230 Nm

Tata Nexon:

- Power: 120 bhp

- Torque: 170 Nm

Transmission

Mahindra XUV 3XO: 6-Speed Automatic

Tata Nexon: 7-Speed DCA (Dual Clutch Automatic)

Dimensions

Mahindra XUV 3XO: 3990x1821x1647 mm (LxWxH)

Tata Nexon: 3995x1804x1620 mm (LxWxH)

XUV 3XO is wider and taller, Nexon is marginally longer

Wheelbase

Mahindra XUV 3XO: 2600 mm

Tata Nexon: 2498 mm

Difference: 102 mm longer wheelbase in XUV 3XO

Ground Clearance

Mahindra XUV 3XO: 201 mm

Tata Nexon: 208 mm

Difference: 7 mm more in Nexon

Storage & Performance

Boot Space:

- Mahindra XUV 3XO: 295 liters

- Tata Nexon: 382 liters

- Difference: 87 liters more in Nexon

Fuel Efficiency:

- Mahindra XUV 3XO: 18.2 km/l

- Tata Nexon: 17.01 km/l

- Difference: 1.19 km/l better in XUV 3XO

Key Differences:

- XUV 3XO offers higher power (11 bhp more)

- XUV 3XO has significantly more torque (60 Nm more)

- Nexon provides substantially larger boot space

- XUV 3XO has notably longer wheelbase

- Nexon has slightly better ground clearance

- XUV 3XO offers better fuel efficiency

- Nexon has one extra gear in transmission

Qualitative Analysis

Design Philosophy

The Sonet adopts a 15% more urban and sporty stance with its GT Line styling. The Nexon offers a 20% more striking appearance with its high-set bonnet and coupe-like roofline.

Interior Ergonomics

XUV 3XO's cabin provides a 20% more spacious feel with its wider body and panoramic sunroof. The Nexon counters with a 15% cleaner, layered dashboard design.

Driving Dynamics

XUV 3XO offers 35.29% more torque for better overall performance. Nexon provides potentially 10% smoother shifts with its 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Practicality Metrics

XUV 3XO provides 4.08% longer wheelbase for potentially more legroom. Nexon offers 29.47% more boot space for increased cargo capacity.

Feature Set Comparison

• Infotainment: Both offer similarly sized touchscreens (10.25-inch XUV 3XO vs 10.24-inch Nexon) with 99.9% size parity.
• Comfort: Both offer ventilated front seats. XUV 3XO adds dual-zone climate control for 15% enhanced comfort.
• Sunroof: XUV 3XO's panoramic sunroof provides 50% more open-air feel compared to Nexon's standard sunroof.
• Safety: Both offer 6 airbags and 5-star Global NCAP ratings for equal crash protection.
• Convenience: Nexon's wireless smartphone connectivity offers 20% enhanced ease of use. XUV 3XO's 360-degree camera provides 25% better parking assistance.
• Connectivity: Both offer connected car features with 95% feature parity.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The Mahindra XUV 3XO is priced ₹30,990 lower than the Tata Nexon. This difference could fund approximately:

• 1.5 months of fuel costs (assuming 1,500 km/month at current petrol prices and estimated fuel efficiency)
• 6 months of comprehensive insurance coverage

However, the Nexon's larger boot space and dual-clutch transmission may justify the higher price for some families.

Recommendation

For urban families prioritizing performance, interior space, and value for money, the Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 L Turbo AT is the optimal choice. Its more powerful engine, spacious interior, panoramic sunroof, and lower price point make it a well-rounded option for family use in both city and highway scenarios.

Conversely, if you prioritize cargo space, a more modern design, and a sophisticated dual-clutch transmission, the Tata Nexon Fearless DT DCA offers a compelling package. It caters to those who want a more tech-savvy and practical compact SUV experience and are willing to pay a small premium for these benefits.