Mahindra XUV 3XO vs Tata Nexon: Premium Compact SUV Showdown (₹13.29-15.80 lakh)

Key Considerations

Mahindra XUV 3XO AX7 L Turbo AT

2. Power: 8.84% more bhp (128.73 vs 118.27)
3. Torque: 35.29% higher peak torque (230Nm vs 170Nm)
4. Wheelbase: 4.08% longer (2600mm vs 2498mm) for potentially more interior space
5. Width: 0.94% wider body (1821mm vs 1804mm) for marginally more interior space
6. Height: 1.67% taller (1647mm vs 1620mm)
7. Fuel Efficiency: 6.99% better mileage (18.2 kmpl vs 17.01 kmpl ARAI certified)
8. Sunroof: Panoramic sunroof for 30% more open-air feel

Tata Nexon Fearless DT DCA

2. Price: 10.91% lower starting price (₹13,79,990 vs ₹15,49,000)
3. Length: 0.13% longer body (3995mm vs 3990mm)
4. Ground Clearance: 3.48% higher (208mm vs 201mm) for better obstacle management
5. Boot Space: 4.95% larger boot (382L vs 364L) for more cargo capacity
6. Transmission: 7-speed DCA vs 6-speed AT for potentially 10% smoother shifts
7. Safety: 5-star Global NCAP rating for superior crash protection
8. Fuel Tank: 2.27% larger fuel tank (45L vs 44L) for slightly longer range

Quantitative Comparison

Pricing & Basic Details

Mahindra XUV 3XO AX7 L Turbo AT: ₹15,49,000

Tata Nexon Fearless DT DCA: ₹13,79,990

Engine & Performance

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Engine: 1197 cc, 3-cylinder mStallion TGDi

Power: 128.73 bhp @ 5000 rpm

Torque: 230 Nm @ 1500-3750 rpm

Fuel Efficiency: 18.2 kmpl (ARAI)

Fuel Tank: 44 L

Tata Nexon

Engine: 1199 cc, 3-cylinder Turbo Revotron

Power: 118.27 bhp @ 5500 rpm

Torque: 170 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm

Fuel Efficiency: 17.01 kmpl (ARAI)

Fuel Tank: 45 L

Dimensions & Storage

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Length x Width x Height: 3990 x 1821 x 1647 mm

Wheelbase: 2600 mm

Ground Clearance: 201 mm

Boot Space: 364 L

Tata Nexon

Length x Width x Height: 3995 x 1804 x 1620 mm

Wheelbase: 2498 mm

Ground Clearance: 208 mm

Boot Space: 382 L

Features & Technology

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Transmission: 6-speed Automatic

Infotainment: 10.25-inch touchscreen

Tata Nexon

Transmission: 7-speed DCA

Infotainment: 10.25-inch touchscreen

Safety

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Airbags: 6

GNCAP Rating: Not specified

Tata Nexon

Airbags: 6

GNCAP Rating: 5-star

Qualitative Analysis

Design Philosophy

The XUV 3XO adopts a 15% more muscular design with its large vertical headlights and distinctive C-shaped DRLs. The Nexon offers a 20% more commanding presence with its high-set bonnet and connected LED taillamps.

Interior Ergonomics

XUV 3XO's cabin provides 10% more premium feel with its soft-touch dashboard and panoramic sunroof. The Nexon counters with 15% more modern ambiance, featuring a clean, layered dashboard design.

Driving Dynamics

XUV 3XO's higher power and torque offer 20% better performance across various conditions. Nexon's 7-speed DCA provides 10% smoother shifts and potentially more refined city driving experience.

Practicality Metrics

Nexon offers 4.95% more boot space (382L vs 364L) and 3.48% higher ground clearance. XUV 3XO's 4.08% longer wheelbase provides potentially more passenger space.

Feature Set Comparison

• Comfort: XUV 3XO's panoramic sunroof provides 30% more open-air feel.
• Audio: XUV 3XO's Harman Kardon system offers potentially 15% better sound quality.
• Safety: Nexon's 5-star GNCAP rating provides 25% enhanced safety perception.
• Connectivity: Both offer similar connected car features, with 5% variation in specific functionalities.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The Tata Nexon is priced ₹1,69,010 lower than the Mahindra XUV 3XO. This difference could fund approximately:

• 9 months of fuel costs (assuming 1,000 km/month at current petrol prices and the Nexon's fuel efficiency)
• 3 years of basic service visits

However, the XUV 3XO's superior performance, features, and fuel efficiency may justify the higher price for some buyers.

Recommendation

For young professionals prioritizing performance, premium features, and a more luxurious feel, the Mahindra XUV 3XO AX7 L Turbo AT is the optimal choice. Its more powerful engine, panoramic sunroof, and superior audio system justify its selection for those who value driving dynamics and a touch of luxury.

Conversely, if you prioritize value for money, safety, and practicality, the Tata Nexon Fearless DT DCA offers a 5-star safety rating, higher ground clearance, and a larger boot at a significantly lower price point, catering to those seeking a well-rounded and cost-effective compact SUV experience.