Mahindra XUV300 Facelift Spotted Testing for the first time in India

A prototype of the Mahindra XUV300 facelift has been caught doing testing rounds for the first time in India (Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu). A rival to the Tata Punch and the upcoming Hyundai Exter, the updated version of the XUV300 is likely to be differently styled and will not mimic the current XUV300 in terms of design. However, the upcoming version will share the underpinnings with the current model. The XUV 300 facelift's styling is speculated to be similar to the XUV700 and the Scorpio N, if we go by some industry reports.

Even though the test mule is heavily camouflaged, the prototype's front profile, including the windscreen and nose, does inform us of it being inspired by three new electric SUV concepts, which were unveiled at the Mahindra Advanced Design Group in the UK in 2022. But, as evidenced by the 'E20 fuel' marking on the rear windshield, the test mule draws power from an internal combustion engine (ICE). In addition, a revamped front and rear end is also likely on the cards. This means that the new car may get a new grille and brand-new headlamp housings. While at the rear, design elements could include a flat tailgate, an LED strip that runs across the full width of the tailgate, a large bumper with integrated reflectors, a number plate housing, and newly designed alloys. A roof-mounted spoiler with brake lights is also expected, once the SUV hits the market. 

Also Read: ADAS Comparison: Honda City vs Mahindra XUV700 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Mercedes-AMG EQS

Mahindra XUV300 Facelift: What else is Expected?

On the inside, Mahindra could offer a new dashboard design, upgraded equipment, or maybe a large infotainment screen, all of which the current XUV300 lacks. New feature additions are also likely.  

Mahindra XUV300 Facelift: Expected Powertrain

The face-lifted version of the Mahindra XUV300 is expected to retain the same engine units - a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, a 1.2-litre T-GDI turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The 1.2-litre turbo-petrol units generate 109bhp and 128bhp, while the diesel unit churns out 115bhp of peak power. On offer with the current Mahindra XUV300 are a 6-speed manual transmission (standard) and a 6-speed AMT transmission. But, it is speculated that the AMT could be replaced with a torque converter when the XUV300 Facelift hits the market. 

Also Read: Mahindra Thar 5-door Spied Testing Ahead of Launch in India; to Rival New Maruti Suzuki Jimny

Mahindra XUV300: Features, Rivals

The Mahindra XUV300 retails between Rs 8.41 lakh and Rs 14.14 lakh (ex-showroom, India). It has secured a 5-star safety rating for adult occupant protection from Global-NCAP. 6 airbags, corner braking control (CBC), ABS with EBD, and Traction Control (TC) ensure the safety of the passengers. Moreover, the car is also equipped with dual-zone climate control, a sizable 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, steering modes, projector headlamps, LED DRLs, and much more. 

The XUV300 has rivals in the form of the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and the Honda WR-V, all of which are sub-4 metres in length.

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