Latest news with #CheryTiggo4
The Advertiser
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Subaru says it isn't concerned about the influx of cheap Chinese cars
While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from:
The Citizen
06-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
VW drops price on T-Cross base model to take fight to the Chinese
Volkswagen banks on brand's rich local heritage to fend off onslaught from the People's Republic. In February this year Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) announced that were adding two new entry-level derivatives to their top selling T-Cross line-up. A 1.0 TSI 70kW Base fitted with a five-speed manual transmission and a 1.0 TSI 85kW Base with a double clutch setup, priced at R400 700 and R418 200 respectively. Fast forward some five months, and an invite arrived for us to go spend some time with VWSA and get acquainted with the VW T-Cross in the metal this time. A 1.0 TSI 70kW Base was dropped off at The Citizen Motoring's office for us to use for a few weeks and to get to the event as part of an impromptu media launch-type drive. Psychological R400k barrier Now while we expected the spec to be exactly that same, what we did not expect was that VWSA had quietly dropped the price on the 70kW Base model to R399 900. Citing unrelenting market pressure from the Chinese, who are extremely active in this segment, as one of the reasons they wanted the entry level T-Cross to come in under the psychological R400 000 barrier. This makes perfectly good business sense especially when you consider that the VW T-Cross is 100% under fire from the likes of Chery with their Tiggo 4 Pro. Offering seven model derivatives ranging in price from R269 900 to R386 900 it's easy to see why the Chery Tiggo 4 is shooting the lights out. This Chinese offering has in fact now moved up to be South Africa's third best-selling passenger car behind the VW Polo Vivo and Toyota Corolla Cross. The VW T-Cross Base features an 8-inch digital cockpit. Picture: Mark Jones Not flashy, but solid The 1.0 TSI 70 kW Base VW T-Cross comes kitted with the basics like a 8-inch digital cockpit, App-Connect, multi-function steering wheel, 2 USB ports in front, two speakers, central locking, childproof locks on rear doors, interior cloth trim for seats and door trim, air-conditioner, hill assist, 16-inch wheels and a tyre pressure monitoring system. While not flashy in any way, all the controls fall easy to hand, and are easy to use in typical VW fashion. The Chery Tiggo 4 offers 108kW and 210Nm, and the 70kW and 175Nm on tap from the 1.0 TSI Base is never going to feel racy. And it isn't. VWSA claim a 0-100km/h sprint time of 11.5 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h. But what is maybe of more importance is that the claimed fuel consumption number is just 5.9-litres per 100km. And here the Chery Tiggo 4 falls short. ALSO READ: Facelift Volkswagen T-Cross base models finally priced VW T-Cross banks on brand heritage So, while seemingly outgunned on price and spec on paper, VWSA are counting on their legacy, reputation for quality. And on people still having the desire to own a Volkswagen. It's a tough ask in a very price sensitive part of the market. But this fight might pass down to the new locally produced Tengo compact crossover. It will hit the market in 2027 as a more affordable replacement for the overseas sourced T-Cross. The VW T-Cross comes standard with a three-year/120 000km warranty and three-year/45 000km service plan.
7NEWS
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO AX7L review
Will this all-new compact SUV be the best-selling Mahindra in Australia? The Indian industrial giant thinks so, and there are plenty of reasons to suggest the Mahindra XUV 3XO will be a game-changer for the Indian auto brand in this country. The XUV 3XO might be a small SUV but it's a seriously big deal for Mahindra as it looks to grow beyond its traditional agricultural niche and hit the mainstream. Mahinda's smallest and cheapest model so far enters as a wannabe disruptor in one of the largest, most competitive new-vehicle segments in Australia. The 3XO landed its first blow even before it went on sale today (July 4), with an introductory price of $23,490 drive-away for the entry-level variant, knocking off the Chery Tiggo 4 as Australia's cheapest SUV. The move may raise eyebrows and kick off the 3XO's Australian story strongly, but it's up against stiff competition and has a mixed bag of tricks to win over a new legion of buyers for Mahindra. Small SUVs accounted for 17.9 per cent of all SUVs sold in Australia in the first six months of 2025, with more than 100,000 sold, led by the Hyundai Kona, MG ZS and GWM Haval Jolion. Mahindra company says the 3XO will bring first-time buyers to the brand, and that's also the story behind the tongue-twisting name that replaces that of its predecessor, which was sold overseas with XUV 300 badging to sit more neatly with its larger XUV 700 mid-size SUV sibling. According to Mahindra, the name change for the new model represents an aspiration to become a 'CXO' – customers on their 'upgrade journey' as professionals who wish to become a 'chief-x-officer' of some kind. No, we don't quite understand it either. Key customers the automaker is targeting with the 3XO include young women, older empty-nesters (our words, not Mahindra's) and used car shoppers who might be won over by the low price and seven-year warranty. There's a capped price servicing package too, but set the numbers aside: is the 3XO a convincing enough entrant into the small SUV segment to truly shake up the established order? How much does the Mahindra XUV 3XO cost? The XUV 3XO is offered in two model grades, with the AX5L priced at $23,490 drive-away nationally until September 1, 2025, when it will revert to $23,990 drive-away, the same price as the Chery Tiggo 4. There are no equipment options for the entry-level grade, with the higher-spec AX7L commanding a $3000 premium at $26,490 drive-away, and $26,990 drive-away from September 2025. Everest White is the only standard exterior paint colour, and all other finishes cost an extra $495, with the AX7L distinguished by a black roof regardless of colour choice. The eye-catching Citrine Yellow is exclusive to the AXL7, on which it replaces the Stealth Black hue offered for the entry-level AX5L. To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool What is the Mahindra XUV 3XO like on the inside? Roomy and well-equipped. The 3XO is just under four metres long to avoid a higher tax rate in India, but its wheels are stretched to each corner of the vehicle to maximise its unusually long 2600mm wheelbase. For comparison, the Hyundai Kona has the same 2600mm wheelbase, but at 4350mm overall it's 360mm longer than the 3XO. Between the two trim levels, the key differences inside are the leatherette upholstery and larger 'sky roof' sunroof for the AXL7, while the base variant has black cloth and a traditional-size sunroof covering just the front seats. It's also worth mentioning for a vehicle at this price that there are power windows front and rear, plus power-folding exterior mirrors on the AX7L. Both model grades have a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, as well as the same generous headroom up front, with a manual-adjust driver's seat and steering column which could do with more reach adjustment for taller drivers to find a more comfortable driving position. The seats in the AX7L we tested were firm and comfortable but couldn't be described as soft or plush, although the small side bolsters do more than expected to keep you in position around corners. The fit and finish is good, with stitching across the seats, dash and all four doors, pleasant leatherette dash coverings and speaker mesh for the AX7L's Harman Kardon audio system hiding the 3XO's price. Nowhere does the cabin come across as overly cheap or cost-focused, and there's a piano black applique – patterned above the chilled glovebox – on the doors and on the centre stack. The stack's array of physical buttons for the standard climate control is welcome, and although the button fonts and design do look a little dated that's a win for many buyers and a conscious effort not to bury vehicle controls in a touchscreen menu. The 10.25-inch central infotainment touchscreen is identical in size to the full-colour digital instrument cluster, while the steering wheel has buttons which are again a tad dated and require small finger work, but work well nonetheless. The indicator and wiper stalks feel better than the 3XO's price point, so does the textured material on the steering wheel itself. All grades have a wireless smartphone charger, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, and a space under the centre stack for your handset. There's also a small centre console bin, which also provides rear passengers with air vents, a 12V outlet and a USB port. The second row is also roomy, although rear headroom in the AX7L is reduced by the larger 'sky roof' fitted as standard in the top-spec 3XO. The 60:40-split rear bench also has a centre armrest with two cupholders, and there are three top-tether mounts and four ISOFIX anchors for child seats, plus a space-saver spare wheel in the 364-litre boot. To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool What's under the bonnet? There's only one powertrain available in Australia: a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. It delivers 82kW of power and 200Nm of torque, which are not massive numbers, but peak torque – which is more important for driveability – comes in at a low 1500rpm, while the six-speed automatic isn't a jerky dual-clutch or a fuel-saving CVT (continuously variable transmission), but a conventional torque-convertor auto. Combined fuel consumption is 6.5L/100km, which is fairly commendable give the 1392-1410kg weight of each variant, but not fantastically frugal given the low cylinder count and meagre outputs. Simplicity is often key for automakers to keep prices low, but in the case of the 3XO the more powerful petrol and diesel engines offered overseas were ruled out due to the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) emissions legislation introduced in Australia in 2025. To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool How does the Mahindra XUV 3XO drive? The 3XO is a competent, well-sorted small SUV that belies its price from behind the wheel, but is not without a few shortcomings. Pictured: Overseas model shwon Its underpinnings aren't as fresh as the name, dating back to 2015 when the X100 platform was first employed under the SsangYong Tivoli small SUV. The view from the driver's seat is a little different to typical small SUVs, with unconventional proportions including a short, wide bonnet offering a good view from the high driving position. There are clear digital instruments, with several layouts to choose from, with the multimedia screen's wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make for seamless phone mirroring. A key feature includes the ability to transfer the navigation display to take up the full 10.25-inch instrument cluster. The engine is quiet with a pleasing thrum on start-up, followed by a smooth idle, and despite the relatively low 82kW power output, all 200Nm of torque comes on from just 1500rpm and gives the 3XO enough acceleration around town. You can get caught out momentarily by the idle stop/start system, and our test vehicle seemed reluctant to move itself off the mark initially, as if the brakes were binding – even with the auto-hold function off. But the 3XO is stable and sure-footed on the road, while its overall refinement is commendable for the price point. So too is its switchgear, with the indicator and windscreen wiper stalks feeling sturdy enough for a city-centric commuter. There are three driving modes, mischievously named 'Zip', 'Zap' and 'Zoom', selectable via a centre-stack button. Mahindra says they change the engine map – so they should alter throttle response – but on our drive there was no discernible difference between the modes, which said to be for economy (Zip), normal (Zap) and more spirted driving (Zoom). On hilly roads, the six-speed Aisin automatic can take too long to change down a gear, so you often find the engine labouring at below 2000rpm and a decent push of the throttle required can be required to get it back into its sweet spot. Rearward vision is good, with decent-size mirrors aided by side-view cameras mounted in them, instilling the confidence to help make snappy lane changes easy. That's helped by the steering, which has decent weighting – although not a lot of feedback – but a heavy, sticky on-centre feel at speed. Here, though, the lane-keeping system is far too intrusive, making for more work on the highway and becoming a serious pest on winding rural roads as it grabs the wheel from you. The traffic sign recognition system also couldn't always keep up with the ever-changing speed limits and random speed sign positions on our test route. Ride quality on the AX7L's 17-inch 215-section Goodyear tyres is on the firmer side, with the 3XO transmitting everything on the road surface through to the steering wheel, but it was also able to settle reasonably quickly after skipping over bumps, while also taking the edge of larger potholes. The ride may still be a little crashy for some, but the tilt towards a more sporting drive also means the 3XO has reasonably good body control, too. The 3XO is more at home around town – where its target customer is most likely to live – and it's in city driving where the engine has adequate if not judicious power. The parking sensors – which include front as well as rear sensors in the AX7L – going off randomly did take the shine off its otherwise commendable driving experience, however. Parking is a breeze with the 360-degree camera standard in both models, and the light steering – which loses the stickiness mentioned earlier at low speeds – makes it easy to position the vehicle. The adaptive cruise control is easily set using the steering wheel controls, but it's not so smooth in keeping to the speed limit, with a 40km/h inner-city meander seeing it on and off the throttle instead of keeping a smooth pace. To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool What do you get? Two trim levels are available in Australia. 2025 Mahindra 3XO AX5L equipment highlights: 16-inch alloy wheels Space-saver spare Automatic LED headlights with LED daytime running lights Automatic high-beam Rear LED light bar Fixed roof rails Sunroof Keyless entry and push-button engine start Black cloth upholstery Power windows with one-touch auto up/down for driver Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter Height and reach adjustable steering wheel Electric parking brake with auto hold Cooled glovebox Rain-sensing wipers 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto DAB digital radio 2 x front USB outlets 1 x rear USB outlet 1 x rear 12V outlet 6-speaker sound system The AX7L adds: 17-inch alloy wheels Contrasting black exterior roof Front LED fog lights Front parking sensors Black leatherette upholstery Leatherette dash and door trim Larger 'Sky roof' sunroof Auto dimming rear-view mirror 1 x front 65W USB-C outlet 1 x front USB outlet Harman Kardon premium audio with amplifier and sub-woofer Cooled glovebox with illumination To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool Colours Everest White exterior paint is standard, with metallic and premium finishes costing an extra $495. Colours available on the AX5L: Everest White (standard) Tango Red Galaxy Grey Stealth Black The AX5L has black cloth upholstery. Colours available on AX7L: Everest White with Stealth Black roof (standard) Tango Red with Stealth Black roof Galaxy Grey with Stealth Black roof Citrine Yellow with Stealth Black roof The AX7L has black leatherette upholstery. To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool Is the Mahindra XUV 3XO safe? The Mahindra XUV 3XO has not been rated by ANCAP and does not have an official independent safety rating. Standard safety features include: 6 airbags incl. side curtains Autonomous emergency braking Adaptive cruise control with stop/go Blind-spot monitoring Lane-keep assist Lane departure warning Rear parking sensors Surround-view cameras Traffic sign recognition Tyre pressure monitoring Upgrades are on the way in 2026 when new ANCAP test protocols are scheduled for introduction, which Mahindra Australia has confirmed it plans to meet by adding extra equipment which may push the XUV 3XO price up. To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool How much does the Mahindra XUV 3XO cost to run? The XUV 3XO is backed by Mahindra Australia's seven-year, 150,000km warranty, including seven years of roadside assistance. There is also a six-year/85,000km capped price service package for $1994, covering each 15,000km service interval in that period, with an initial service due at 12 months/10,000km. Mahindra claims those service costs are 17 per cent below average for the small SUV segment. To see how the Mahindra XUV 3XO lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool CarExpert's Take on the Mahindra XUV 3XO The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO could be a genuine game-changer for the Indian automaker in Australia. Despite its older underpinnings, it's a clear statement from Mahindra and welcome competition for Chinese brands. The aggressively low pricing shows the company is serious about attracting new buyers and it's backed by generous aftersales backup and similarly low servicing costs. Yet none of this is reflected in the solid overall execution of its design, or the quality of its interior fit and finish. No, the 3XO doesn't set new benchmarks in the way it goes about its business, but despite its budget focus it doesn't skimp on features or driving dynamics like some more expensive SUVs do. It's clear Mahindra could have cut more corners on equipment levels, but instead it made smart spec decisions to avoid creating a superficial price-leader, and ended up with a genuinely strong value proposition. There are drawbacks including its unknown safety credentials, and the fact the 3XO will score equipment updates in 2026 to ensure it achieves a five-star ANCAP rating, potentially making 2025 vehicles less desirable in future. That may not bother many buyers who may be keen to take advantage of rock-bottom introductory pricing that ends on August 31, 2025. But some may find the engine in Australia's XUV 3XO merely adequate – both in terms of performance and economy – and it's certainly not a standout powertrain, even if its Toyota-sourced six-speed auto is a welcome addition. Does a car this cheap have to excel anywhere? Perhaps not, and the 3XO is an otherwise commendable vehicle that will be easy to drive, own and live with for any new-car buyer on a budget. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV 3XO? Let CarExpert find you the best deal here Pros Large cabin for a small SUV Well equipped across the lineup Market-leading price and service package Cons
The Advertiser
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Australia's cheapest SUV could cop price rise due to new safety standards
The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from: The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from: The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from: The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Australia's new cheapest SUV comes from an unexpected brand
The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO will start at $23,490 drive-away nationally, undercutting the Chery Tiggo 4 SUV's $23,990 drive-away price by $500 to become Australia's cheapest SUV. The new benchmark price is for the entry-level 3XO AX5L, with the higher-spec 3XO AX7L priced at $26,490 drive-away. The price advantage is temporary, though, with Mahindra confirming this 'introductory' pricing for the 3XO will run only until August 31, 2025. On September 1, Mahindra will apply the standard drive-away prices of $23,990 to the AX5L and $26,990 to the AX7L. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even then, the Mahindra XUV 3XO will match the Chery Tiggo 4 – if its Chinese rival remains at today's prices – as Australia's cheapest SUV. It's backed by a seven-year/150,000km warranty including roadside assistance, and Mahindra has also announced an additional capped-price servicing package for 3XO customers. It says the servicing price is 17 per cent lower than the average cost for the small SUV segment in Australia, costing a total of $1994 for six years/85,000km of scheduled services. This means an entry-level 3XO AX5L without metallic paint could be purchased, registered and serviced for six years from $25,484. Standard equipment on the 3XO AX5L includes 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone connectivity, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The 3XO AX7L adds 17-inch alloy wheels, contrasting black roof paintwork, larger 'sky roof' sunroof and a Harman Kardon seven-speaker sound system with amp and subwoofer among its additional equipment. You can view a more detailed overview in our price and specs article. Both model grades use a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 82kW/200Nm and a six-speed automatic transmission from Toyota-owned Aisin. They're front-wheel drive, and offer a claimed combined fuel economy figure of 6.5L/100km. The XUV 3XO hasn't yet been tested by ANCAP, with Mahindra Australia planning on making changes to the vehicle to meet new ANCAP criteria set to be introduced in 2026. The vehicles arriving in showrooms this month do have a five-star Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) rating, and come with a surround-view camera, six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition. Mahindra has never before competed in this segment in Australia. The XUV 3XO slots in under the XUV700 mid-size crossover SUV, a rival for the Mitsubishi Outlander, as well as its more rugged, body-on-frame Scorpio. The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO is officially on sale in Australia from July 4, 2025. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from: The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO will start at $23,490 drive-away nationally, undercutting the Chery Tiggo 4 SUV's $23,990 drive-away price by $500 to become Australia's cheapest SUV. The new benchmark price is for the entry-level 3XO AX5L, with the higher-spec 3XO AX7L priced at $26,490 drive-away. The price advantage is temporary, though, with Mahindra confirming this 'introductory' pricing for the 3XO will run only until August 31, 2025. On September 1, Mahindra will apply the standard drive-away prices of $23,990 to the AX5L and $26,990 to the AX7L. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even then, the Mahindra XUV 3XO will match the Chery Tiggo 4 – if its Chinese rival remains at today's prices – as Australia's cheapest SUV. It's backed by a seven-year/150,000km warranty including roadside assistance, and Mahindra has also announced an additional capped-price servicing package for 3XO customers. It says the servicing price is 17 per cent lower than the average cost for the small SUV segment in Australia, costing a total of $1994 for six years/85,000km of scheduled services. This means an entry-level 3XO AX5L without metallic paint could be purchased, registered and serviced for six years from $25,484. Standard equipment on the 3XO AX5L includes 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone connectivity, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The 3XO AX7L adds 17-inch alloy wheels, contrasting black roof paintwork, larger 'sky roof' sunroof and a Harman Kardon seven-speaker sound system with amp and subwoofer among its additional equipment. You can view a more detailed overview in our price and specs article. Both model grades use a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 82kW/200Nm and a six-speed automatic transmission from Toyota-owned Aisin. They're front-wheel drive, and offer a claimed combined fuel economy figure of 6.5L/100km. The XUV 3XO hasn't yet been tested by ANCAP, with Mahindra Australia planning on making changes to the vehicle to meet new ANCAP criteria set to be introduced in 2026. The vehicles arriving in showrooms this month do have a five-star Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) rating, and come with a surround-view camera, six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition. Mahindra has never before competed in this segment in Australia. The XUV 3XO slots in under the XUV700 mid-size crossover SUV, a rival for the Mitsubishi Outlander, as well as its more rugged, body-on-frame Scorpio. The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO is officially on sale in Australia from July 4, 2025. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from: The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO will start at $23,490 drive-away nationally, undercutting the Chery Tiggo 4 SUV's $23,990 drive-away price by $500 to become Australia's cheapest SUV. The new benchmark price is for the entry-level 3XO AX5L, with the higher-spec 3XO AX7L priced at $26,490 drive-away. The price advantage is temporary, though, with Mahindra confirming this 'introductory' pricing for the 3XO will run only until August 31, 2025. On September 1, Mahindra will apply the standard drive-away prices of $23,990 to the AX5L and $26,990 to the AX7L. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even then, the Mahindra XUV 3XO will match the Chery Tiggo 4 – if its Chinese rival remains at today's prices – as Australia's cheapest SUV. It's backed by a seven-year/150,000km warranty including roadside assistance, and Mahindra has also announced an additional capped-price servicing package for 3XO customers. It says the servicing price is 17 per cent lower than the average cost for the small SUV segment in Australia, costing a total of $1994 for six years/85,000km of scheduled services. This means an entry-level 3XO AX5L without metallic paint could be purchased, registered and serviced for six years from $25,484. Standard equipment on the 3XO AX5L includes 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone connectivity, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The 3XO AX7L adds 17-inch alloy wheels, contrasting black roof paintwork, larger 'sky roof' sunroof and a Harman Kardon seven-speaker sound system with amp and subwoofer among its additional equipment. You can view a more detailed overview in our price and specs article. Both model grades use a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 82kW/200Nm and a six-speed automatic transmission from Toyota-owned Aisin. They're front-wheel drive, and offer a claimed combined fuel economy figure of 6.5L/100km. The XUV 3XO hasn't yet been tested by ANCAP, with Mahindra Australia planning on making changes to the vehicle to meet new ANCAP criteria set to be introduced in 2026. The vehicles arriving in showrooms this month do have a five-star Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) rating, and come with a surround-view camera, six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition. Mahindra has never before competed in this segment in Australia. The XUV 3XO slots in under the XUV700 mid-size crossover SUV, a rival for the Mitsubishi Outlander, as well as its more rugged, body-on-frame Scorpio. The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO is officially on sale in Australia from July 4, 2025. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from: The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO will start at $23,490 drive-away nationally, undercutting the Chery Tiggo 4 SUV's $23,990 drive-away price by $500 to become Australia's cheapest SUV. The new benchmark price is for the entry-level 3XO AX5L, with the higher-spec 3XO AX7L priced at $26,490 drive-away. The price advantage is temporary, though, with Mahindra confirming this 'introductory' pricing for the 3XO will run only until August 31, 2025. On September 1, Mahindra will apply the standard drive-away prices of $23,990 to the AX5L and $26,990 to the AX7L. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even then, the Mahindra XUV 3XO will match the Chery Tiggo 4 – if its Chinese rival remains at today's prices – as Australia's cheapest SUV. It's backed by a seven-year/150,000km warranty including roadside assistance, and Mahindra has also announced an additional capped-price servicing package for 3XO customers. It says the servicing price is 17 per cent lower than the average cost for the small SUV segment in Australia, costing a total of $1994 for six years/85,000km of scheduled services. This means an entry-level 3XO AX5L without metallic paint could be purchased, registered and serviced for six years from $25,484. Standard equipment on the 3XO AX5L includes 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone connectivity, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The 3XO AX7L adds 17-inch alloy wheels, contrasting black roof paintwork, larger 'sky roof' sunroof and a Harman Kardon seven-speaker sound system with amp and subwoofer among its additional equipment. You can view a more detailed overview in our price and specs article. Both model grades use a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 82kW/200Nm and a six-speed automatic transmission from Toyota-owned Aisin. They're front-wheel drive, and offer a claimed combined fuel economy figure of 6.5L/100km. The XUV 3XO hasn't yet been tested by ANCAP, with Mahindra Australia planning on making changes to the vehicle to meet new ANCAP criteria set to be introduced in 2026. The vehicles arriving in showrooms this month do have a five-star Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) rating, and come with a surround-view camera, six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition. Mahindra has never before competed in this segment in Australia. The XUV 3XO slots in under the XUV700 mid-size crossover SUV, a rival for the Mitsubishi Outlander, as well as its more rugged, body-on-frame Scorpio. The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO is officially on sale in Australia from July 4, 2025. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from:
