The Mahindra XUV 3XO is the latest entrant in the sub-4m SUV space, which now comes with a factory-fitted CNG option, positioning it against the Tata Nexon CNG and Maruti Brezza CNG. While all three SUVs offer the convenience of a factory-fitted CNG kit, they differ in terms of pricing, performance, features, and practicality. So, if you’re in the market for a fuel-efficient, CNG-powered SUV, here’s how the three compare and which one could be the right choice for you.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Tata Nexon CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG: Specs and Mileage
| Model | Mahindra XUV 3XO | Maruti Brezza | Tata Nexon |
| Engine | 1.2-litre, 3-cyl, MPFi, turbocharged petrol with CNG | 1.5-litre, 4-cyl, naturally aspirated petrol with CNG | 1.2-litre, 3-cyl, turbocharged petrol with CNG |
| Max Power | 111hp (in both petrol and CNG modes) | 101hp (petrol) 88hp (CNG) | 120hp (petrol) 100hp (CNG) |
| Peak Torque | 200Nm (in both petrol and CNG modes) | 137Nm (petrol) 122Nm (CNG) | 170Nm (in both petrol and CNG modes) |
| Transmission Options | 6-speed manual | 5-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
| Claimed CNG Mileage (Fuel Efficiency) | 24.7 km/kg | 25.5 km/kg | 24 km/kg |
| CNG Tank Capacity and Type | 60 litres (dual-tank setup) | 55 litres (single underbody tank setup) | 60 litres (dual-tank setup) |
- While the XUV 3XO and Nexon use a 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, the Brezza gets a 4-cylinder naturally aspirated unit.
- The XUV 3XO has a clear performance advantage in CNG mode, as it produces identical outputs of 111hp and 200 Nm in both petrol and CNG modes. Mahindra claims this has been achieved by optimising turbocharger calibration and ECU mapping. However, the Nexon offers slightly more power output when used in petrol mode.
- Both the XUV 3XO CNG and Nexon CNG also get a 6-speed manual gearbox, compared with the Brezza’s 5-speed unit.
- Neither of them is available with an automatic transmission option.
- In terms of fuel efficiency, the Brezza, with its relaxed naturally aspirated engine, has the upper hand, claiming the highest ARAI-rated mileage figure.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Tata Nexon CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG – Dimensions
| Parameters | Mahindra XUV 3XO | Tata Nexon CNG | Maruti Brezza CNG |
| Length | 3,990 mm | 3,995 mm | 3,995 mm |
| Width | 1,821 mm | 1,804 mm | 1,790 mm |
| Height | 1,647 mm | 1,620 mm | 1,685 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | 2,498 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Boot Space | 270 litres | 321 litres | ≈ 328 litres |
- Being sub-4m SUVs, all the models have nearly identical lengths. However, the XUV 3XO is slightly wider and has a longer wheelbase than the other two offerings, which should result in more legroom and shoulder space inside the cabin.
- Thanks to the underbody tank arrangement, the Brezza holds an advantage when it comes to boot space.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Tata Nexon CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG – Features
| Common | Additional Features In XUV 3XO CNG | Additional Features In Brezza CNG | Additional Features In Nexon CNG |
| – LED projector headlamps – LED fog lamps – LED DRLs – LED taillights – 16-inch alloy wheels – Roof rails – Sharkfin antenna – Indicators on side mirrors – Dual-tone cabin – Rear parcel tray – Touchscreen infotainment system – Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – OTA updates support – 6 speakers – Electric sunroof – Height adjustable driver’s seat – Auto AC – Rear AC vents – Power adjustable & foldable side mirrors – Rear centre armrest – Adjustable headrests – Push button start/stop – Air purifier – 6 airbags – Electronic stability control – Hill hold assist – Reverse parking sensors – Reversing camera – ISOFIX anchors – Day/night IRVM – Rear defogger – 60:40 flip & fold rear seat | – Blacked-out finish for alloys – Panoramic sunroof – Steering modes (segment-first) – Front centre armrest – Bigger touchscreen infotainment system – Dolby Atmos sound system (segment-first) – Digital driver’s display – Automatic headlamps – Rain-sensing wipers – Black leatherette seats – Leather-wrapped steering wheel – Dual-zone climate control (segment-first) – Tyre pressure monitoring system – Rear wiper & washer – Cruise control – Spare wheel | – Blacked-out finish for alloys – ARKAMYS tuned sound system | – 360-degree camera with blind-view monitor – Front parking sensors – Welcome & goodbye animation on the DRLs and tail lights – Automatic headlamps – Cornering function – Rain-sensing wipers – Ventilated front seats – Two-spoke steering with illuminated Tata logo – Leatherette seats – Leather-wrapped steering wheel – Bigger touchscreen – JBL sound system – Digital driver’s display – Panoramic sunroof – Auto-dimming IRVM – Cooled glovebox – Front centre armrest – Wireless charger – Height-adjustable co-driver seat – Tyre pressure monitoring system – Rear wiper & washer – Cruise control – Spare wheel |
As is clear from the above tables, the Nexon CNG and XUV 3XO CNG are equipped with a wide range of premium and comfort-oriented features, making them better suited for those seeking a more upmarket experience in their daily drives. On the other hand, the Maruti Brezza CNG takes a more practical approach, focusing essentially on useful features that make everyday driving more convenient.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Tata Nexon CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG – Price
| Model | Price Range (Ex-Showroom) |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | Rs 8.99 lakh to Rs 12.27 lakh |
| Tata Nexon CNG | Rs 8.35 lakh to Rs 13.72 lakh (including CAMO, Dark and Red Dark Editions) |
| Maruti Brezza CNG | Rs 9.40 lakh to Rs 11.76 lakh |
Author’s Take
To sum up the above findings, the newly launched XUV 3XO CNG stands out with its turbocharged engine and strong performance figures, making it a good option for those who don’t want to compromise much on performance while seeking the fuel efficiency benefits of CNG. Similarly, the Nexon CNG also offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, while providing a feature-rich premium cabin experience. Lastly, the Brezza CNG follows a practical approach for everyday usability, long-term reliability and low maintenance. However, due to its larger engine displacement, it attracts higher taxes, bringing its price closer to those of its rivals, despite offering fewer features.
So which SUV should you buy among these? Well, your choice should largely depend on your priorities. If performance and features are high on your priority list, the XUV 3XO CNG and Nexon CNG are worth considering. But if you prefer a reliable, no-nonsense, practical SUV for your daily commutes, the Brezza CNG could be the better fit.
