Given the rise of CNG demand among buyers, Mahindra is reportedly gearing up to launch the XUV 3XO with this greener fuel alternative. With its launch, the SUV will have one of the most diverse powertrain lineups, giving tough fight to the Tata Nexon, which is currently being offered in all petrol, diesel, CNG and electric versions.
For those unaware, Mahindra used to offer a CNG powertrain with the now-discontinued Logan and KUV100 Trip. The reintroduction of CNG will help the brand benefit under the upcoming CAFE 3 norms, as a major chunk of its sales comes from the diesel models.
Currently, Mahindra offers the XUV 3XO with two petrol and one diesel engine options. These include a 111PS 1.2-litre MPFi turbo-petrol engine, a 130PS 1.2-litre T-GDI turbocharged petrol, and a 117PS 1.5-litre diesel engine. Of these, the CNG kit is expected to be offered with the MPFi turbo-petrol mill. With this addition, the XUV 3XO will become the second model in its segment to offer a CNG powertrain, paired with a turbocharged petrol engine.
Related: Mahindra XUV 3XO EV Variants Explained
Likely To Use A Dual-Cylinder CNG Kit?
The XUV 3XO has a relatively smaller cargo space of just 295 litres. Hence, installing a traditional single-cylinder CNG tank won’t make much sense. We expect Mahindra to go for either a dual-cylinder setup, similar to the Nexon or an underbody tank similar to the Victoris.
Launch Expected By Year-end
While Mahindra is yet to announce the launch timeline, we expect the XUV 3XO CNG to arrive by late 2026 or in early 2027. Once launched, it is likely to command a premium of around Rs 70,000 over its standard counterpart. For reference, the model currently retails between Rs 7.54 – 14.88 lakh (ex-showroom) and rivals the likes of Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger.
