Mahindra XUV300 petrol AMT review: Better than the manual?
What's the story
With increasing competition in the subcompact SUV space, Mahindra could not have chosen a better time to launch the automatic variant of XUV300 (petrol).
However, there is a twist in the tale. The XUV300 petrol comes with an AMT gearbox rather than a conventional torque converter or a DCT gearbox.
So, is the AMT option better than the manual one?
Here's our review.
Exteriors
2021 Mahindra XUV300 petrol AMT: At a glance
The XUV300 has a fairly attractive design with traditional SUV styling, a two-part chrome grille, roof rails, skid plates, and heavy cladding along with 17-inch alloy wheels.
However, apart from the badge at the rear, you can't distinguish the automatic model from its manual counterpart. The only change happens to be two new dual-tone colors which are available with the top-end trim.
Interiors
Inside the cabin
Inside, there are a couple of changes in the form of a new gear lever and the availability of connected car technology.
The BlueSense Plus connected car technology offers 40 features including remote functions, vehicle alerts, and some safety features.
Other than that, you get a 7.0-inch touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, seven airbags, sunroof, a rear-view camera, and a hill assist control system.
Performance
How does it drive?
The XUV300 packs a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol unit which generates 110hp/200Nm. The motor comes mated to an AMT gearbox developed by Magneti Marelli.
For starters, this 6-speed AMT gearbox gets a creep function which is useful in traffic conditions. It also has a manual mode which provides instant acceleration when needed.
However, in drive mode, the shift quality could have been a bit more responsive.
Fuel economy
Mileage and ride quality
One of the advantages of an AMT unit has to be the improved fuel efficiency it provides over conventional automatic gearboxes.
In the city, we got 12-13km/l, which is pretty good. Adopting a light-footed driving technique will yield even better results.
The XUV300 continues to have an impressive ride quality while also being stable at high speeds.
Our verdict
Is it worth your money?
The XUV300 petrol AMT is available at a starting price of Rs. 9.95 lakh, and goes all the way up to Rs. 11.7 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom).
It is a good choice for those who want the convenience of an automatic car, but don't want to spend a lot.
The fact that the XUV300 has a 5-star safety rating, makes it a desirable option.