Image Source: Raj Dayma
Mahindra is all prepared to introduce its first CNG SUV based on the XUV 3XO tomorrow. Ahead of the launch, leaked images have revealed its dual-cylinder CNG system which sits beneath the luggage compartment floor. The forthcoming variant will join the existing petrol and diesel versions of the compact SUV alongside the electric XUV 3XO EV. The factory-fitted CNG version will compete directly with the Tata Nexon CNG and Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG.
The photographs show two CNG cylinders mounted side by side and secured with metal retaining straps. The arrangement leaves an additional luggage compartment above the cylinders unlike conventional single-cylinder installations that occupy a substantial portion of the boot. The connecting pipes and valves are also visible in the leaked images. Tata Motors introduced a similar twin-cylinder arrangement on the Nexon CNG and Mahindra has now incorporated the same approach into the XUV 3XO.
The CNG model is expected to feature Mahindra’s 1.2-litre mStallion TCMPFi turbocharged petrol engine. The existing petrol motor churns out 110 hp and 200 Nm of torque and offers six-speed manual and automatic transmission choices. The CNG derivative will likely receive the six-speed manual gearbox initially as seen in the leaked vehicle. Its power and torque figures in CNG mode will be lower than those of the petrol version.
The leaked cabin features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster and fabric upholstery. Other visible equipment includes a three-spoke steering wheel, engine start-stop button and an electric single-pane sunroof. A dedicated switch beneath the driver’s air conditioning vent enables selection between petrol and CNG operation. Meanwhile, Mahindra’s official teaser shows a panoramic sunroof indicating that the new fuel option could extend to multiple variants.
The exterior continues with the familiar XUV 3XO design and features such as LED headlamps, daytime running lights and connected LED tail lamps. The photographed vehicle also features 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, roof rails and a rear spoiler. Mahindra’s teaser previews a REVX-inspired front fascia with a body-coloured panel between the headlamps. Thus, CNG installation is the main technical change over the existing petrol model.
The XUV 3XO measures 3,990 mm long and 1,821 mm wide on a 2,600 mm wheelbase. Its height stands at 1,647 mm including the roof rails. The petrol SUV offers 364 litres of luggage capacity but the CNG cylinders will reduce the already short boot. The existing model also features front and rear disc brakes, McPherson strut front suspension and a rear twist-beam arrangement. The regular XUV 3XO currently starts at Rs. 7.79 lakh (ex-showroom) and the CNG version is expected to command a premium over equivalent petrol variants.
