Competitively priced Mahindra XUV 3X0: 'If I had to buy a car right now, I'd buy this'

Mahindra's XUV 3X0 has landed in South Africa and gets an unusual 9 out of 10 rating from motoring journo Melinda Ferguson.

It's the latest offering in the fast-growing budget crossover segment of the market.

The XUV 3XO is based on Mahindra's XUV 300, but is really like a brand-new car, Ferguson said.

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She loves its 'snazzy' looks, leatherette interior, comfortable rear passenger legroom and Harman Kardon sound system.

When it comes to performance, the XUV 3XO would probably rate as the safest on gravel roads out of all its competitors, Ferguson says.

"On some of the very poor roads to Sun City, the suspension was soaking up the bumps. This car is going to be great on gravel."

Melinda Ferguson, Motoring Journalist

Aside from the car's superior exterior and interior features, Ferguson also highlights the fact that the 3XO boasts a 'proper' six-speed transmission for manual and automatic.

The 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine delivers 82 kW and 200 Nm of torque, a cut above competitors.

The price also makes it stand out, starting at R254 999 for the 1.2 turbo MX2.

"If I had to buy a car right now, I would buy this car."

Melinda Ferguson, Motoring Journalist

Scroll up to listen to Ferguson's review and click here to see the full specs