The Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG takes on the Tata Nexon iCNG and the Maruti Brezza CNG in the CNG compact SUV space. Priced from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 12.27 lakh (ex-showroom), it carries a premium of Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.2 lakh over the corresponding petrol versions. Before signing on the dotted line, here are the key strengths and weaknesses of this Mahindra SUV.

Reasons to buy the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG

Strong performance on CNG

The XUV 3XO CNG loses none of its power when running on gas

The 1.2-litre MPFI (multi-point fuel-injected) turbo-petrol engine of the XUV 3XO CNG is the same unit found in the lower and mid-spec petrol trims. Here it develops 111hp and 200Nm in both petrol and CNG modes. While there’s some turbo lag below 2,000rpm, the engine pulls eagerly once it crosses that mark. This unit is also notable for its refinement and tractability, rarely requiring one to drop down to first gear, for going over speed breakers, for example.

Switching between petrol and CNG is seamless as well, and few would be able to tell which fuel the XUV 3XO ZNG is running on. While we’re yet to test it, Mahindra claims a mileage of 24.7km/kg for this compact SUV, translating to a theoretical range of 247km on CNG.

Comfy ride and tidy handling

Mahindra has retuned the suspension to accommodate the extra heft of the CNG kit

The CNG hardware adds around 100kg to the XUV 3XO’s kerb weight, with the majority of it being over the rear axle. Mahindra has reworked the suspension to compensate for this heft. The result is a slightly firm ride but one that deals with bad roads quite well.

Adding to the overall comfort here are the 16-inch wheels wrapped with high-profile tyres. These manage to cushion the cabin from sharp bumps. The XUV 3XO CNG rides better than most cars in its segment. What’s good is that this ride comfort doesn’t come at the cost of sloppy handling. In fact, this Mahindra SUV feels tight and planted around corners. The steering is direct and doesn’t require much effort, with drivers being offered three steering modes for flexibility.

Upmarket cabin

This cabin is just as plush as that of the petrol and diesel versions

A CNG switch next to the steering wheel aside, the cabin of the XUV 3XO CNG is identical to that of non-CNG versions. While it can’t be had in equally top-end trim levels, the CNG version is available with a dual-tone dashboard, gloss black accents and leatherette upholstery. Overall, there’s a feeling of good build that’s backed by a sense of premiumness. Meanwhile, the rear seat is quite roomy for the class and can accommodate three adults without much fuss.

The top-spec RevX A trim gets twin 10.25-inch screens, a panoramic sunroof and a 6-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos. Mahindra says the CNG version is engineered to match the five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating of other combustion-powered XUV 3XO versions. Standard safety features here include 6 airbags, stability control, ISOFIX anchors and a reversing camera.

Reasons not to buy the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG

Small boot

The twin-tank setup eats into what was already a small boot

The 295-litre boot of the XUV 3XO was already the most compact in the segment. Despite moving the spare wheel under the car’s body and fitting the twin cylinders beneath the boot floor, the XUV 3XO CNG’s boot is even more compromised – offering just 270 litres of cargo space. It’s only its width that allows up to four cabin-sized bags to be stored.

Cabin niggles

The XUV 3XO CNG’s interior isn’t devoid of ergonomic flaws

While the black leatherette seats look sporty, they don’t get a ventilation function. This means that, on a bright sunny day, they will heat up quite quickly. If you’ve a larger build, the front seats of the XUV 3XO CNG will feel lacking in space. Adding to the ergonomic niggles is the steering wheel, which cannot be adjusted for reach, making it harder to find a comfortable driving position. Lastly, not only is the XUV 3XO CNG’s driver footwell cramped, there’s also no dead pedal.

Limited options

Customers get only mid-spec trim levels with the CNG version

The CNG version of the Mahindra XUV 3XO is sold in just four trim levels, all of which are mid-spec options within the broader line-up. This limitation becomes obvious given the lack of a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, or a wireless charging pad – these are available in the Nexon iCNG. There are no fog lamps, either. Another limitation is that the CNG version only comes with a 6-speed manual, which has long throws and a fair amount of clutch pedal travel.