Mahindra TUV300 - First Look Review Of A Not So Compact SUV

When Mahindra launched the TUV300 in 2015, everyone had their eyes set on the car. Well, not only because of it's sheer size but it was launched at an attractive price of just Rs 6.90 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi. Also, because of its tall-boy stance, the 6-seater didn't look like it is just 3,995 mm in length. In this first look review of Mahindra TUV300, we will tell you all about its engines, facelifts, styling, features and lastly our verdict as to what we think about this SUV.

What's it really?
When Mahindra launched the TUV300, it didn't have any direct rival even though its length justified the compact SUV segment. It was because of its huge size and the macho look, people considered it as a real SUV. Well of course, since it replaced the uglier looking Quanto with its rock-solid looks and also being a 7-seater added to its advantage.

Mahindra TUV300 Dimensions and Specs

Mahindra TUV300 Engine and Transmission

When Mahindra first launched the TUV300 then it came with a 1.5L twin-scroll turbocharged diesel engine which made 83 bhp with a peak torque of 230 Nm. Not only with the dimensions but also with the smaller engine it attracted benefits to keep the costs low and qualify itself as a small car.

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However, that came with its disadvantages as the owners complained it to be a sluggish SUV. Like when cruising on highways, it just won't take any responsibility to juice up its horses. This engine also came with an AMT gearbox which was a better option for those who are looking for a macho SUV but also looking for a comfortable drive.

In 2019, Mahindra launched a facelifted version of the same to improve its sales. It came with tweaked styling and better engine option. A BS4 tuned 1.5L which made 100 bhp paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The older 84 bhp one was discontinued and so was the AMT gearbox it used to come with.

Interiors, Features and Safety on the Facelifted model

When the TUV300 facelift was introduced, it oozed the dominating Mahindra vibe in the SUV department. The facelifted model now became more agile than the pre-lift model. On the outside, it featured a new grille, smoked headlights with LED DRLs, skid plate, X-shaped wheel cover, new colour schemes with dual-tone as an option and updated alloy wheel colour that is now finished in grey.

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On the inside, the SUV sees a touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, GPS navigation, reverse camera, steering mounted controls, beige and black interiors, front seat armrest and among others.

This facelifted TUV300 now comes with standard safety features like dual-front airbags, ABS, high-speed alert system and front seat belt reminder across all variants. In the pre-lift model, these options were on a paid basis only.

Prices and Competition

The prices mentioned above are of the facelifted variant. It fetched from Rs 8.38 lakh to Rs 10.40 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi. Mahindra TUV300 never had a direct competition but if the prices were concerned then it surely locked horns with Ford Ecosport, Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza.