Key highlights
- Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG launch confirmed for October 15
- To be based on the 1.2-litre MPFI turbo-petrol engine
- It will be the third compact SUV with a CNG powertrain in the segment
Mahindra has been silently working on a new CNG powertrain for the XUV 3Xo for a long time. The brand has now revealed that the XUV 3XO will be launched with the CNG engine on October 15. Upon launch, it will become the third SUV in the segment with a CNG option.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG: What do we know so far?
As per our anticipation, Mahindra will offer the CNG powertrain with the 1.2-litre three-cylinder MPFI turbo-petrol engine. This engine makes 111 bhp with petrol, and this figure is expected to go down by around 20 percent with CNG fuel. However, this engine is known for its punch, and Mahindra offers the petrol version with a six-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The same options could be used for the CNG version as well.
The primary reason behind this engine choice is its simple and reliable build. Since the fuel is directly injected into the intake manifold, MPFI engines are preferred for CNG fuel. However, the most interesting bit will be the CNG fuel tank placement. Currently, the XUV 3XO has the smallest boot in the segment, and if Mahindra places the tank in the boot, it will automatically become its biggest con. The solution to this could be an underbody CNG tank placement, which we anticipate Mahindra will go for.
With that said, the CNG option will expand the engine portfolio of the XUV 3XO. The compact SUV already comes with two turbo petrol engine options, one turbo diesel engine, and an electric powertrain. The addition of CNG will certainly boost the sales of the SUV, especially against rivals like the Maruti Brezza CNG and the Tata Nexon CNG.
With the launch of the CNG engine, the XUV 3XO will become the third SUV with a CNG powertrain in the segment. Currently, only Brezza and Nexon offer the CNG option.
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