Mahindra is expanding the powertrain lineup for its sub-4m SUV with the upcoming introduction of a factory-fitted CNG option. Ahead of its scheduled debut on October 15, fresh spy photographs have emerged showing the vehicle inside and out, highlighting its underfloor storage design. This follows an official teaser released by the manufacturer.
Underfloor Twin-Cylinder Layout And Cabin Updates
The primary highlight of the upcoming variant is its pair of CNG cylinders positioned underneath the boot floor. Both tanks are placed side by side and fastened using metal straps, leaving the valves and connecting pipes visible. This configuration mirrors the layout seen in the Nexon i-CNG, enabling luggage storage directly above the cylinder compartment for enhanced boot usability compared to a conventional single-cylinder setup. Precise cylinder capacity and resulting boot volume have not been disclosed.
Inside the cabin, a dedicated CNG/PETROL switch is located beneath the driver-side air conditioning vent, directly beside the headlamp leveling control. The interior retains the standard light-toned lower dashboard and gloss-black surrounds around the vent. Exterior styling remains identical to standard versions, with the spied test vehicle featuring dual-tone alloy wheels, turn indicator-integrated ORVMs, and standard headlamps with DRLs.
While Mahindra's teaser hinted at a panoramic sunroof for premium trims, the spy photographs display a single-pane sunroof version. In the regular lineup, single-pane units are assigned to trims like the REVX M(O), whereas panoramic roofs are reserved for versions such as the REVX Edge (O).
Expected Specifications And Pricing
Performance-wise, the vehicle is anticipated to employ the 1.2-litre turbocharged MPFI petrol engine. In standard petrol configuration, this motor generates 110 bhp (or 111hp in alternate reports) and 200 Nm of torque. Reports differ slightly on direct-injection usage; the petrol range also features a direct-injection unit producing 131hp and 230Nm, though the MPFI unit is expected for the CNG variant to keep costs in check. Transmission choices remain unconfirmed, though manual variants appear in spy frames, while standard petrol models offer 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearboxes. CNG-mode output figures and certified fuel efficiency remain awaited.
| Variant / Model | Price Range | Engine Details |
|---|---|---|
| XUV 3XO (Overall Range) | Rs 7.79 lakh to Rs 15.04 lakh (ex-showroom) | 1.2L MPFI Turbo (110/111hp, 200Nm) & DI Turbo (131hp, 230Nm) |
Pricing for the CNG derivative is anticipated to start below Rs 10 lakh, though it is expected to cost more than equivalent petrol-only configurations. The expanded fuel range aims to attract consumers seeking reduced running expenditures during the festive season. The broader model series, inclusive of electric iterations, achieved 8,302 sales units in August 2026, marking a 50.37% year-on-year increase. Competitors in the market will comprise the Maruti Brezza CNG and Tata Nexon CNG.