WeeklySA_Admin2024 MAHINDRA XUV 3XO: The newcomer boast segment firsts like the panoramic sunroof and dual-zone air-conditioning, as well as a 7-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system
By Ali Mphaki
It is fast becoming more and more difficult not to purchase a new set of wheels if the all-new Mahindra XUV 3XO is anything to go by.
Given the fact that for many the sub-four-metre SUV segment is the new entry point to car ownership, the Mahindra XUV 3XO makes for a compelling case considering its amazingly affordable price tag – set to disrupt the segment.
South Africa is the first country outside of India to welcome the all-new Mahindra XUV 3XO. In India, Mahindra dealers took over 50 000 orders for the new model in the first hour after opening for business on the launch day.
In South Africa, customers can look forward to the new XUV 3XO of which deliveries will start from 3 October 2024.
What is it?
The all-new XUV 3XO sets new benchmarks in the compact sport utility vehicle (C-SUV) segment, with standout design, premium interiors, a truly comfortable ride, cutting-edge technology, thrilling performance and the highest level of safety, says the manufacturer.
“It is very fitting that in our twentieth year of operations in South Africa, we launch this new Authentic SUV, offering advanced technology but at the same time maintaining our value proposition for the South African Customer, says Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa.
Exterior:
The XUV 3XO introduces a bold, athletic silhouette featuring a distinctive front grille and headlamp design with a piano black finish on the grille and LED headlamps, LED Daytime Running Lights and LED fog lamps.
Several unique wheel designs have been penned for the different XUV 3XO models, including stylish 17” diamond-cut alloy wheels on luxury models.
At the rear, the infinity LED tail lamp, which stretches across the rear of the vehicle, emphasises the wide and stable stance of the XUV 3XO.
Interior:
Mahindra also incorporated the feedback from customers across the globe, including South Africa, in its design process. This can clearly be seen in new design features such as the black leatherette interior and the large, expansive floating 10.25” infotainment system that combines with the 10.25” digital cluster.
Its cabin boasts premium interiors with a soft-touch leatherette dashboard that extends to the door trims and leatherette seat upholstery to elevate the sense of sophistication. Leather accents on the steering wheel, gear knob and front armrest further enhance the premium feel. The Sky roof is the largest in its class and there is a 360-degree surround view system with blind view monitoring.
The XUV 3XO is said to boast best-in-class occupant space, which is remarkably generous, comparable even to SUVs a class above. This is complemented by the spacious boot space, which can accommodate up to 364 litres.
Technology:
The first-in-segment features, like a 65 W USB-C charging point and Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, are tailored for tech-savvy users seeking convenience on the go.
Adding to the list, an immersive audio experience is created through a Harman Kardon Premium Audio with a dedicated amplifier and sub-woofer.
Additionally, Level 2 ADAS with 10 features ensures enhanced driving assistance and safety measures. The inclusion of radar technology aids the ability to detect obstacles in challenging weather conditions such as heavy rain or dense fog, thereby offering crucial collision warnings and facilitating Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB).
Drivetrain:
The XUV 3XO is powered by a turbo-petrol engine of 1.2 litres, delivering 82 kW and 200 Nm of torque. Transmission options are either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Prices:
1.2T MX2 6MT (R254 999),
1.2T MX2 6AT (R274 999),
1.2T MX3 6MT (R274 999),
1.2T MX3 6AT (R294 999),
1.2T AX5 6MT (R319 999),
1.2T AX5 6AT (R344 999),
1.2T AX5L 6AT (R374 999) and the
1.2T AX7L 6AT (R404 999).
The MX2 and MX3 versions have a 3-year / 55 000 km service plan, while the AX5 and AX7 versions have a 5-year / 100 000 km service plan. All models come standard with a 5-year / 150 000 km factory warranty (specification levels are model dependent).
Motoring: Briefs
SA CAR SALES CONSOLIDATION
After a strong July, the South African automotive sector experienced a period of consolidation in August 2024, with moderate improvements in both new and used car sales. While new car sales increased by 3.1% compared to August 2023, used cars showed slight month-on-month growth despite a year-on-year decline.
According to AutoTrader, 31,877 used cars were sold in August 2024, down from 34,725 in August 2023, marking an -8.2% year-on-year drop.
However, sales improved slightly compared to July 2024, when 31,707 used cars were sold, reflecting a 1% month-on-month increase. This highlights the resilience of the used car market, even amid broader challenges.
The new passenger car market also saw moderate growth. According to naamsa | The Automotive Business Council, 30,022 new cars were sold in August 2024, up by 891 units (or 3.1%) from the 29,131 sold in August 2023. Month-on-month, however, the new car market remained largely stable, with only a minor change from the 30,048 new cars sold in July 2024.
GOING DOWN, DOWN
Experts said a fifth consecutive fuel price could be on the cards for October, with the current mid-month data indicating that the price could decrease by more than R1 a litre. If this is accurate it would bring the fuel price to below R21 – its lowest level since early 2022.
Economists attribute the predicted drop to the lower international prices of Brent crude oil and a stronger rand. South Africa has faced challenges of increasing fuel prices in the last two years, with the price reaching a high of R25 in October 2023.
Old Mutual Group chief economist Johann Els said the petrol price seems to be headed to a R1.20 to R1.30 decrease in October.
BMW SA WORKERS STRIKE
BMW South Africa has launched an investigation into fraud allegations concerning hundreds of members of its workforce Coming out of the blue, BMW’s Rosslyn plant in Pretoria has been rocked by scandal as hundreds of workers face allegations of medical aid fraud. It has led to a massive strike as workers stand up against management over accusations of criminal behaviour.
In a statement made to CAR Magazine, BMW Group South Africa can confirm a protest action this week outside plant Rosslyn in response to an ongoing Fraud investigation within the BMW Employees Medical Aid Scheme (BEMAS). The automaker added that they are co-operating with law enforcement in their investigation to ensure that the rule of law is upheld.
BMW further adds: BMW Group South Africa will not tolerate any acts of bribery, fraud, or corruption by its employees.
All internal policies and procedures are being followed, and the necessary disciplinary action will be taken for any employee found in transgression of our Disciplinary Code.
So far, according to SABC News, six employees have been arrested, 20 dismissed, and more than 500 are under disciplinary review.
REVERSE GEAR!
LABOUR is poised to backtrack on a complete ban on the sale of new petrol cars by 2030. Ministers are poised to let hybrid motors remain on the market until 2035, amid fears fully electric vehicles are too expensive for many.
It comes after PM Sir Keir Starmer pledged to end the sale of “new cars with internal combustion engines” in the Labour election manifesto.
That would have meant an end to new hybrids such as Nissan’s best-selling Qashqai which uses a petrol or diesel engine alongside a battery.
Concerns over the high cost of EVs, their resale value, range and availability of charging points is likely to see ministers extend their life by five years.
