Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Mahindra has launched the XUV 3XO ZNG, the CNG-powered version of its compact SUV, in India at a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The new variant combines a turbocharged petrol engine with a factory-fitted CNG system and has a claimed fuel efficiency of 24.7km/kg. Mahindra says the SUV delivers identical power and torque figures in both CNG and petrol modes, positioning it as an option for buyers seeking lower running costs without compromising on performance.
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Test drives for the XUV 3XO ZNG will begin on October 15, 2026, while bookings and customer deliveries are scheduled to open on October 20, 2026. The CNG version will be offered in four variants.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG fuel efficiency
The Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG has a certified fuel efficiency of 24.7km/kg in CNG mode. This figure is based on the manufacturer’s certified efficiency claim; actual mileage may vary depending on traffic, driving style, road conditions, passenger load and air-conditioning usage.
The claimed efficiency allows the SUV to combine the lower running costs associated with CNG with the performance of a turbocharged engine. Mahindra has also equipped it with average and instantaneous fuel economy displays, allowing drivers to monitor consumption while driving.
The vehicle supports both CNG and petrol operation, with the system automatically switching to petrol when the CNG supply runs low. An NGV fast-filling valve is also provided to make refuelling more convenient.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG engine and performance
The XUV 3XO ZNG uses Mahindra’s 1.2-litre mStallion turbocharged, multi-point fuel-injection petrol engine, adapted to run on both CNG and petrol. The powertrain produces 114.5bhp and 200Nm of torque in either fuel mode.
Mahindra claims that the SUV offers the highest torque among CNG passenger vehicles in India, with the maximum 200Nm available between 1,500rpm and 3,500rpm. Revised turbocharger calibration and engine control unit (ECU) mapping help maintain the same power and torque output regardless of the selected fuel.
The SUV can accelerate from 0-60km/h in 4.9 seconds and from 0-100km/h in 11.8 seconds while running on CNG, according to the manufacturer’s claims. A six-speed manual gearbox handles transmission duties.
The powertrain also uses a 10-bar CNG injection pressure system, which Mahindra describes as a first-in-segment technology. It is designed to support responsive performance and efficient fuel delivery.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG price and variants
The XUV 3XO ZNG is available in four variants, with prices starting at Rs 9.99 lakh and going up to Rs 12.27 lakh (ex-showroom).
| Variant | Price (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| MX Edge ZNG | Rs 9.99 lakh |
| RevX Edge (O) ZNG | Rs 10.79 lakh |
| AX5 ZNG | Rs 11.19 lakh |
| RevX A ZNG | Rs 12.27 lakh |
Bookings will open on October 20, 2026, through authorised Mahindra dealerships and the company’s official website. Test drives begin on October 15, with deliveries scheduled to commence from October 20.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG boot space and practicality
One of the key highlights of the XUV 3XO ZNG is its twin-cylinder CNG storage arrangement. Instead of occupying a large portion of the luggage compartment with a conventional single-cylinder setup, the two cylinders are packaged beneath the luggage area.
This arrangement allows the SUV to retain a flat loading floor and offers 270 litres of usable boot space. The spare wheel is mounted underneath the vehicle, helping preserve luggage-carrying capacity.
The dual-fuel system also provides flexibility for longer journeys, with petrol operation available when CNG is depleted. This reduces the need to rely exclusively on CNG availability along a route.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG features
The XUV 3XO ZNG retains the compact SUV’s existing design and offers a range of comfort, convenience and technology features, depending on the variant.
Even the entry-level version gets a 26.03cm HD touchscreen, cruise control, rear AC vents and a 60:40 split-folding rear seat. Higher variants offer additional equipment, including twin 26.03cm screens, a Skyroof, Dolby Atmos audio, black leatherette upholstery, a dual-tone roof and R16 black-painted alloy wheels.
Exterior styling elements vary by trim and include a body-coloured or gunmetal grey grille. The CNG version also receives a distinctive ZNG badge.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG safety features
Safety equipment is standard across all four variants. The XUV 3XO ZNG gets six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and ISOFIX child-seat mounts, along with dedicated provisions for CNG operation.
The SUV features an integrated gas-leak detection system that can detect a leak and automatically switch the engine to petrol mode. Mahindra says the vehicle has been engineered with a five-star safety rating in mind.
The standard XUV 3XO has already received a five-star Bharat NCAP rating for both Adult Occupant Protection and Child Occupant Protection. However, this rating should not automatically be treated as a separate, independently confirmed rating for the CNG version.
Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG rivals
The XUV 3XO ZNG enters the factory-fitted CNG compact SUV segment, where it will compete with models such as the Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG and Tata Nexon iCNG.
Its key differentiators include a turbocharged engine, a claimed 200Nm of torque in CNG mode, a six-speed manual gearbox and the dual-cylinder storage system designed to preserve boot space. The claimed fuel efficiency of 24.7km/kg will be a key consideration for buyers comparing running costs with rival CNG SUVs.
With the XUV 3XO ZNG, Mahindra is extending its compact SUV range to include a factory-fitted CNG option alongside petrol, diesel and electric powertrains. The new variant aims to appeal to customers looking for a feature-rich SUV with the potential for lower fuel expenses, while retaining the performance and practicality associated with the XUV 3XO.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
