Mahindra & Mahindra is all set to launch the CNG incarnation of its popular sub-4-meter SUV XUV 3XO in the Indian market. According to the official teaser released by the company, the new Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG will debut in India on October 15, 2026. Currently, this SUV is available in petrol, diesel and all-electric (EV) powertrains. Now with the addition of the CNG kit, it will join the select vehicles in its segment sold with four different powertrain options (Petrol, Diesel, EV and CNG). It is going to be a great option for middle-class buyers looking for affordable running costs and strong road presence of an SUV during the festive season. Engine and Performance: Factory-fitted kit can be available with 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. According to auto experts and reports, Mahindra's 1.2-litre mStallion TCMPFi 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine can be given in the CNG variant of XUV 3XO. Power Output: In petrol mode, this engine generates power of 111 PS and torque of 200 Nm. However, a typical drop of 10 to 15 percent can be seen in its power and torque output when running on CNG mode. Gearbox: Initially it is likely to be offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. Mileage: Compared to the petrol model, the CNG variant is expected to get a better fuel average of 25 to 27 km/kg. Boot space challenge: Will Mahindra adopt twin-cylinder technology? Installing a CNG tank has always been a challenge for boot space in the sub-compact SUV segment. The XUV 3XO already has limited boot space available. In such a situation, the eyes of the auto industry are on whether Mahindra fits the traditional single large cylinder in it or uses modern twin-cylinder technology like Tata Motors. The twin-cylinder layout sees the two smaller cylinders arranged under the boot floor, safely preserving over 200 liters of useful luggage space above. Interior and Safety: No compromise with premium features Mahindra can also offer CNG option in mid-level and top-end trims (like MX3, AX5) instead of limiting its XUV 3XO to only the base variant. The main features available in it can be as follows: Infotainment and display: 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. Cabin Comfort: Rear AC vents, dual-zone climate control, steering mounted controls and sunroof. Safety Standard: 6 airbags (standard), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), all-4 disc brakes, hill hold assist and rear parking camera. Possible price and which vehicles will compete directly? Price: Auto analysts estimate that the CNG variants of the XUV 3XO could be around ₹90,000 to ₹1,00,000 costlier than their respective regular petrol models. Its starting ex-showroom price is likely to be around ₹ 8.80 lakh to ₹ 9.20 lakh. Competition: After its launch, it will compete directly with the segment leader Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG and the recently launched Tata Nexon i-CNG in the Indian market.
