Spec comparison: Mahindra XUV300 Vs Honda WR-V

Mahindra is entering a second vehicle in sub-4 SUV category for the third time with the new XUV300. This is, in essence, the Ssangyong Tivoli but within the parameters of the Sub-4 SUV category which takes advantage of the tax benefits offered for such vehicles. We have already driven the car and you can read about that here. The car will be launched in India on 14 February and will be offered in both petrol and diesel.  The car will take on a range of vehicles in the segment and here is how is it will rival the Honda WR-V.

Exterior
 When you compare the Honda WR-V and the Mahindra XUV300 in terms of external appearance, you can see two varied approaches to the same task. The XUV300 with its square lines and upright stance has a slight muscled appearance. With the Honda WR-V, it sticks to the latest philosophy from the Japanese automaker in terms of its range of high riding vehicles. The lines on the WR-V are crossover oriented and thus give the vehicle its signature shape. However, in profile you can still see the lines of the Honda Jazz on which it is based.

Interior and features
This is one of the major places where Mahindra has really put its weight behind the XUV300. The feature list is massive for the top-of-the-line model with multiple segment first features. This includes dual zone climate control with memory function, seven- airbags, steering modes, heated ORVMs and mood lighting.
The WR-V, on the other hand, has most of the segment standard features and this list includes a touchscreen infotainment system, dual front airbags, height adjustment for the driver’s seat and cup holders in the front and rear. Both cars measure out roughly the same in terms of dimensions and offer similar levels of space within but the XUV300 has a higher roofline while the Honda WR-V is wider.

Engine and gearbox
The Mahindra XUV300 is offered with a 1.2-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel. The former produces 110bhp of power at 5000rpm and 200Nm of torque at 2000-3500rpm. The diesel generates 115bhp of power at 3750rpm and 300Nm of torque at 1500-2500rpm and is now the most powerful engine on offer in the segment. Both get a six-speed manual as standard.
The WR-V too is offered with a 1.2-litre petrol producing 89bhp/110Nm while the 1.5-litre diesel produces 100bhp/200Nm. The petrol gets a five-speed manual while the diesel gets a six-speed manual as a part of the package.

Conclusion
The Honda WR-V is priced in the range of Rs 8.82 lakhs to Rs 12.32 lakhs and we expect that the Mahindra XUV300 will also be priced in this same bracket. If the top spec diesel is priced like this, then Mahindra is surely looking at a money spinner on its hands.