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What happens when you push a $26,490 SUV through a full day of relentless testing across Victoria? In true CarSauce fashion, we found out. The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO has already impressed us with its day-to-day drivability, but in this torture test, we put it through everything Australia could throw at it: icy weather, mountain climbs, rural dirt roads, spirited driving, and hours of crawling traffic-all in a single day.

This isn't just a test of the car. It’s a test of our backsides, patience, and maybe even our friendship. Over 600km and 11 hours, we measured real-world fuel economy, tested comfort, monitored handling under pressure, and asked: can a cheap SUV genuinely go the distance?

Cold Start, Big Expectations

We kicked off the day before sunrise in Melbourne, with the temperature hovering around 4 degrees. With our trip computer reset, tyres checked, and a full tank of 91 RON unleaded, we set out with one goal: to see if the Mahindra XUV 3XO could handle an entire day without needing to refuel, break down, or break us.

The trip began on urban roads in 'Zip' mode, the car’s most economical drive setting. This dampens throttle response and reduces power delivery to maximise efficiency. Early readings weren’t promising, hovering around 10km/L (10L/100km), likely due to a cold engine and city congestion.

However, by the time we reached Melbourne’s outer suburbs and transitioned to 'Zoom' mode, the XUV 3XO began to settle into a rhythm. Despite its modest 82kW output, the XUV 3XO’s 200Nm torque proved more than sufficient for freeway speeds.

Road Comfort and Highway Tech

The XUV 3XO's ride comfort at highway speeds was notably solid for a budget SUV. While the suspension tune is firm, it avoids being harsh. Mahindra’s inclusion of Level 2 ADAS systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and lane centring is impressive at this price, and it worked consistently well throughout our testing. Steering remained stable, and the car stayed confidently in its lane for long stretches without requiring corrections.

Cabin noise was present but not overwhelming. Tyre roar increased on coarse-chip roads, but wind noise was well managed. After 90 minutes on the Hume Freeway, the car reported 14.3km/L (around 6.9L/100km), a strong showing given the morning's traffic and terrain.

Cabin Comfort Over Time

A key goal of this test was to see how the XUV 3XO felt over long distances. After hours in the driver’s seat, we were impressed. The synthetic leather seats (AX7L grade) offered excellent lumbar support, while adjustability and a well-positioned armrest made for a relaxed driving posture. Even after 5 hours, there were no pressure points or signs of fatigue.

The panoramic "Sky Roof" helped create an airy atmosphere, even in grey weather. Storage was ample, with deep cup holders, a large centre console bin, big door pockets, and a surprisingly massive glovebox. The 65W USB-C charging port proved invaluable for laptop and camera recharges, while the Harman Kardon sound system performed well at moderate volumes, though clarity dropped slightly at higher output.

Climbing Into the Cold

By midday, we had climbed into Victoria’s high country. Roads became twisty, gradients steepened, and temperatures dropped to just above freezing. Visibility was often limited due to fog. In these conditions, we switched back to 'Zoom' mode for extra responsiveness.

Despite being front-wheel drive and running standard tyres, the XUV 3XO never felt unsettled. Thanks to its Tivoli-inspired platform and good chassis tuning, it cornered confidently, stayed balanced through hairpins, and didn’t wallow under braking. Ride control remained flat, and the steering was accurate if a little light on feedback. Importantly, fuel economy didn’t deteriorate, sitting at 14.8km/L (approx. 6.7L/100km) after the mountain section.

Rural Roads and Reality Checks

Of course, no torture test would be complete without a detour onto unsealed roads. At multiple points throughout the journey, we tackled gravel, potholes, and corrugated dirt. The XUV 3XO handled this without fuss. No rattles. No thuds. No dashboard creaks.

While it's not a true off-roader, the XUV 3XO’s 201mm of ground clearance and robust underbody kept it safe from scrapes. The steering remained predictable even on loose surfaces, and we never felt the need to turn back. Most importantly, the cabin stayed quiet and composed.

Once back on the highway for our return leg, the XUV 3XO delivered its best fuel economy of the day at 16.4km/L (approx. 6.1L/100km). With cruise control set to 110km/h, it coasted efficiently, aided by its slippery aerodynamic profile.

Fuel Economy and the Final Count

After 11 hours, 613km, and everything from urban stop-start to high-altitude sprints, we pulled into a service station in the outer suburbs with the fuel warning light just starting to glow. We refilled the car, manually confirming a final fuel average of 7.6L/100km. That’s a remarkable result considering the day’s demands.

No mechanical issues. No warning lights. No annoying ergonomic oversights. Just a small, affordable SUV that handled everything we threw at it.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Mahindra XUV 3XO didn’t just survive our Australian outback-style torture test, it passed with flying colours. From icy mornings to foggy climbs, unsealed roads, and packed urban commutes, it proved itself as a capable and honest SUV.

Is it luxurious? No. Is it fast? Not at all. But for $26,490 drive-away, it’s an astonishingly well-rounded package.

It’s comfortable. It’s efficient. It’s robust. It’s tech-loaded. And above all, it’s trustworthy.

If you're shopping for a compact SUV in Australia and want something that can handle more than just the school run, the Mahindra XUV 3XO should be on your shortlist.

And remember, if you want the best deal on a Mahindra XUV 3XO, head to CarSauce Buy. Our team will connect you with trusted dealers for the sharpest price possible.