The problem with strong performance is that it usually comes at the cost of mileage. However, the Mahindra XUV 300 – and Mahindras in general – is that they have been tuned to prioritise performance over fuel economy; hence, they are all very powerful.
If you want strong performance and a fun-to-drive character, check out the Skoda Kylaq. Its 1.0 TSI engine makes 115hp, which is less than what the Mahindra offers. But as is often the case with Volkswagen Group’s famous TSI turbo-petrol engines, it feels a lot stronger than the numbers suggest.
The good bit is that it comes with a smooth 6-speed AT option, in case that is what you want, but the 6-speed MT is a fun and easy gearbox as well. As for fuel economy, it will definitely be better than the XUV 300’s 1.2-litre turbo petrol, but you will still have to be careful with the throttle to achieve good real-world economy numbers.