Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG variant in the works — Will it take on the Tata Nexon CNG?

India’s CNG car market is no longer small. It has become the second most popular fuel after petrol, with a 21.98% share in FY2026. That is too big for any mass market carmaker to ignore. Mahindra has seen good response with the XUV 3XO. In 2025, it sold 1,00,029 units. But it still trails the Tata Nexon, which sold more than double. One key reason is simple. The Nexon already has a CNG option, while the 3XO does not.

That is where the XUV 3XO CNG comes in. Reports suggest Mahindra is planning to add a CNG variant to the lineup. If that happens, the 3XO will offer petrol, diesel, electric, and CNG options under one nameplate, making it more complete for buyers.

What engine will power the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG?

The XUV 3XO comes with two versions of a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine. One makes 111 PS and the other makes 131 PS. The upcoming CNG version is likely to use the 111 PS MPFI engine, not the more powerful one.

The reason is simple. CNG works better with MPFI engines because the fuel mixes with air before entering the engine. Using CNG with a direct injection engine is much more complicated and expensive, as it needs changes to the fuel system and tuning. So even though the MPFI engine is less powerful, it makes more sense for a CNG setup. Mahindra has not shared official power figures yet.

For comparison, the Tata Nexon CNG uses a 1.2-litre turbo engine that produces 100PS and 170Nm in CNG mode. The XUV 3XO CNG is expected to offer similar performance, but exact numbers are still not confirmed.

Mahindra 3XO CNG boot space — How Mahindra might solve it

The XUV 3XO already has one of the smallest boots in its segment at 295 litres. Adding a regular CNG tank would eat into this space even more, which can be a problem for buyers who need usable luggage room. Mahindra knows this, so it has a couple of ways to deal with it. One option is a dual-cylinder setup like the Tata Nexon, which helps free up some boot space. Another option is placing the tank under the car, like Maruti has done on some models. The upcoming Brezza facelift is also expected to follow a similar approach.

Since rivals have already found smarter ways to manage this, Mahindra is likely to do something similar with the XUV 3XO CNG. This part is important. If Mahindra manages to keep the boot usable while adding CNG, it can avoid one of the biggest complaints people usually have with CNG cars.

Will the design or features change for the CNG variant?

The upcoming Mahindra 3XO CNG version is not expected to change much in terms of design or interior. The XUV 3XO is already well equipped for its segment. It offers a dual-screen setup, wirless cheger, JBL speakers, panoramic sunroof, and Level 2 ADAS. All of this is likely to stay the same.

The CNG changes will be minimal. You can expect the tank setup, CNG badging and a small update in the infotainment system to show fuel levels. The gearbox will most likely be a 6-speed manual, as seen in most factory-fitted CNG cars. An automatic option is unlikely at launch.

Mahindra 3XO CNG expected pricing — Where will it slot in?

Looking at where rivals are priced and how Mahindra usually positions the XUV 3XO, the CNG version could start around Rs 9 lakh to Rs 10 lakh ex-showroom. Higher variants with more features may go up to around Rs 12 lakh or slightly more, depending on the trims. The current petrol version starts at about Rs 7.54 lakh. A price gap of around Rs 1 to 1.5 lakh for the CNG version would be in line with what we usually see in the market.

Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG launch timeline — When can we expect it?

The XUV 3XO CNG is expected to arrive by the end of 2026 or early 2027. Mahindra could bring it to market later this year or early next year, with pricing aligned with other CNG options in the segment.

There is no official launch date yet and Mahindra has not shared details. But going by current reports, the development seems to be at an advanced stage.

Stay updated with all the latest happenings & developments in the automotive world by joining our official AUTOVERSE WhatsApp community. Also, don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, AUTOVERSE by Cars24, for key details & visuals.

Source