Mahindra TUV 300 2015-2019 T8

TUV 300 2015-2019 T8 Review

Mahindra & Mahindra is one of the country's leading automobile manufacturers for a very long period of time. They have once again successfully come out with yet another spectacular compact SUV, TUV 300. There are quite a few versions for the buyers to select from and one of their high end trim is labelled as the Mahindra TUV 300 T8 , which is its top end variant. The very first look at this utility vehicle will make one understand that it is built purely for performance. On the outside, the sturdy looks can be attributed to the impressive dimensions for a compact vehicle. While the chrome accents over the grille and fog lamps, side and rear footsteps and sporty rails on the roof all add up to its styling. A lot of technological elements have been offered by the company and they consist of advance aspects such as static-bending headlamps, infotainment system with Bluetooth, a Mahindra Bluesense mobile App, intellipark reverse assist, driver information and voice-assist system and also an Economy mode along with a micro hybrid technology. Comfort-wise, it has responsive steering wheel and power windows along with other such factors that will cater to the needs of the occupants. Whereas, the passengers can enjoy the luxury of storage spaces, air-conditioner unit, music system and many more utilities. Safety section is also well addressed which meets all the elementary and advanced needs of a utility vehicle. Offered in six colors and a special green shade, this has ample boot space as well, which can be increased by folding the second row seat.

Exteriors:

The appearance is highlighted by body toned bumpers both at its front and rear too. Frontage has a wide grille that has chrome inserts over it and the fog lamps too have a chrome application. On the sides, we see the external mirrors along with door handles in sync with the body shade. Other elements that adorn the side view is the blackout pillar. A flashy set of alloy wheels are bestowed that are further covered with tubeless radials. The roof is mounted with a stylish set of rails adding to the overall masculinity. A spare wheel is fitted on the tailgate which sports a cover that hosts the company branding on it. There are footsteps on the sides as well as at the rear end for easier ingress and egress of the passengers.

Interiors:

The car maker has given ample importance to the insides of this new entrant. The seats are well cushioned and covered with premium fabric all over. Then the center fascia is neatly done up and is in a piano black color that adds class to its overall look. The dashboard has a lot of nitty gritties like silver accents and finish on the air con vents as well as on the grab handles on the doors. The responsive power steering wheel has a garnish along with mounted buttons that make its easier for the driver to pick calls or make changes to the audio unit. To further enhance comfort for its occupants, there is an arm rest between the driver and the co-passenger. The storage options include a tray below the driver's seat that adds to the utility value. While there are a couple of roof lamps in the front as well the second seat row that covers almost everything inside. To charge small gadgets on the move, there are a couple of charging points in the first as well as the second row. As there are three rows of seats inside, there is very little luggage space. But at the same time this T8 version has an option of folding the rear as well as the second row seat to take in a lot of luggage, which certainly adds to the utility value.

Engine and Performance:

It is fitted with a 1.5-litre, mHawk80 diesel oil burner that also has a dual stage turbocharger. It has a total displacement capacity of close to 1493cc and is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission gear box . This mill is efficient enough to produce a maximum output of 84bhp at 3750rpm and a 230Nm torque in between 1500 to 2200rpm range. This being based on a common rail direct injection fuel supply system will deliver a mileage of about 18.49 Kmpl. It is in compliance with all the BS4 emission standards.

Braking and Handling:

The auto maker has given it a proficient suspension and braking mechanism. Its front wheels sport disc brakes while the rear ones are given standard drum brakes. An anti-lock braking system along with electronic brake-force distribution will further add to this mechanism. An independent double wishbone with an anti-roll bar is sitting in the front arena of the axle, while the rear is affixed with a rigid axle multi link. It also has a minimum turning radius of 5.35 meters, which is said to be quite good for a compact vehicle of this stature.

Comfort Features:

The dashboard has an HVAC with heater along with a power steering wheel that can be tilt adjusted. The external mirrors can be handled from inside, while it has all four power windows with switches placed nicely on the door handles. The driver seat can be adjusted and both the front seats have lumbar support that enhances the comfort while traveling. Other convenience aspects included in this trim are a rear windscreen wash and wipe function along with a defogger, remote locking with a smart looking keyless entry, steering mounted controls for phone as well as the music system.

Safety Features:

As this is one of the top end version, there are a lot of cautionary aspects incorporated in it by the company. The list includes airbags for both driver and the co-passenger for enhanced protection in case of an head on collision. To enhance the braking mechanism, this trim is equipped with ABS and EBD. Other fool proof aspects include a collapsible steering column that saves the torso of the driver in any crash, while the side intrusion beams reduces the damage to the occupants from the sides. The instrument cluster has quite a few warning lamps, one of which is the essential seat belt reminder notification. Then there is a digital immobilizer that wards off any unauthorized entry and this comes along with an anti theft warning system, which further bolsters this mechanism. The automatic door locking system is another added necessary feature that takes care of all the occupants.

Pros:

1. Price range is quite attractive.

2. New engine seems to be a plus point.

Cons:

1. Mileage is lesser when compared to other contenders.

2. Off-roading can be an issue with 174mm of ground clearance.

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