- Mahindra XUV 3XO vs Kia Sonet : The topmost category in India as of now is compact SUVs, the latest amalgamation of design, space, features, and performance, which is pretty much in demand in the market. Two of the strongest contenders are the Mahindra XUV 3XO and the Kia Sonet. These are totally modern-glitzy machines that actually make heads turn when they move down the road. So which one gives better value for money in 2025? Let’s see decision-making aspects i.e. design, features, performance, and pricing.
Dwelling on the design aspect, the Mahindra XUV 3XO comes along as a new bold design, with a wide front grille, LED DRLs, connected tail lamps, and sharp character lines, giving it a muscular modern outlook. The Kia Sonet, on the other hand, has a very contemporary premium look. It caters to buyers who would prefer such an elegant appearance, with features like the Tiger Nose grille, sleek LED headlamps, and stylishly detailed alloy wheels.
Both SUVs have been well featured. The XUV 3XO has a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a fully digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, 6 airbags (in top-end variants), and Level-2 ADAS-first-in-the-segment feature. Kia Sonet also has tons of things such as a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, ventilated front seats, air filter, wireless phone charging, and drive modes. Of course, the advantage is slightly held in favor of the XUV 3XO as the feature lacks availability in ADAS for Sonet.
Speaking about performance, the XUV 3XO comes with two options: the 1.2L turbo-petrol and the 1.5L diesel engine. The XUV 3XO performs very well thanks to its strong low-end torque combined with a smooth gearbox feel, especially with the AMT and DCT variants. It outshines its competition in this segment. The Kia Sonet also has a 1.2L petrol, 1.0L turbo-petrol, and 1.5L diesel engine option for its patrons. It excels on the city traffic charts with refinement and ride quality. Both cars come in automatic as well as manual option, giving flexibility to the buyer.
This makes the Mahindra XUV 3XO lesser than its competitor as it costs between ₹7.49 lakh to ₹13 lakh (ex-showroom). The Kia Sonet, on the other hand, is priced from ₹7.99 lakh to ₹14 lakh.
In a nutshell, everyone interested in an SUV that has a bolder design, advanced safety features such as ADAS, and good performance would be extremely pleased by the XUV 3XO. However, for people who look for something more premium and polished in the interiors, as well as a wide array of engine options, the Kia Sonet would undoubtedly be one of those options to go for.