Amidst the growing demand for CNG SUVs in India, Mahindra has intensified the competition with the launch of the XUV 3XO ZNG. Starting at Rs. 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the SUV offers a claimed fuel efficiency of 24.70 km/kg.
As part of this Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG vs Rivals detailed comparison, its biggest highlight is the turbocharged CNG engine, which could appeal to buyers looking for a balance of performance, features and fuel efficiency.
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But just looking at mileage is not enough when buying a CNG SUV. Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG appeals to mileage-focused buyers with a claimed efficiency of 26.90 km/kg, while Tata Nexon iCNG is another alternative with turbocharged powertrain and twin-cylinder technology.
So, which of these three SUVs is the more sensible choice for you? Let’s compare mileage, engine, boot, practicality, and pricing in detail.
Also Read: Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG Launched at Rs. 9.99 Lakh With Dual-Cylinder CNG Setup
Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG vs Rivals: Mileage Comparison
First, let’s talk about fuel efficiency. The Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG has a claimed efficiency of 26.90 km/kg, which is the highest among these three. The Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG offers a claimed figure of 24.70 km/kg, while the published claimed efficiency of the Tata Nexon iCNG is around 24 km/kg.
| SUV | Claimed CNG mileage | Mileage’s Main Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG | 26.90 km/kg | Highest Clammed Efficiency |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG | 24.70 km/kg | Balanced package with turbocharged engine |
| Tata Nexon iCNG | Around 24 km/kg | Turbo-CNG powertrain and twin-cylinder setup |
An important clarification: The Tata Nexon’s 17.44 km/l figure refers to the petrol variant, not the CNG variant. Therefore, it would be incorrect to consider 17.44 as CNG mileage when comparing the Nexon iCNG.
These figures are based on claimed or certified fuel-efficiency data. Real-world mileage may vary depending on traffic, driving style, AC usage, passengers, and road conditions.
Engine and Performance: What is the advantage of the XUV 3XO ZNG?
The Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG is powered by a 1.2-liter mStallion TCMPFi turbocharged bi-fuel engine. It can run on both petrol and CNG and delivers approximately 110 bhp of power with 200 Nm of torque in CNG mode. Mahindra has used a 10-bar injection setup, optimized turbocharger, and ECU calibration for the CNG system.
This means that the focus of the XUV 3XO ZNG is not only on reducing fuel costs, but also on keeping performance competitive. The company claims a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of 11.8 seconds. This powertrain could be interesting for buyers who don’t want to compromise much on driving performance while switching to CNG.
But remember one thing: the Tata Nexon iCNG also comes with a turbocharged CNG engine. So, turbo-CNG technology is not just Mahindra’s advantage. When comparing the two models, consider engine output, driving feel, variant pricing, and test-drive experience.
The Maruti Brezza S-CNG is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine. In CNG mode, it produces approximately 88 PS and 121.5 Nm. Its approach focuses more on efficiency and everyday usability than performance.
Also Read: 2026 Maruti Brezza Facelift Rivals: Top 5 Competitors Explained
Boot Space and CNG Cylinder Setup
Boot space is an important buying factor in CNG SUVs, as a conventional CNG cylinder can occupy a significant portion of the luggage area.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG features a dual-cylinder setup, which is packaged below the luggage floor. With this arrangement, the company claims a 270-liter boot space. This design can be useful for family buyers, especially when carrying regular luggage.
The Tata Nexon iCNG also uses twin-cylinder technology. According to Tata, its trunk space is 321 liters. Therefore, the Nexon has an advantage on published luggage capacity figures, but to understand actual usability, check the trunk opening, floor height, and luggage size.
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG features an underbody CNG tank configuration, which aims to preserve usable trunk space. This is relevant for buyers who regularly use the trunk of their SUV for family trips and daily shopping.
Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG vs Rivals Price & Variants: Which SUV Fits the Budget?
Ex-showroom pricing for the Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG starts at Rs. 9.99 lakh and goes up to Rs. 12.27 lakh for the top variant. Four variants were announced at launch: MX Edge ZNG, REVX Edge (O) ZNG, AX5 ZNG, and REVX A ZNG.
When comparing the exact price with the Brezza S-CNG and Nexon iCNG, it’s important to check the equivalent variants. Just comparing the starting price doesn’t paint a clear picture, as features, safety equipment, and trim availability may vary. When taking dealer quotes, include insurance, registration, and available offers along with the ex-showroom price.
The XUV 3XO ZNG can be equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera and other convenience features depending on the variant. It’s best to check the equipment list of the selected variant rather than assuming every feature is standard.
Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG vs Rivals: Safety & Everyday Practicality
Safety and everyday usability should be seriously evaluated in SUVs. The Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG features six airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, and all four disc brakes. The Tata Nexon iCNG also comes with multiple safety systems and CNG-specific protection technologies. As with the Brezza, the exact safety equipment of the selected variant should be checked.
Servicing of the CNG system, local CNG pump availability, and vehicle behavior in petrol mode also impact the ownership experience. If CNG stations are easily available on your daily route, the running cost benefits of a CNG SUV may be more practical.
Which CNG SUV should you buy?
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG: If your top priority is maximum claimed mileage and keeping fuel costs under control, the Brezza S-CNG is a strong contender. Its 26.90 km/kg figure is the highest among the three.
- Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG: If you want a turbocharged CNG powertrain, strong torque, and a feature-rich compact SUV package, you can shortlist the XUV 3XO ZNG. Its claimed efficiency is lower than the Brezza, but its performance-focused setup holds distinct appeal.
- Tata Nexon iCNG: If you want a turbocharged CNG engine with practical twin-cylinder packaging, the Nexon iCNG also deserves serious consideration. Its published claimed CNG mileage is approximately 24 km/kg, not 17.44 km/kg.
Auto India Daily Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG is the clear winner in terms of claimed mileage. However, a final buying decision should not be based on fuel efficiency alone. In this Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG vs Rivals comparison, the XUV 3XO ZNG stands out with its turbocharged engine and dual-cylinder layout, making it appealing to performance-oriented buyers.
Meanwhile, the Tata Nexon iCNG remains a strong contender, combining turbo-CNG technology with practical luggage-space packaging.
The final choice will depend on your priorities: shortlist the Brezza S-CNG for maximum claimed mileage, the XUV 3XO ZNG for a performance-focused package, and the Nexon iCNG for a practical alternative with turbo-CNG. The most sensible approach would be to compare the on-road pricing, boot space and test-drive experience of equivalent variants before purchasing.
Also Read: Tata Aeris vs Rivals: Dzire, Aura & Amaze Price, Engine, CNG Compared
Raj Prajapati is a Senior Automotive Content Writer at AutoIndiaDaily. A B.Tech graduate in Computer Science and Engineering, he leverages over four years of experience covering Indian car and bike launches, EV tech, and market dynamics to break down complex automotive regulations into simple consumer guides. Specialising in Indian motor vehicle laws, IRDAI updates, and ownership costs, Raj translates technical auto policies into actionable advice for everyday drivers.