The Indian SUV market is fiercely competitive, and Mahindra has long stood its ground with solid, feature-rich offerings. The 2021 Mahindra XUV300 AutoSHIFT adds an automatic transmission to an already capable compact SUV — but how well does it deliver? Here’s our full first drive impression after spending a day behind the wheel.
🔧 What is AutoSHIFT?
Mahindra calls its AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) “AutoSHIFT”, and it debuts in the diesel variant of the XUV300. It promises the ease of an automatic with the efficiency and affordability of a manual — ideal for Indian traffic conditions.
Unlike traditional automatic gearboxes, AMT systems retain the clutch and gearbox layout of manuals but use actuators to shift gears automatically. This keeps costs in check while providing driving comfort.
🚙 First Impressions: Exterior & Styling
There are no major cosmetic changes in the AutoSHIFT variant — and that’s a good thing. The XUV300 already carries a premium and aggressive design, with:
- LED Daytime Running Lights
- Projector headlamps
- Dual-tone roof options (on higher trims)
- Bold grille and muscular stance
- Stylish 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
The XUV300 may be compact in length (under 4 meters), but it stands tall and wide, giving it a strong road presence.
🛋️ Interior & Cabin Experience
Step inside, and you’re welcomed by a dual-tone dashboard, leatherette upholstery (in the top-end W8(O) variant), and a well-laid-out cabin.
Cabin highlights include:
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Steering-mounted controls
- Cruise control
- Height-adjustable driver’s seat
The cabin feels premium for the price and offers impressive space, especially in the front row. Rear-seat comfort is also decent for two adults with good legroom and under-thigh support.
⚙️ Performance: How Does AutoSHIFT Drive?
Under the hood is the same 1.5L, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that produces 115 bhp and 300 Nm of torque — one of the highest in its segment. The AutoSHIFT gearbox complements this engine beautifully.
Here’s how it performed:
- City Drive: The AMT makes daily commuting easier, especially in stop-go traffic. There’s a slight delay in shifts (a known trait of AMTs), but once you get used to it, the drive feels seamless.
- Highway Performance: At higher speeds, the gearbox adapts well. You may want to use the manual mode for better control during overtakes.
- Incline Handling: The hill-start assist works well, preventing rollback on slopes.
Overall, the XUV300 AutoSHIFT is not sporty, but it’s smooth, fuel-efficient, and stress-free.
🧠 Features & Technology
Mahindra offers segment-best features in the XUV300 AutoSHIFT, especially in the top-end W8(O) variant:
- 6 Airbags
- Front & rear parking sensors
- Rear camera with dynamic guidelines
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill start assist
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
These safety features make it one of the safest cars in its category.
🔍 Mileage & Efficiency
Mahindra claims a mileage of around 20 km/l for the diesel AMT variant. In our mixed driving conditions, we saw around 17–18 km/l, which is quite reasonable for a sub-compact SUV with this performance level.
💰 Pricing and Variants
The XUV300 AutoSHIFT diesel was launched in multiple trims:
- W6 AMT
- W8 AMT
- W8(O) AMT
At the time of launch, prices started at ₹9.99 lakh and went up to around ₹12.70 lakh (ex-showroom). While a bit on the higher side, the top-end variant justifies it with its safety and tech features.
✅ Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔️ Strong diesel engine
✔️ Smooth AMT performance
✔️ Premium features and safety tech
✔️ Spacious and practical cabin
✔️ 5-star Global NCAP safety rating
Cons:
❌ Gear shifts are slower than traditional automatics
❌ Boot space (257L) is smaller than rivals
❌ No petrol-AMT option at launch
🏁 Final Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The 2021 Mahindra XUV300 AutoSHIFT is a perfect urban SUV for those who want the ease of an automatic with the fuel economy and torque-rich performance of a diesel. If your priority is safety, comfort, and practicality, it’s a serious contender in the compact SUV segment.
For long-distance commuters, city dwellers, and small families, the XUV300 AutoSHIFT ticks most boxes.