Mahindra KUV100 2025: Are you on the hunt for a car that’s as quirky as it is practical? Meet the Mahindra KUV100, a compact SUV that’s redefining what it means to drive in style without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a city dweller needing extra space, or simply someone who wants an SUV feel in a hatchback body, the KUV100 is worth a closer look. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this unique ride stand out in the crowd.
A Bold Design for Urban Adventurers
Distinctive Looks That Turn Heads
The Mahindra KUV100 isn’t your average city car. With its chunky stance, muscular fenders, and bold lines, it’s designed to look like a mini-SUV-even though it’s technically a hatchback. The high ground clearance (170 mm) and upright posture give you a commanding view of the road, while stylish touches like the smoked headlamps, piano black inserts, and dual-tone color options add a dose of flair.
You’ll find the KUV100 available in a palette of vibrant colors, including Flamboyant Red, Aquamarine, Fiery Orange, Pearl White, Dazzling Silver, Designer Grey, and Midnight Black. The pillar-mounted rear door handles and alloy wheels (on higher trims) give it a modern, sporty vibe, making it a car that stands out in any parking lot.
Compact Yet Spacious
Despite its compact length of around 3.7 meters, the KUV100 is surprisingly roomy inside. Thanks to clever packaging, it can seat up to six people-a rarity in this segment. The 2,385 mm wheelbase ensures ample legroom, and the tall roofline means even your tallest friends won’t be bumping their heads.
Engines, Performance, and Efficiency
Petrol, Diesel, and Even Electric!
Mahindra’s KUV100 lineup is all about choice. You get to pick from:
- 1.2L mFalcon G80 Petrol: 82 bhp @ 5500 rpm, 115 Nm @ 3500–3600 rpm, delivering a peppy city drive and a claimed mileage of 18.15 km/l.
- 1.2L mFalcon D75 Diesel: 77 bhp @ 3750 rpm, 190 Nm @ 1750–2250 rpm, with a stellar mileage of up to 25.32 km/l-perfect for long commutes and road trips.
- e-KUV100 (Electric): 54.35 PS, 120 Nm torque, 147 km range per charge, and priced around ₹8.25 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). This variant is for those ready to embrace the electric revolution.
All variants come with a 5-speed manual gearbox, and the front-wheel-drive layout ensures nimble handling in city traffic.
Ride and Handling: Built for Indian Roads
The KUV100’s suspension is tuned for comfort, with MacPherson struts up front and a twist beam at the rear, both with hydraulic gas-charged shock absorbers. Whether you’re gliding over speed bumps or tackling potholes, the ride remains composed. The 5.05-meter turning radius makes tight U-turns and parking in cramped spaces a breeze.
Features and Comfort: Small Car, Big Surprises
Interior: Practical and Packed with Goodies
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a smart, dual-tone dashboard with piano black and silver accents. The top trims offer a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, premium black interiors, and even mood lighting in the door handles for a touch of class. There’s a plus-sized front armrest, folding rear tables, and plenty of storage cubbies for your daily knick-knacks.
The KUV100’s unique 3+3 seating layout means you can squeeze in an extra passenger up front, or fold down the center seat for a massive armrest and cup holders. Boot space is a practical 243 liters, enough for your weekly groceries or a couple of duffel bags.
Exterior: Rugged Meets Refined
From adjustable headlamps and fog lights to roof rails and alloy wheels, the KUV100’s exterior is loaded with features that blend style and utility. The rear spoiler and body cladding add to its SUV persona, while the 15-inch wheels (on higher trims) ensure a confident stance.
| Feature | KUV100 (Top Variant) |
|---|---|
| Headlamps | Smoked Halogen |
| Infotainment | 7.0-inch Touchscreen |
| Mood Lighting | Yes |
| Alloy Wheels | 15-inch |
| Seating Capacity | 6 |
| Boot Space | 243 liters |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 35 liters |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Optional |
Safety: Peace of Mind Comes Standard
Comprehensive Safety Kit
Mahindra has loaded the KUV100 with safety features that punch above its weight. Across most variants, you get:
- Dual front airbags (standard on higher trims, optional on base)
- ABS with EBD as standard across all variants
- Seat belt pretensioners
- Child safety locks
- Speed-sensing door locks
- Engine immobilizer and central locking
- ISOFIX child seat mounts for the rear seat
The top-end models add speed warning, anchor points for child seats, and overspeed alerts. While it may not have the highest crash test ratings, the KUV100’s safety package is robust for its class.
Variants, Pricing, and How It Stacks Up
Plenty of Choices for Every Budget
The KUV100 NXT was available in multiple variants-K2, K4, K6, K8-with both 5- and 6-seater options, and in petrol, diesel, and CNG (Trip 6S CNG) versions. Prices started at around ₹4.96 lakh for the base petrol and went up to ₹8.02 lakh for the fully loaded diesel dual-tone model.
Here’s a quick comparison with key rivals:
| Model | KUV100 NXT | Maruti Ignis | Tata Tiago NRG | Renault Kwid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (₹ lakh) | 4.96 | 5.49 | 7.20 | 4.70 |
| Engine (cc) | 1198 | 1197 | 1199 | 999 |
| Power (bhp) | 82 (P), 77 (D) | 82 | 85 | 67 |
| Mileage (km/l) | 18.15 (P), 25.32 (D) | 20.89 | 20.09 | 22.25 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 170 | 180 | 181 | 184 |
P = Petrol, D = Diesel
Value for Money
Owners rave about the KUV100’s value proposition-excellent ground clearance, a comfortable ride, and low service costs. The SUV-inspired looks and spacious cabin make it a solid family car, especially for those wanting something different from the usual hatchbacks.
Conclusion
The Mahindra KUV100 is a breath of fresh air in the compact car segment. It blends the ruggedness of an SUV with the practicality and affordability of a hatchback. With multiple engine options, a spacious and flexible interior, a strong safety package, and a price tag that won’t make your wallet weep, the KUV100 is a smart choice for urban families and young adventurers alike. If you want a car that’s as unique as you are, give the KUV100 a serious look-it just might be the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
FAQs
1. Is the Mahindra KUV100 a true SUV?
Not exactly-it’s a compact crossover that combines SUV styling with hatchback practicality, making it ideal for city driving with a dash of adventure.
2. What’s the real-world mileage of the KUV100?
Expect around 17 km/l for petrol and up to 25 km/l for diesel, depending on your driving style and conditions.
3. How many people can the KUV100 seat?
It can seat up to six people, thanks to its unique 3+3 seating layout-a rare feature in this segment.
4. Does the KUV100 come with an automatic gearbox?
The KUV100 is primarily offered with a 5-speed manual transmission across all variants.
5. Is there an electric version of the KUV100?
Yes, Mahindra showcased the e-KUV100 with a 147 km range and a price tag around ₹8.25 lakh, aimed at eco-conscious buyers.