Editorial Test Drive Review of Mahindra Xylo

Mahindra had launched the Xylo way back in 2009 and recently they launched a new version.  The Xylo now gets a front end very similar to the Genio pick-up and now looks much more appealing and pleasing to the eyes. The grille is new, the bonnet gels down in a more seamless manner and finally, the headlamps are changed to accommodate these new changes. The bumper gets a makeover and also gets chin rubber strips. Mahindra provides ABS as an option on the E4 and E8 version while the latter also gets air-bags as optional. The Xylo remains calm and composed during emergency braking manoeuvres.
 Step inside the Xylo and you are greeted with surprises of the good kind. To start with, there is loads of space, much more than its own cousin, the Scorpio. The E9 version comes loaded to the brim and this is what we had for test with us. There are changes made to the cabin, for instance, the new two-tone color theme which looks premium. There is leather usage as well and can be seen on the seats, steering and gear shift lever. Doors gets a new trim, there is wooden finish on the console and a new floor console. And the moment you grab the steering, the controls for the audio system, voice activated commands and cruise control system greet you – yes, the E9 Xylo comes loaded with all these technologically advanced features and gizmos! The driver information display is right there in the centre while the 2nd row gets two dedicated snacks tray. All the rows get dedicated cup / bottle holders and air-con vents. Phew!  Yes, the new Xylo indeed comes loaded with features and makes every possible way of impressing you. The only thing that lets you down is the quality at places – for the example, the way the arm rests function is a bit flimsy.  The new Xylo now comes with an additional choice of engine – the 2.2-litre diesel motor picked up from the Scoprio. This engine is only available on the top end E9 model and needless to say, lends a completely different character to the Xylo. The E4 and E8 models continue to come with the same 112Bhp / 26Nm mEagle engine and the D2 and D2 models (intended for commercial usage) continue to come with the 2.5-litre mDI engine generated 95Bhp of power and 220Nm of torque. The ARAI ratings for the mEagle and mDi engines stand at 13kmpl and 14.95kmpl respectively.   Mahindra calls as Extra Stability Technology. The re-caliberated dampers and bushings for the suspension do make a world of difference, especially when you are going fast.  As far as comfort goes, the suspension does its job ably. There is a fair bit of suspension noise and when driven alone, you do tend to get thrown a bit over sharp undulations. But drive the Xylo with more than two people on board and suddenly, the suspension feels spot-on. Steering is a tad on the heavier side but the plus point is that at triple digit speeds, there is now a fair bit of feedback and you feel in control easily. The new Xylo range starts at Rs 7.33 lakh for the base D2 version in BS-III configuration. The BS-IV model costs Rs 7.47 lakh. The top end E9 with all the bells and whistles can be yours for Rs 10.47 lakh and for this, you get features that are unique to this segment.