Exploring the Mahindra W8 Diesel Compact SUV: Features, Price, and Safety

Welcome to a detailed look at a popular compact SUV, known for its strong build quality. We are focusing on the second-top W8 diesel variant, which offers a great balance of features and performance. This car is recognized as one of the safest compact SUVs in its segment.

Variants and Pricing

Available Variants

The car is available in four main variants:

• W4 (base model)
• W6
• W8
• W8 Optional (top variant)

The W8 Optional variant offers additional features such as six airbags (compared to two in the W8), a different alloy wheel style, LED headlights, and front parking sensors.

Price Details

The ex-showroom price for this car starts from ₹8 lakhs. The on-road price in Lucknow can go up to ₹14 lakh plus.

For the W8 diesel variant specifically:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹12.30 lakhs
• On-road price (Lucknow): Approximately ₹14.38 lakhs

For the W8 petrol variant:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹11.60 lakhs
• On-road price (Lucknow): Approximately ₹13 lakhs

Exterior Design and Features

Bold Exterior Design

This compact SUV features a muscular, boxy design that gives it a robust presence. It comes with a smart key that includes buttons for locking, unlocking, and opening the boot, along with the Mahindra logo on the key itself.

Front Profile Highlights

The front of the car showcases the new, updated Mahindra logo. The grille is entirely black with chrome inserts, giving it a premium feel. The headlamps are automatic projector units, complemented by DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and side indicators. While separate fog lamps are not standard, they can be added as an accessory. The lower grille also features chrome inserts. A muscular skid plate and engine guard enhance the front’s rugged appeal. The car offers a ground clearance of 180mm. It also features a dual wiper and washer system.

Side View and Dimensions

The overall dimensions of the car are generous for its segment:

• Length: 3995 mm
• Width: 1821 mm
• Height: 1627 mm
• Wheelbase: 2600 mm

It rides on 16-inch alloy wheels with a silver finish and features the new Mahindra logo. All four wheels are equipped with disc brakes. The tire profile is 205/65 R16. Black cladding extends along the body, adding to its SUV look. The ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) are dual-tone, electrically adjustable, foldable, and have integrated indicators. The A-pillars are finished in black, and the sunroof rails are also black. Request sensors are provided on the door handles for keyless entry. All door handles are body-colored.

Rear Design and Details

The rear also features the new Mahindra logo and a reverse parking camera. LED taillights are standard, even from the base variant. Other features include a rear wiper, defogger, and a high-mount stop lamp. The W8 badging is visible at the rear. The bumper includes reflectors and two reverse parking sensors. The black bumper has a silver-finished skid plate, and the exhaust pipe is located on the side.

Color Options and Warranty

The car is available in various colors, including White (the one featured), Black, Silver, Red, Grey, and Aqua Marine. Mahindra offers a warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kilometers, which can be extended up to 5 years.

Engine Specifications and Performance

The car offers both diesel and petrol engine options with manual and automatic transmission choices. However, automatic transmission is available from the W6 variant onwards.

Diesel Engine

• Type: 1.5-liter, 1497cc, 4-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine.
• Power: 115 BHP
• Torque: 300 Nm
• Mileage: Approximately 17 kmpl

Petrol Engine

• Type: 1.2-liter, 1197cc, petrol engine.
• Power: 108 BHP
• Torque: 200 Nm
• Mileage: Approximately 12 kmpl

Interior Comfort and Technology

Cabin Overview

The interior features an all-black theme for the door panels. The electric sunroof is a significant feature, offering an open and airy feel. The cabin provides comfortable legroom. A minor drawback is the absence of rear AC vents. The dashboard design, while functional, has been consistent for some time. Grab handles, a hook, and a flat light are provided. The second-row seats come with adjustable headrests. This W8 variant includes two airbags, and the seats are upholstered in fabric (the top W8 Optional variant offers leather seats).

Driver-Centric Features

The driver’s side door panel includes controls for ORVM adjustment, power windows, speakers, and reflectors. The dashboard has a fabric finish (top variants get leather). The driver’s seat is height-adjustable. The car comes with a 6-speed manual transmission and standard ABC pedals. There’s a lever for opening the bonnet and a switch box. The car features an engine start/stop button (idle start/stop function).

The steering wheel, with the new updated Mahindra logo, is adjustable for both tilt and telescopic positions. The instrument cluster combines a digital display with a speedometer and tachometer. The MID (Multi-Information Display) screen shows various details like Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), average mileage, range, and odometer. Controls for wipers, automatic headlights, infotainment, telephone, and cruise control are conveniently placed on the steering wheel. Traction control is also available.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A 7-inch infotainment system supports navigation, Android Auto, USB, and AUX connectivity. It can also display mileage and other information. The car features a four-speaker audio system. The reverse parking camera’s quality is shown through this screen. Fully automatic climate control ensures comfortable cabin temperatures. Two USB ports, one AUX port, and a 12V charging outlet are provided, along with a space to keep a phone. The center console includes two glass holders and an armrest with storage. The glove box is illuminated.

Rear Passenger Experience

The car’s width allows three passengers to sit comfortably in the back. The passenger sun visor includes a vanity mirror with a light.

Practicality and Safety

Boot Space

The car offers a boot space of 257 liters. The rear seats have a 60:40 split function for increased luggage flexibility. A spare wheel and tool kit are located beneath the boot floor. A parcel tray is not included but can be installed as an accessory.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The diesel variant has a fuel tank capacity of 42 liters.

Top-Tier Safety

This compact SUV has achieved a 5-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests, making it one of the safest compact SUVs in its segment.

Key Safety Features

The car comes equipped with a comprehensive list of safety features:

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
• EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• Dual Airbags (W8 variant)
• Remote Sensor Lock
• Seat Belt Warning
• Speed Alert System
• Central Locking
• Child Lock
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Reverse Parking Sensors

Conclusion

The Mahindra compact SUV, especially the W8 diesel variant, stands out in its segment for its muscular design, robust build quality, and a comprehensive list of features. With a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, it offers exceptional protection for its occupants. While it faces competition from models like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Brezza, its strong build quality and safety features make it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and secure compact SUV.