Skoda Kylaq Signature Plus vs Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 Petrol is one of the most relevant compact SUV comparisons for 2025 buyers looking for the perfect blend of performance, technology, safety, and value in the Indian automotive market. This head-to-head analysis will help discerning customers evaluate which SUV fits their priorities, particularly as competition among compact SUVs intensifies with each model year.
Focus on Engine Tech: GDI vs MPFi
Right at the heart of the discussion is the difference in engine technology:
- Skoda Kylaq Signature Plus sports a 1.0L TSI turbocharged direct injection (GDI) petrol engine, offering brisk, efficient performance in the city and on highways, as well as superior responsiveness for driving enthusiasts.
- Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 Petrol is powered by a 1.2L mStallion turbo MPFi engine (non-GDI in AX5), delivering higher torque but running the older multi-point fuel injection system. While Mahindra does offer a GDI variant, it comes at a premium of over ₹1.6 lakh compared to the AX5, making the GDI tech less accessible at this price point.
Skoda Kylaq Signature Plus vs Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5: Detailed Specification & Feature Comparison
| Feature | Skoda Kylaq Signature Plus | Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 Petrol |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L TSI Turbocharged Petrol (GDI) | 1.2L mStallion Turbo MPFi Petrol (Non-GDI) |
| Displacement | 999 cc | 1197 cc |
| Max Power | 114 bhp @ 5000-5500 rpm | 110 bhp @ 5000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 178 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm | 200 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual/Automatic | 6-speed Manual/Automatic |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 19.68 kmpl | 18.89 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 Litres | 42 Litres |
| Boot Space | 446 L (exp. to 1265 L) | 378 L |
| Alloy Wheels | 16-inch | 16-inch |
| Safety | 6 Airbags, ABS, ESC, TPMS, Rear Camera | 6 Airbags, ABS, ESC, TPMS, Rear Camera |
| Features | Auto Climate, Cruise, Rear AC, Rain Sensing Wipers | Auto Climate, Cruise, Sunroof, Dual-zone AC, Wireless Charging |
Also Read: Skoda Kylaq Signature AT – Best Automatic Car Under 12 Lakh
Exterior & Design
- Kylaq Signature Plus: Carries a sharp, European design influence with clean lines, sturdy build, bold grille, LED headlamps (segment stand-out), and understated elegance. It feels solid and premium, with a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating.
- XUV 3XO AX5: Has a more muscular stance, eye-catching alloy wheels, and additional flair like a sunroof, distinctive taillamps, and a bolder front profile. Its design is contemporary, appealing to younger or style-focused buyers.
Interior, Space & Comfort
- Kylaq: Euro-inspired spacious cabin with dual-tone upholstery, multi-function steering, digital 8″ cluster, and a focus on minimalism. Rear AC vents, cooled glovebox, and 60:40 split seats enhance practicality.
- XUV 3XO AX5: Feels plush for the segment, highlighted by a larger digital cluster, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone AC, wireless charger, and generous rear passenger space. Although the boot is smaller, passenger comfort is top-notch for long journeys
Performance & Drive Dynamics
- Kylaq’s GDI turbo engine gives you a lively, punchy drive—particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate quick throttle response and smooth acceleration. Its 6-speed torque converter automatic is refined, and the chassis feels well balanced for Indian roads.
- XUV 3XO AX5’s turbo MPFi engine produces more torque earlier, making it brisk off the line. However, the lack of GDI tech in this particular variant means a slight edge goes to Kylaq for efficiency and overall refinement. Mahindra’s ride is composed and slightly more comfort-oriented for everyday commuting.
Also Read: Volkswagen Taigun Used Car Buying Guide 2025
Value-Added Features
- Kylaq Signature Plus:
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Cooled glovebox
- Cruise control
- Rear camera with parking sensors
- 6 airbags, traction/stability control
- Alloy wheels, premium upholstery
- XUV 3XO AX5:
- Sunroof
- Dual-zone climate control
- Wireless charger
- Advanced infotainment and instrument cluster
- Premium safety features mirrored from Kylaq but with added tech conveniences in the top trims
Engine Technology Explainer
A key talking point is the difference between MPFi and GDI (Direct Injection):
- GDI engines (Kylaq): Offer cleaner combustion, better power output, higher efficiency, and lower emissions.
- MPFi engines (3XO AX5): Simpler, more robust, but less efficient at extracting performance and mileage from turbocharged setups.
Mahindra’s GDI (TGDi) engine is available for a premium exceeding ₹1.6 lakh. For this AX5 trim, you do not get the GDI advantage, so buyers specifically seeking cutting-edge turbo tech at a lower price will find the Kylaq more accessible.
Safety
Both SUVs are well-equipped:
- 6 airbags, ABS, ESC, TPMS, rear camera standard
- Bharat NCAP 5-star rating for both
- Kylaq’s global DNA inspires solid chassis integrity; XUV 3XO gets practical safety tech and better visibility features like front parking sensors in higher trims
Price & Ownership Value
- Kylaq Signature Plus (Manual/AT): Ex-showroom starts ~₹11.25L, with practical on-road prices and robust after-sales from a growing Skoda network.
- XUV 3XO AX5 Petrol (Manual/AT): Ex-showroom starts ~₹10.99L, but a direct-injection turbo option comes only at a higher price. Still, the AX5 is packed with tech, space, and is a top choice for gadget lovers.
Pros & Cons Table
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Kylaq Signature Plus | GDI turbo engine, premium Euro build, larger boot, value safety, rear AC vents | No sunroof, infotainment smaller, slightly lower torque |
| XUV 3XO AX5 Petrol | More torque, sunroof, larger cluster, wireless charger, plush interiors | Non-GDI engine, smaller boot, GDI at a premium |
Which One to Choose in 2025?
- Pick the Kylaq Signature Plus if you want Euro-inspired solidity, a thrillier and more modern turbo GDI engine (at this price point), greater luggage space, and unbeatable value on safety and essentials.
- Pick the XUV 3XO AX5 if you prize the latest tech convenience features, extra torque, plushness, sunroof, and don’t mind the extra outlay for a GDI variant if you’re chase both tech and performance.