When it comes to practical family cars in India, MPVs hold a special place. The Mahindra Marazzo, inspired by the shark in both design and name, is Mahindra’s answer to the premium MPV segment. Positioned between the affordable Maruti Ertiga/XL6 and the premium Toyota Innova Crysta, the Marazzo offers a spacious 7/8-seater layout, robust diesel performance, and features tailored for Indian families.
Launched in its updated BS6 Phase-2 avatar in April 2023, the Marazzo continues to be a unique proposition in the Indian market. While rivals have petrol and hybrid options, Mahindra sticks to its tried-and-tested diesel engine, making it an attractive option for highway cruisers and fleet buyers alike. The question is – does the Marazzo still hold strong in 2025 against new entrants like the Kia Carens and Hyundai Alcazar? Let’s find out.
Table of Contents
Engine, Mileage & Performance
Under the hood, the Mahindra Marazzo gets a 1.5-litre diesel engine that produces 121 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Despite being a large MPV, the engine feels refined and surprisingly capable even when fully loaded with passengers.
- City Drive: Smooth and easy, with plenty of torque available in the lower gears.
- Highway: Cruises comfortably at triple-digit speeds and has enough punch for overtakes.
- Efficiency: Expect 14–15 kmpl in city driving and close to 17 kmpl on highways, which is excellent for a 7/8-seater diesel MPV.
Performance tests show a 0–100 km/h time of around 15 seconds, respectable for its size. The gearbox is smooth, though a petrol or automatic option would have widened its appeal.
Design & Features
Exterior
The Marazzo’s shark-inspired design is its biggest talking point. From the tooth-like grille and smoked projector headlamps to the tail-fin shaped rear lamps, Mahindra has given this MPV a distinct personality. Its machine-cut 17-inch alloy wheels and sleek stance add a sporty flavour, unlike the plain-looking Ertiga or XL6.
Interior
Step inside, and the Marazzo impresses with its spacious, light-coloured cabin designed by Pininfarina.
- Front Row: Tall driving position with good visibility, though under-thigh support could be better.
- Second Row: Available with both bench and captain seat options, with a clever roof-mounted AC system featuring a “diffuse mode” that evenly distributes cool air – a big plus for Indian summers.
- Third Row: Comfortable enough for adults, unlike some rivals where it’s strictly for kids.
Other highlights include a touchscreen infotainment system, purple-lit instrument cluster, and plenty of storage spaces, though charging points are limited.
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Safety & Technology
The Marazzo scored an impressive 4-star rating in Global NCAP, making it one of the safest MPVs in its segment.
Standard Safety Kit (all variants):
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- All-disc brakes
- ISOFIX mounts
- Speed-sensing door locks
- Impact-sensing unlock
Higher variants add a reverse camera, parking sensors, and digital cluster features. However, Mahindra still offers only two airbags even on the top model – rivals like the Carens and Innova provide up to six or seven.
Colours & Variants
The Mahindra Marazzo is available in 4 colours:
- Shimmering Silver
- Oceanic Black
- Aqua Marine
- Iceberg White
Variants & Prices (On-Road Delhi)
- M2 7-Seater – ₹16.74 Lakh
- M2 8-Seater – ₹16.74 Lakh
- M4 Plus 7-Seater – ₹18.21 Lakh
- M4 Plus 8-Seater – ₹18.30 Lakh
- M6 Plus 7-Seater – ₹19.40 Lakh
- M6 Plus 8-Seater – ₹19.50 Lakh
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Spacious cabin with genuinely usable 3rd row
- Fuel-efficient diesel engine
- 4-star Global NCAP safety rating
- Smooth ride quality, even on rough roads
- Distinct shark-inspired styling
Cons
- No petrol or automatic option
- Top variant still limited to dual airbags
- Limited charging ports & convenience features
- Interiors, though spacious, feel dated compared to rivals
Price & Rivals
The Mahindra Marazzo is priced between ₹16.74 – ₹19.50 lakh (on-road Delhi).
Main Rivals:
- Maruti Suzuki XL6 / Ertiga – More affordable, petrol-only, but less spacious in the 3rd row.
- Kia Carens – Packed with features, petrol + diesel options, multiple transmissions.
- Hyundai Alcazar – Premium feel, better features, but more expensive.
- Toyota Innova Crysta – More powerful, more airbags, but priced significantly higher.
The Marazzo strikes a balance – more spacious and premium than the Ertiga/XL6, but far more affordable than the Innova.
Final Verdict
The Mahindra Marazzo is a well-rounded MPV that still makes sense in 2025. For families who need a comfortable 7/8-seater diesel with strong highway ability, it remains one of the most value-for-money options in its segment.
Yes, it misses out on modern features and an automatic gearbox, but its refined diesel engine, strong safety rating, and spacious interiors make it a smart buy for large Indian families and fleet operators. If you want a reliable people-mover without stretching to Innova money, the Marazzo deserves a serious look.
Frequently Ask Questions
Q1: Is the Mahindra Marazzo available in petrol?
No, it’s diesel-only.
Q2: Does the Mahindra Marazzo come with automatic transmission?
No, only a 6-speed manual is offered.
Q3: What is the mileage of Mahindra Marazzo?
Around 15 kmpl in city and 17 kmpl on highways.
Q4: Is the third row comfortable for adults?
Yes, the Marazzo’s third row can seat two adults comfortably, unlike many rivals.
Q5: Who are the main rivals of Marazzo?
Maruti XL6, Kia Carens, Hyundai Alcazar, and Toyota Innova Crysta.
