Introduction: Mahindra’s Game-Changing SUV
The Indian SUV market has seen rapid evolution over the past decade. While brands like Hyundai, Tata, and MG Motors have aggressively updated their SUV portfolios, Mahindra took its time crafting what it hoped would be a segment disruptor. The result? The Mahindra XUV700—a premium, tech-loaded, and safety-focused SUV that aims to be everything Indian buyers have been looking for.
Unveiled in August 2021, the XUV700 serves as the spiritual successor to the highly popular XUV500, but with a complete overhaul. It carries a bold new design, two powerful engine options, an extensive list of features, and most notably, cutting-edge safety technology. With the SUV having captured both the media’s and the market’s attention, this post dives deep into every aspect of the Mahindra XUV700, from its design and performance to features, safety, pricing, and future updates.
Bold Exterior: A Head-Turner on the Roads
The Mahindra XUV700 sports an aggressive and futuristic exterior design that manages to stand out in traffic. At the front, it features a large chrome-slatted grille flanked by C-shaped LED DRLs and sleek headlamps that give it a commanding presence. The new Mahindra ‘Twin Peaks’ logo is proudly displayed, symbolizing a fresh brand identity.
From the side, the strong shoulder line, flared wheel arches, and roof rails reflect its SUV DNA. The flush-fitted door handles are an elegant touch, typically seen in more premium offerings. At the rear, wraparound LED tail lamps and a sculpted tailgate maintain a sophisticated look.
The upcoming 2026 facelift is expected to enhance these design elements further. Spy shots have hinted at a revised front grille, redesigned bumpers, and slightly tweaked headlamp clusters to keep the styling fresh.
Dimensions and Road Presence
The XUV700 has a substantial footprint:
Length: 4695 mm
Width: 1890 mm
Height: 1755 mm
Wheelbase: 2750 mm
Its tall stance, wide body, and long wheelbase make for a strong road presence and translate into ample interior space.
Interiors: A Blend of Technology and Comfort
Step inside the XUV700, and you’re greeted with a dual 10.25-inch screen setup—one for the infotainment system and the other for the digital instrument cluster. The dashboard design is clean and modern, with a mix of soft-touch materials, chrome accents, and piano black finishes.
Depending on the variant, interiors feature either premium fabric or leatherette upholstery. The top-end AX7 and AX7L trims get luxurious touches like:
Panoramic Skyroof
Electric seat adjustments with memory function
Dual-zone climate control
Ambient lighting
The infotainment system, called AdrenoX, is powered by Amazon Alexa, allowing voice commands for navigation, music, sunroof, and even climate controls.
Technology & Features Galore
The XUV700 is arguably the most tech-loaded vehicle in its segment. Here are some key features:
AdrenoX Connected Car Suite
Sony 3D Surround Sound System (with 12 speakers in AX7L)
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Amazon Alexa Integration
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold
Push Button Start and Keyless Entry
With OTA updates, Mahindra ensures that the vehicle’s software remains current.
Seating and Practicality
The XUV700 is available in both 5-seater and 7-seater configurations. The second-row seating is spacious with generous legroom and headroom. The third-row is best suited for children or shorter trips but is a welcome addition for large families.
Cargo space is competitive for the segment. With the third row up, it offers modest boot space, which increases significantly when the third row is folded.
Powertrain Options: Petrol and Diesel Excellence
Mahindra offers the XUV700 with two robust engine options:
1. 2.0L mStallion Turbo-Petrol Engine
Power: 200 PS
Torque: 380 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed MT or 6-speed AT
This engine delivers strong acceleration and smooth cruising. It is one of the most powerful petrol units in the segment.
2. 2.2L mHawk Diesel Engine
Power: 155 PS (MX variant); 185 PS (AX variants)
Torque: 360–450 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed MT or 6-speed AT
The diesel engine is known for its refinement and torque delivery, ideal for highway cruising and heavy loads. Top trims also offer All-Wheel Drive (AWD), making it suitable for mild off-roading.
Ride & Handling
Despite its size, the XUV700 handles quite well. The suspension setup is tuned to absorb most road imperfections, offering a comfortable ride. Body roll is well-controlled, and steering feedback is balanced for both city and highway use.
The AWD version adds stability during poor weather conditions or unpaved roads, making it a more versatile option for adventurers.
Safety: Setting Benchmarks
Mahindra has prioritized safety with the XUV700. It scored:
5 stars for adult protection
4 stars for child protection
…in Global NCAP crash tests. This makes it one of the safest cars in its segment.
Key safety features include:
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Emergency Braking, and more
7 Airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
360-degree camera and Blind Spot Monitoring
These features are usually reserved for luxury SUVs and make the XUV700 a pioneer in its class.
Variants and Pricing
The XUV700 comes in two broad trims:
MX Series – Entry-level, minimal features
AdrenoX (AX) Series – AX3, AX5, AX7, AX7L
Each variant is available in petrol and diesel versions, with optional automatic transmission. The top AX7L variant is loaded with every available feature.
Pricing (Ex-Showroom, India):
MX Petrol (5-Seater): ₹12.50 lakh
AX3 Diesel AT: ₹16.50 lakh
AX7L Diesel AT AWD (7-Seater): ₹25 lakh approx
This makes the XUV700 not only feature-rich but also one of the most value-for-money offerings in its category.
Real-World Experience
Owners praise the vehicle for its commanding road presence, powerful engines, and unmatched tech features. Long drives become more enjoyable with the panoramic sunroof and Sony audio system. The ADAS system, though helpful, requires a learning curve and careful use.
Minor complaints include:
Initial software glitches (mostly resolved via OTA)
Slightly firm suspension at low speeds
Large size making city driving a bit challenging for some users
Nonetheless, user satisfaction remains high, with several users describing the SUV as a ‘complete package.’
Upcoming 2026 Facelift
Mahindra is preparing a facelift for the XUV700 with enhancements like:
Triple screen layout (like Mercedes MBUX)
Heads-up Display (HUD)
Rear ventilated seats
Auto-parking feature
Sun blinds and improved 3D graphics in digital cluster
These updates will keep the XUV700 fresh and competitive in an increasingly crowded market.
Final Verdict: Is the XUV700 Worth It?
The Mahindra XUV700 delivers on all fronts—design, technology, performance, safety, and pricing. It competes against the likes of Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and MG Hector Plus, and often outclasses them in tech and safety.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a long-distance driver, or a family looking for comfort and safety, the XUV700 checks all the boxes.
Pros:
Feature-loaded at every trim level
Strong and efficient engines
Best-in-class safety features
Excellent value for money
Cons:
Large dimensions may be intimidating for city use
Diesel AWD only on top trim
Third-row space limited for adults
With the facelift around the corner, Mahindra is not resting on its laurels. The XUV700 is here to stay—and dominate.
Ready to Take the Wheel?
Book a test drive today or explore the various trims at your nearest Mahindra showroom. If you’re looking for an SUV that blends power, prestige, and practicality, the XUV700 should be at the top of your list.
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