In the ever-evolving landscape of India’s automotive sector, few vehicles have made as significant an impact as the Mahindra XUV700. Launched in 2021 as the spiritual successor to the popular XUV500, this mid-size SUV has not merely continued its predecessor’s legacy but substantially raised the bar in its segment.
With its blend of commanding presence, cutting-edge technology, powerful performance, and impressive safety credentials, the XUV700 represents Mahindra’s ambitious vision for the future of Indian SUVs while remaining firmly rooted in the company’s core philosophy of delivering value and capability.
Design Philosophy: Sophisticated Aggression
The XUV700’s exterior design language can best be described as “sophisticated aggression” – a departure from the more flamboyant styling of its predecessor while retaining the muscular proportions expected of a Mahindra SUV.
The front fascia is dominated by a bold grille with vertical slats, flanked by sharp LED headlights featuring distinctive C-shaped daytime running lights that have become something of a signature element for the vehicle.
The profile reveals clean lines and a balanced stance, with the 18-inch alloy wheels on higher variants filling the arches nicely and contributing to the vehicle’s planted look.
One of the most talked-about design elements is the flush-fitting door handles that extend outward when the vehicle is unlocked – a premium touch rarely seen in this segment.
The rear complements the front with distinctive LED taillights and a clean tailgate design that eschews unnecessary embellishments.
For 2025, Mahindra has expanded the aesthetic options with the introduction of the Ebony Edition, which features an exclusive Stealth Black exterior (replacing the previous Napoli Black) complemented by blacked-out elements including the grille, ORVMs, and 18-inch alloy wheels, with silver front and rear skid plates providing subtle contrast.
The XUV700 is offered in a range of colors including Everest White, Midnight Black, Dazzling Silver, Red Rage, Electric Blue, and the new Stealth Black, allowing buyers to choose a shade that matches their personal style while maintaining the vehicle’s distinctive presence on the road.
Dimensional Presence
Size matters in the SUV segment, and the XUV700 delivers impressive proportions that translate to both road presence and interior space.
Measuring 4,695mm in length, 1,890mm in width, and 1,755mm in height, with a substantial wheelbase of 2,750mm, the XUV700 strikes an optimal balance between exterior footprint and interior volume.
These dimensions position it favorably against competitors in the mid-size SUV segment, with the generous wheelbase particularly benefiting interior legroom.
The ground clearance of approximately 200mm ensures that the XUV700 can navigate rough terrain and urban obstacles with confidence, while the turning radius of 5.95 meters is reasonable considering the vehicle’s size.
Powertrains: Choice and Capability
Mahindra has equipped the XUV700 with a choice of potent powertrains to suit different preferences and requirements.
The petrol option is a 2.0-liter mStallion turbocharged unit producing 200 PS of power and 380 Nm of torque – making it one of the most powerful petrol engines in its class.
For those preferring diesel, there’s a 2.2-liter mHawk turbocharged engine available in two states of tune: 155 PS/360 Nm for the entry-level MX series and an impressive 185 PS with either 420 Nm (manual transmission) or 450 Nm (automatic transmission) for the higher AX series.
Both engines can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, with the diesel automatic combination generally regarded as the sweet spot in the range.
The higher variants of the diesel automatic also offer the option of all-wheel drive, making the XUV700 one of the few vehicles in its segment to provide this capability.
The real-world performance of these powertrains impresses, with the petrol engine offering crisp response and strong mid-range acceleration, while the diesel provides effortless cruising ability and excellent torque for overtaking maneuvers.
The automatic transmission complements both engines well, with smooth shifts and intelligent gear selection, though enthusiastic drivers may still prefer the control offered by the manual gearbox.
Fuel efficiency is reasonable given the power outputs, with real-world figures of around 13-14 km/l for the petrol and 16-17 km/l for the diesel variants under mixed driving conditions.
These figures represent a good balance between performance and economy, though they naturally vary depending on driving style and conditions.
Interior: Space and Sophistication
Step inside the XUV700, and the first impression is one of space and sophistication.
The dashboard features a clean, horizontal design dominated by twin 10.25-inch screens – one for the digital instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system. This setup creates an impression of technological sophistication that sets the tone for the entire cabin.
Material quality is generally good, with soft-touch surfaces at key contact points and durable plastics elsewhere.
The overall fit and finish represent a significant step up from previous Mahindra offerings, though some competitors still edge ahead in terms of absolute quality and attention to detail.
The Ebony Edition takes the interior ambiance in a sportier direction with an all-black theme replacing the standard beige-black combination.
Seating comfort is a highlight, with well-bolstered front seats that offer good support during long journeys.
The driver’s seat in higher variants features 6-way power adjustment with memory function, though it’s worth noting that the passenger seat lacks power adjustment even in top-spec models.
The second row provides ample space for three adults with good headroom and legroom, while the third row, though best suited for children or smaller adults on shorter journeys, is more usable than in many competitors.
Practical touches abound, with numerous storage compartments distributed throughout the cabin, including a cooled glovebox, door pockets that accommodate 1-liter bottles, and cupholders in the center console.
The panoramic sunroof – one of the largest in the segment – floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of spaciousness.
Technology: Cutting-Edge Conveniences
The XUV700 has made a name for itself with its impressive technology suite, establishing new benchmarks in its segment.
The dual 10.25-inch screens form the centerpiece of this technological showcase, with the infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay – features that were relatively rare at the vehicle’s price point at launch.
The AdrenoX connected car platform integrates Amazon Alexa functionality, allowing voice control of various vehicle functions and providing access to over 70 connected features.
The system includes built-in navigation, an SOS call function, and remote vehicle operations through a smartphone app.
Audio quality is impressive through the 12-speaker Sony sound system available in higher variants, while a wireless charging pad for compatible devices adds to the convenience factor.
The customizable digital instrument cluster provides all essential information clearly, with different themes available to suit driver preferences.
Other notable technology features include:
Multi-zone climate control with air purifier
360-degree surround-view camera system
Electronic parking brake with auto hold
Smart door handles with welcome function
Drive modes affecting engine response and steering feel
Terrain modes on AWD variants to optimize traction in different conditions
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Perhaps the most discussed technological aspect of the XUV700 is its comprehensive suite of ADAS features – a first for an Indian-manufactured vehicle in this price segment. The Level 2 ADAS suite includes:
Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead by automatically adjusting speed
Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift without signaling
Autonomous Emergency Braking: Applies the brakes if an imminent collision is detected
Traffic Sign Recognition: Identifies road signs and displays them on the instrument cluster
Smart Pilot Assist: Combines adaptive cruise control and lane keeping for semi-autonomous highway driving
High Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic
While these systems work well overall, particularly on well-marked highways, they do have limitations on India’s often unpredictable roads.
Mahindra has calibrated them specifically for Indian conditions, striking a balance between assistance and unnecessary intervention.
Safety: A Cornerstone Priority
Safety has clearly been a priority in the XUV700’s development, with the vehicle securing a 5-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests.
The robust structure incorporates high-strength steel in critical areas, providing excellent protection in the event of a collision.
The comprehensive safety equipment list includes:
Up to 7 airbags (driver, passenger, side, curtain, and driver knee)
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with rollover mitigation
All-wheel disc brakes with ABS, EBD, and brake assist
ISOFIX child seat anchors
Driver drowsiness detection
360-degree camera with blind spot monitoring
Tire pressure monitoring system
These features combine to make the XUV700 one of the safest vehicles available in the Indian market, providing peace of mind for family-oriented buyers.
Driving Dynamics: Balancing Comfort and Control
The XUV700’s driving dynamics represent a well-judged compromise between comfort and control – essential for a vehicle that needs to excel both as a family mover and as a capable all-rounder.
The suspension setup consists of a front MacPherson strut and a rear multi-link arrangement, delivering a ride quality that absorbs road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure during more dynamic driving.
Highway stability is impressive, with the XUV700 feeling planted and secure at cruising speeds.
The steering, while light enough for easy maneuverability in urban settings, weights up progressively at higher speeds to provide decent feedback. Body roll is well-contained for a vehicle of this size and height, inspiring confidence during cornering maneuvers.
The braking system, featuring disc brakes all around, provides strong and consistent stopping power, though some drivers might prefer a firmer pedal feel.
Overall, the XUV700 delivers a driving experience that balances comfort, refinement, and capability in a way that suits its positioning as a premium family SUV with genuine versatility.
Variants and Pricing: Something for Everyone
The XUV700 is available in an extensive range of variants catering to different requirements and budgets. The lineup is divided into two main series:
MX Series: These entry-level variants focus on essential features at a more accessible price point, available with both petrol and diesel engines in 5 and 7-seat configurations.
AX Series: These higher-spec variants (AX3, AX5, AX7) progressively add more features and luxury touches, with the top-spec AX7 Luxury Pack offering the full suite of equipment including ADAS features.
Starting at approximately ₹14.49 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base MX petrol variant and extending to around ₹25.74 lakh for the top-spec AX7 Luxury AWD diesel automatic, the XUV700 spans a wide price range that allows it to compete across multiple segments of the market.
This pricing strategy has proven successful, with the sweet spot for many buyers being the mid-range AX5 variants that balance feature content with value.
The recent introduction of the Ebony Edition has added another dimension to the lineup, offering distinctive styling for those seeking to stand out from the crowd.
Ownership Experience: The Complete Package
Beyond the vehicle itself, Mahindra has worked to enhance the overall ownership experience of the XUV700. The standard warranty package covers 3 years or 100,000 kilometers, with extended warranty options available for those seeking additional peace of mind.
Service intervals are set at 10,000 kilometers or 12 months, whichever comes first, with service costs generally competitive for the segment.
Mahindra’s service network has expanded significantly in recent years, improving accessibility for owners across the country.
Resale value is expected to remain strong, given the XUV700’s popularity and Mahindra’s established reputation in the SUV segment. The vehicle’s strong feature set and safety credentials should help maintain its desirability in the used car market.
Market Position and Competition
Since its launch, the XUV700 has firmly established itself as a significant player in the mid-size SUV segment, consistently achieving monthly sales figures of around 7,000 units.
This puts it among the top-selling vehicles in its class, with a market share of approximately 26% according to recent data.
The XUV700 competes in a crowded segment that includes models like the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, Hyundai Alcazar, and to some extent, the lower variants of the Toyota Fortuner.
Against these competitors, the XUV700 distinguishes itself through its combination of powerful engines, advanced technology, comprehensive safety features, and competitive pricing.
Particularly noteworthy is the XUV700’s value proposition at its price point – offering features and capabilities that often match or exceed those of significantly more expensive vehicles.
This positioning has resonated with Indian consumers looking for premium features without stretching to luxury brand price points.
Evolution and Updates
Despite the XUV700’s relatively recent launch, Mahindra has continued to refine the offering through subtle updates and new variants.
The most significant recent addition is the Ebony Edition, which introduces visual enhancements while maintaining the core feature set.
There have also been strategic price adjustments for certain variants, with reductions of up to ₹75,000 for select high-end models, improving the value proposition further.
These moves demonstrate Mahindra’s commitment to keeping the XUV700 competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
According to industry reports, Mahindra does not plan a major facelift for the XUV700 in 2025, suggesting confidence in the current product’s appeal and competitiveness.
Instead, the focus appears to be on consolidating the vehicle’s market position through targeted enhancements and special editions.
Real-World Ownership Insights
Owner feedback on the XUV700 has been predominantly positive, with particular praise for its powerful engines, feature-rich cabin, and commanding road presence.
The spacious interior and comfortable ride quality make it well-suited for family use, while the capable powertrains and robust construction inspire confidence during longer journeys.
Some common observations from owners include:
The diesel automatic combination offers the best balance of performance and efficiency
The panoramic sunroof is a popular feature, especially with rear-seat passengers
The ADAS features, while not perfect in all conditions, provide valuable assistance on highways
Third-row space is limited for adults but adequate for children and occasional use
Initial software issues have largely been addressed through updates
Areas where some owners have noted room for improvement include:
Interior plastic quality in some lower-contact areas
Occasional electronic glitches in early production vehicles
Fuel efficiency in heavy urban traffic, particularly for petrol variants
Limited boot space when all three rows are in use
Mahindra XUV 700 : A Watershed Moment for Indian SUVs
The Mahindra XUV700 represents a watershed moment not just for Mahindra but for the Indian automotive industry as a whole.
It demonstrates that an Indian manufacturer can produce a vehicle that competes on equal footing with international brands in terms of design, technology, safety, and performance – all while maintaining the value proposition that domestic consumers expect.
The XUV700’s successful blend of aspirational features with practical utility has clearly resonated with the market, as evidenced by its strong sales performance and the substantial waiting periods it commanded following its launch.
By pushing the boundaries of what’s expected in its segment, particularly in terms of technology and safety, it has raised customer expectations across the board.
For Mahindra, the XUV700 serves as a flagship that showcases the company’s capabilities and direction. The lessons learned and technologies developed for this model are likely to influence the brand’s future offerings, potentially elevating the entire lineup.
In the broader context of the Indian automotive landscape, the XUV700 stands as evidence of the maturing market – where consumers increasingly demand global standards of quality, features, and safety without compromising on value.
It represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the Indian SUV, combining international-level attributes with deep understanding of local conditions and preferences.
As the automotive industry continues its transformation, with electrification and advanced autonomy on the horizon, the XUV700 has established a solid foundation upon which Mahindra can build its future innovations.
For now, it remains one of the most compelling options in its segment – a thoughtfully designed, well-executed SUV that delivers on its promises and offers genuine versatility for the diverse needs of Indian consumers.