Mahindra XUV 700 : Mahindra & Mahindra, a name synonymous with rugged utility vehicles, has taken a bold leap into the premium SUV segment with the launch of the XUV 700.
This latest offering from the Indian automaker is not just an upgrade to its predecessor; it’s a complete reimagining of what a luxury SUV can be, blending cutting-edge technology, powerful performance, and opulent comfort in a package that’s set to challenge both domestic and international competitors.
Mahindra XUV 700 Design: A Head-Turner on the Road
The XUV 700 makes a striking first impression with its imposing presence and sophisticated design language
The front fascia is dominated by a bold grille featuring Mahindra’s new ‘twin peaks’ logo, flanked by sleek LED headlamps with C-shaped daytime running lights.
This arrangement gives the SUV a distinctive and modern look that sets it apart in a crowded segment.
Moving to the side profile, the XUV 700 showcases a strong character line that runs the length of the vehicle, creating a sense of motion even when stationary.
The large wheel arches, housing alloy wheels up to 18 inches in diameter, contribute to the SUV’s muscular stance.
One of the most talked-about design features is the flush-fitting door handles, which pop out when the vehicle is unlocked, adding a touch of theatre to the everyday act of entering the car.
At the rear, the LED taillights are connected by a chrome strip, creating a sense of width and sophistication.
The tailgate design is clean and uncluttered, with the license plate positioned lower on the bumper, enhancing the vehicle’s premium appeal.
Mahindra XUV 700 Interior: A Blend of Luxury and Technology
Step inside the XUV 700, and you’re greeted by an interior that rivals luxury vehicles costing significantly more.
The dashboard is dominated by a dual-screen setup, reminiscent of high-end German luxury cars.
This arrangement consists of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, both housed under a single piece of glass, creating a seamless and modern look.
The quality of materials used throughout the cabin is impressive, with soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery, and brushed aluminum accents creating an ambiance of understated luxury.
The attention to detail is evident in elements like the knurled finish on the control knobs and the ambient lighting that can be customized to suit the driver’s mood.
Comfort is a top priority in the XUV 700, with features like ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone climate control available on higher trims.
The second row offers ample legroom and can be had with captain’s chairs in some variants, while a third row is available for those needing additional seating capacity.
Mahindra XUV 700 Powertrains: Performance to Match the Looks
Under the hood, the XUV 700 offers a choice of powerful and refined engines. The petrol option is a 2.0-liter turbocharged unit producing an impressive 200 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque.
For those preferring diesel, there’s a 2.2-liter turbocharged engine available in two states of tune: 155 hp for lower variants and a potent 185 hp for higher trims, with torque figures ranging from 360 Nm to 450 Nm depending on the variant.
Both engines can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. In a segment-first move, Mahindra also offers an all-wheel-drive option on select diesel variants, enhancing the XUV 700’s capability in challenging road conditions.
The performance of these powertrains is noteworthy, with the petrol variant capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds, while the top-spec diesel AWD variant isn’t far behind.
More importantly, the refinement levels of both engines are impressive, with minimal noise and vibration intruding into the cabin, even at higher speeds.
Mahindra XUV 700 Technology: A Leap into the Future
Where the XUV 700 truly shines is in its technology offerings. The infotainment system, dubbed AdrenoX, is one of the most advanced in its class.
It features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in Alexa voice assistant, and over-the-air update capability.
The system can also be connected to the Mahindra smartphone app, allowing owners to remotely control various vehicle functions.
One of the standout features is the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), a first for an Indian-made vehicle in this segment.
This suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition.
While these features are common in more expensive luxury vehicles, their inclusion in the XUV 700 represents a significant step forward for safety technology in the Indian market.
Other notable tech features include a 12-speaker Sony 3D sound system, a 360-degree camera system, and a driver drowsiness detection system.
The XUV 700 also offers a customizable drive mode selector, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance characteristics to their preferences or road conditions.
Mahindra XUV 700 Safety: Setting New Standards
Mahindra has placed a strong emphasis on safety with the XUV 700. In addition to the ADAS features mentioned earlier, the SUV comes equipped with up to seven airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill hold assist.
The body structure has been engineered to provide excellent crash protection, utilizing high-strength steel in critical areas.
The XUV 700’s commitment to safety has been validated by its performance in Global NCAP crash tests, where it achieved a 5-star rating for adult occupant protection and a 4-star rating for child occupant protection, making it one of the safest vehicles produced in India.
Mahindra XUV 700 Market Positioning and Competition
With its combination of luxury features, powerful performance, and advanced technology, the XUV 700 positions itself as a premium offering in the mid-size SUV segment.
It competes directly with vehicles like the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and even encroaches on the territory of more expensive models like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour.
Pricing for the XUV 700 starts at a competitive point for the base variants, with higher trims reaching into premium SUV territory.
This pricing strategy allows Mahindra to cater to a wide range of customers, from those looking for a well-equipped family SUV to buyers seeking a luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles.
Mahindra XUV 700 Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Mahindra
The XUV 700 represents a significant milestone for Mahindra & Mahindra. It showcases the company’s ability to produce a world-class vehicle that can compete with established international brands in terms of design, technology, and performance.
More than just a new model, the XUV 700 is a statement of intent from Mahindra, signaling its ambition to be taken seriously as a global automaker.
For consumers, the XUV 700 offers an compelling package that combines the best of Indian ingenuity with world-class engineering.
It brings features and technologies previously reserved for luxury brands to a more accessible price point, potentially reshaping expectations in the mid-size SUV segment.
As the automotive industry moves towards electrification and increased automation, the XUV 700 demonstrates that Mahindra is well-positioned to navigate these changes.
The inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems and connected car technology lays the groundwork for future innovations, ensuring that the XUV 700 remains relevant in the years to come.
In conclusion, the Mahindra XUV 700 is more than just a new SUV; it’s a bold statement from an Indian automaker that it can compete on the global stage.
With its blend of striking design, luxurious interiors, powerful performance, and cutting-edge technology, the XUV 700 is poised to not only succeed in the domestic market but also to potentially make waves internationally.
It represents a new chapter for Mahindra and sets a new benchmark for what consumers can expect from an Indian-made premium SUV.