Mahindra, the Indian automotive giant, has shaken up the SUV segment with the introduction of the Mahindra XUV700. This feature-rich SUV boasts bold design, powerful engines, and a plethora of technology, making it a compelling choice for tech-savvy families and those seeking a feature-packed driving experience. But is the Mahindra XUV700 all flash and no substance? Let’s dive deeper and explore its strengths and weaknesses in this comprehensive review.
Table of Contents
First Impressions
The Mahindra XUV700 grabs attention with its imposing presence. The muscular design features a Unmissable Satan-chrome grille flanked by clear viewed LED Headlamps. The sharp creases along the body and the prominent wheel arches give it a dynamic stance. Overall, the Mahindra XUV700 walks the line between ruggedness and sophistication, appealing to a broad audience.
Stepping inside, the initial impression is The Intelligent Cockpit. Key features of the Mahindra XUV700 are a 10.25-inch Touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and, a six-way powered driver seat and up to 12 speakers. The leather strip across the dashboard feels premium, but the use of piano black plastic on certain parts can appear cheap and prone to scratches.
Despite these minor hiccups, the overall cabin ambience leans towards comfort. The seats are well-bolstered and provide good support for long journeys. The panoramic skyroof further enhances the feeling of spaciousness, particularly for passengers in the first two rows. However, the third row, while usable for occasional use or children, might feel cramped for taller adults.
Performance Tailored for Your Needs
Mahindra offers the XUV700 with two engine options – a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine and a 2.2-liter diesel engine. The petrol engine delivers a punchy 200 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque, offering a spirited driving experience. The diesel engine, on the other hand, prioritizes fuel efficiency with 185 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque. Both engines are mated to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission with paddle shifters for those who crave a more engaging driving experience.
The XUV700 prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, offering a composed ride, especially on highways. However, the steering feedback could be more communicative for those who enjoy a more dynamic driving experience. The XUV700 comes with various drive modes – Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Off-road. Also Zip, Zap, and Zoom drive modes. These modes adjust engine response, steering feel, and transmission behavior to suit your driving situation.
Technology Takes Center Stage
The XUV700’s biggest selling point is its technology suite. The aforementioned dual-screen setup is a real showstopper. The infotainment system boasts a user-friendly interface with connected car features, voice commands, and a plethora of entertainment options. The digital instrument cluster is customizable and displays essential driving information in a clear and concise manner.
Mahindra has also equipped the XUV700 with a comprehensive driver-assistance system package (ADAS). This includes features like adaptive cruise control with lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. While some users might find the lane keep assist a little intrusive on Indian roads, these features undoubtedly enhance safety and provide valuable assistance during long journeys.
Practicality for Everyday Life
The XUV700 caters well to families with its spacious interiors and flexible seating configurations. With ample legroom and headroom in the first two rows, passengers will find comfort on long journeys. The third row, while best suited for occasional use, offers additional seating flexibility. The cargo space is generous, accommodating luggage for weekend getaways or a grocery shopping spree.
However, fuel efficiency might be a concern for some, particularly with the petrol engine. While Mahindra claims impressive figures on paper, real-world driving might yield lower mileage. The diesel engine might be a more fuel-efficient option for those who prioritize long-distance travel.
- Petrol Manual: 17 kmpl
- Petrol Automatic: 13 kmpl
- Diesel Manual: 17 kmpl
- Diesel Automatic: 16.57 kmpl
Note: The Mahindra XUV700 mileage varies depending on the fuel type and transmission.
Features of Mahindra XUV700
Design and Exterior:
- Flush-fitting door handles
- LED headlamps with integrated C-shaped LED DRLs
- 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
- Shark-fin antenna
- Two-piece LED taillight setup
- Available in five color options: Dazzling Silver, Red Rage, Everest White, Electric Blue, and Midnight Black
Midnight Black:
- Interior and Comfort
- Dual 10.25-inch screens for the infotainment system and digital driver’s display
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
- Alexa AI connectivity
- 12-speaker Sony 3D sound system
- Powered driver’s seat with memory function
- Ventilated front seats
- Memory ORVMs
- Dual-zone climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Cruise control
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Ambient lighting
Safety and Driver Assistance:
- Seven airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Front and rear parking sensors
- 360-degree camera
- Electronic stability control
- Driver fatigue warning
- ADAS features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and high beam assist
- 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP
Performance:
- 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 200PS and 380Nm
- 2.2-litre diesel engine generating up to 185PS and 450Nm
- Available with manual and automatic transmission options
Mahindra XUV700 Alexa Commands List:
The XUV700 infotainment system integrates Amazon Alexa, allowing users to control various features using voice commands.
- Volume and Brightness Control
- Media Control
- Navigation and Information
- Home Integration
- General Information and Online Content
- Driver Information System (DIS) Control
- Open and Close the skyroof using Alexa voice commands
The various features of the XUV700, including infotainment, navigation, climate control, and more, using voice commands with Alexa integration.
Value Proposition: A Feature-Rich Package at a Competitive Price
The XUV700 offers a compelling value proposition. The starting price is competitive compared to its rivals in the mid-size SUV segment. The Mahindra XUV700 price in India ranges from ₹ 13.99 Lakh to ₹ 26.99 Lakh. However, the higher-end variants with all the bells and whistles can get expensive. Considering the extensive feature list, including the segment-leading dual-screen setup, ADAS features, and a comfortable cabin, the XUV700 offers good value for the price-conscious buyer.
Mahindra xuv700 on road price:
The on-road price of the Mahindra XUV700 varies across different cities in India.
- Bangalore: ₹ 17.55 – 33.99 Lakh
- Mumbai: ₹ 16.71 – 32.64 Lakh
- Pune: ₹ 17.22 – 32.64 Lakh
- Hyderabad: ₹ 17.95 – 33.45 Lakh
- Chennai: ₹ 18.09 – 34.25 Lakh
- Ahmedabad: ₹ 16.36 – 30.21 Lakh
- Lucknow: ₹ 16.48 – 31.26 Lakh
- Jaipur: ₹ 16.56 – 32.28 Lakh
- Patna: ₹ 16.45 – 31.94 Lakh
- Chandigarh: ₹ 15.79 – 30.72 Lakh
Note: These prices are inclusive of all applicable taxes and fees
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options
Pros (continued):
- Powerful and refined engine options (both petrol and diesel)
- Feature-rich cabin with dual-screen infotainment system and digital instrument cluster
- Comprehensive driver-assistance system (ADAS) package enhances safety
- Spacious and comfortable interiors with flexible seating configurations
- Competitive starting price and good value proposition for features offered
Cons:
- Inconsistent material quality in some areas of the cabin
- Third-row seating might be cramped for taller adults
- Petrol engine might be less fuel-efficient in real-world driving conditions
- Steering feedback could be more communicative for a more engaging driving experience
- After-sales service experiences might vary depending on dealership
A Strong Contender with Room for Improvement
The Mahindra XUV700 is a significant leap forward for the Indian automaker. It boasts a bold design, powerful engines, a feature-rich cabin with the latest technology, and comfortable interiors. The ADAS features are a welcome addition, enhancing safety and driver assistance. However, some inconsistencies in material quality and a potentially cramped third row hold it back from achieving segment perfection.
Overall, the XUV700 is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, particularly for tech-savvy families and those seeking a feature-packed driving experience. If you prioritize cutting-edge technology, safety features, and a comfortable cabin at a competitive price, the Mahindra XUV700 is definitely worth considering. However, if you prioritize a more engaging driving experience, superior cabin materials, or a spacious third row, you might want to explore other options in the segment.
The final decision depends on your individual needs and priorities. Take the Mahindra XUV700 for a test drive and see if it checks all the boxes for your perfect SUV.
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