There are cars that sell well and then there are cars that change the way people think. The XUV700 did that for Mahindra. The new XUV 7XO is based on the same, but with more comfort, more technology and a more polished feel. This is not a ground-up new SUV. It is a careful upgrade, done with buyers clearly in mind.
The XUV 7XO is the facelifted version of the XUV700. It retains the same platform and engines, but enhances the appearance, feel and drive of the car. Mahindra has put their focus into comfort, ride quality, interior tech and safety.
Prices start around Rs. 13.7 Lakh and goes upto Rs. 24.92 Lakh.
Engines and gearboxes
Mahindra goes with its trusted engines.
- Petrol gets 2.0-litre turbo unit making around 200 PS and 380NM.
- Diesel is using the 2.2 litre mHawk engine with up to 185 PS and 450 Nm.
Both engines are available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Diesel buyers also receive the option of all-wheel drive on select variants. Performance is still a strong point. Power delivery is smooth and torque is strong and highway driving is effortless.
Ride and handling
This is where the most significant change is. The XUV 7XO receives new Da Vinci dampers. At low speeds the suspension remains soft and absorbs bumps well. At higher speeds, it firms up and feels stable.
Bad roads, speed breakers and broken patches are dealt with easily. Even the rebound over sharp bumps seems controlled. On the highways, the SUV remains firmly planted and confident. Steering has also been retuned and has a more precise feel than before.
Exterior updates
The design remains familiar but looks sharper. Changes include a new grille, updated LED headlamps, revised bumpers, new DRLs, and fresh tail lamps. The quality of the camera has improved and now offers a 540-degree view. Road presence remains strong and unmistakable.
Interior and features
Inside, the cabin is a giant leap forward.
You get a triple-screen configuration, with three 12.3-inch displays. The system hums along more smoothly with the help of a new processor. The screens support Dolby Vision, while the audio system gets Dolby Atmos with a powerful 16-speaker system.
Seats are redesigned and feel firmer and more supportive. Front seats are powered, ventilated and offer memory function. Second-row seats recline, are ventilated, and even get wireless charging. There is also boss mode for additional legroom.
Ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, connected car technology and a premium finish make the cabin feel truly modern.
Safety and practicality
The XUV 7XO is equipped with Level 2 ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot monitoring, and driver alert systems. It also offers seven airbags and is expected to score well in crash tests.
You can choose between 6-seat and 7-seat layouts. The third row is best for kids or short trips. Boot space is usable, though the tailgate is not powered.
Verdict
The Mahindra XUV 7XO feels like a well-thought-out upgrade. It drives better, rides more comfortably and is more premium than before. It is not perfect, but it does most things quite well. For buyers seeking a powerful, feature-packed seven-seat SUV, this is still one of the best choices in the segment.