Similar to the Scorpio N, the variety of choice in engine options on the XUV700 is a hard task to deal with if there is a limited budget involved. 

Offered in both petrol and diesel variants, the XUV700 has two engine options for diesel variants. The less powerful diesel version that you can opt for is a 2.2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder powertrain offering 153 bhp/360 Nm output, while the more powerful diesel engine puts out 182 bhp with 450 Nm torque. On the contrary, the model we tested has a 197bhp/380 Nm setup with a 6-speed automatic transmission and an RWD drivetrain. 

The lack of initial kick during launch was pretty evident in our testing, but at the rpm range from @2000 upwards, the characteristics come forth just fine. Meanwhile, if you go for the 182 bhp diesel version, the three drive modes (Zip, Zap, and Zoom) will surely quench your thirst for rapid acceleration. 

Reaching the speed limit of 110 kmph was not an issue at all once we hit the 717A National Highway. As for the mileage, the XUV700 returned around 13.01 kmpl on the highway.

Ride and Handling

The XUV700 impressed us with its mostly pliant ride quality, absorbent and flat experience even above the 60 kmph speed limit. Also, the McPherson Strut Independent suspension system kept the overall ride experience quite smooth when facing uneven surfaces. 

The seats were very comfortable up to the 2nd row, however, the engine started to get noisy once we got past the @2000 rpm rev limit. Steering rotation at low speeds proved to be easy, while we both noticed body roll to a minimum on tight corners even when doing 60+kmph. 

As soon as you step inside the XUV700’s cabin, you realize the money you spent on the car was for a reason. Comfortable, elegant, posh, and tech-savvy are the exact words to describe the XUV700’s approach to satisfying its buyers. From dashboard to door panels, the presence of soft-touch materials gives you a VIP feel; meanwhile, the ergonomic seats are wrapped up in leather upholstery, ensuring a tireless journey. You can also adjust the seating position according to your preference while sliding in and out and with the recliner application.

The seating configuration on the XUV700 that we tested was 7, and as for the headroom and legroom in the 2nd-row seating area, Abhijit wasn’t having any issues despite being a 5’10” guy. On the contrary, the third-row space is ideal for children only, as adults will suffocate for sure.

Lastly, the tech-heavy SUV has a lot to offer, and the highlight of that list is its 10-inch touchscreen infotainment display powered by AdrenoX, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You also get another 10-inch digital instrument cluster screen beside the infotainment screen. Also, smart AC, a wireless charging port and an integrated sim make you loaded with features that are essential in today’s generation. 

Boot space is where we struggled to give the SUV a proper rating. You see, according to the manufacturers, the XUV700 boasts a 366-liter boot space, but that is when the third row is folded. We could fit 3 large and 1 small luggage during our test drive from my home to my office. 

Back in 2021, when the first image of the XUV700 was leaked, people bombarded social media, praising the outside attire of the car. With a clear indication of the evolution of the XUV500, the XUV700 emerges as a new contender as far as styling goes. You can see the signature bulk on the hood with chrome finishing splashed on the front, and the most important aspect, the new design of the LED headlights, perfectly complements the new look of the SUV.

You also need to look forward to other stunning highlights like the panoramic sunroof/moonroof, roof rails, Smart Door handles, LED clear-view headlights with auto booster, etc, on the model (Mahindra XUV700 AX7 7Str AT) in which my partner Abhijit and I have experience. A more high-end variant like the “Blaze Edition” has a Blaze Red paint shade, exotic Blaze badging, black alloy wheels, and a dual-tone scheme with a black roof as standard, with a price tag of 23.64 lakhs (Petrol version).

Mahindra didn’t compromise the safety of their flagship luxury SUV. From the mid-range trim upwards (including our test model), the XUV700 features seven airbags, electronic stability control, electronic park brake, and ADAS applications, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control, as standard to ensure safety during driving at high speeds.

As for safety rating, the XUV700 received a 5-star rating from the Global NCAP authorities on crash test. 

Having spent a full day and 200+ km test-driving the XUV700, my partner and I have reached to the conclusion that the overall ride experience alongside the performance and the variety of tech features makes this Mahindra a front runner in its segment that goes toe-to-toe with the likes of Safari and Alcazar.