If you’re searching for an affordable 7-seater SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort or performance, the Mahindra XUV700 might be just what you need. But how does it fare in the competitive SUV market? Let’s take a closer look at what this impressive vehicle brings to the table.
Mahindra XUV700 Interior & Seating: Comfortable, Especially for Families
Is the Backseat Spacious?
The XUV700 offers a decent amount of space, making it a solid choice for family travel. The front seats are roomy and well-cushioned, while the second-row seats provide reasonable comfort for adults—though taller passengers might feel slightly cramped on longer trips. However, kids will find the space more than adequate.
Rear Seat Features:
- Rear blower controls for added comfort
- 12V outlet for charging devices
- Convenient cup holders and grab handles
Pros:
- Comfortable for shorter trips, even for adults
- Kid-friendly with practical features
Cons:
- Limited legroom and headroom for taller passengers
- Third-row seating is tight for grown-ups
| Variant | Engine Options | Transmission | Seating Capacity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XUV700 MX | – 2.0L Turbo Petrol – 2.2L Diesel (Lower Tune) | 6-speed Manual | 5-seater | – 8-inch infotainment system – 7-inch instrument cluster – Halogen headlamps – Steel wheels – Smart door handles – LED taillamps |
| XUV700 AX3 | – 2.0L Turbo Petrol – 2.2L Diesel (Higher Tune) | 6-speed Manual or Automatic | 5-seater (7-seater with Diesel) | – Dual 10.25-inch displays – Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay – Amazon Alexa support – LED DRLs – Connected car tech |
| XUV700 AX5 | – 2.0L Turbo Petrol – 2.2L Diesel (Higher Tune) | 6-speed Manual or Automatic | 5-seater (7-seater optional) | – Panoramic sunroof (Skyroof) – 17-inch diamond-cut alloys – LED headlamps with sequential turn indicators – Curtain airbags |
| XUV700 AX7 | – 2.0L Turbo Petrol – 2.2L Diesel (Higher Tune) | 6-speed Manual / Auto (AWD with Diesel AT) | 7-seater (6-seater optional) | – ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) – 18-inch alloys – Dual-zone climate control – Leatherette upholstery – Driver drowsiness detection |
| XUV700 AX7L | – 2.0L Turbo Petrol – 2.2L Diesel (Higher Tune) | 6-speed Automatic (AWD with Diesel) | 7-seater (6-seater optional) | – 360-degree camera – Blind View Monitor – Electronic parking brake – 3D Sony 12-speaker sound system – Ventilated front seats – Powered tailgate |
Cargo Space: Flexible but Not Class-Leading
The XUV700 provides versatile storage options. With all seats in use, cargo space is limited to 250L, but folding down the third row increases it to 550L. When all rear seats are folded, you get a generous 1,000L, making it perfect for larger loads.
Also Read about BMW X1
Cargo Space Overview:
- Third-row up: 250L
- Third-row down: 550L
- All seats folded: Over 1,000L
Pros:
- Adjustable cargo space for different needs
- Ample storage when seats are folded
Cons:
- Limited cargo room with the third row in use
Performance & Driving: Smooth but Thirsty
The XUV700 is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine, delivering close to 150 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on highways, it provides a reliable driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency:
While Mahindra claims a fuel consumption of 8L per 100km, real-world tests suggest it’s closer to 9L per 100km—a bit higher than expected but not a dealbreaker.
Driving Experience:
- Strong acceleration and smooth power delivery
- Front-wheel-drive stability, though slight torque steer under heavy acceleration
Pros:
- Good acceleration and handling for a budget SUV
- Enjoyable driving experience
Cons:
- Slightly higher fuel consumption than advertised
- Noticeable torque steer at high speeds
Ride Comfort: Impressive for the Price
The XUV700 offers a comfortable ride across different terrains. It absorbs road bumps well, making it ideal for both city and highway driving.
Handling Rough Roads:
Thanks to independent rear suspension and a well-balanced chassis, this SUV remains composed even on uneven surfaces.
Pros:
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Handles rough terrain better than expected
Cons:
- Some body roll during sharp turns
Driving Dynamics: More Fun Than Expected
Though not a sports SUV, the XUV700 delivers an engaging drive with decent steering feedback and a good mix of comfort and control.
Mahindra XUV700 Performance Numbers:
- 0-100 km/h: 9.06 seconds
- 80-120 km/h: 6.38 seconds
Pros:
- Well-balanced handling for a front-wheel-drive SUV
- Responsive when pushed
Cons:
- Acceleration is decent but not class-leading
- No all-wheel-drive option
Braking: Adequate but Not Exceptional
Braking performance is solid, with the XUV700 taking 2.97 seconds and 40.57 meters to stop from 100 km/h.
Pros:
- Safe and reliable braking distance
Cons:
- Braking is effective but not standout in its class
Tech & Visibility: Functional but With Some Issues
Visibility is generally good, thanks to large side mirrors and a well-designed front windshield. However, the rear camera has a low refresh rate, making real-time viewing less reliable. The center headrest can also obstruct the rear view, which may be inconvenient for frequent reversing.
Pros:
- Excellent visibility from the driver’s seat
- Large mirrors enhance lane-changing and parking
Cons:
- Low-quality camera feed
- Rear headrest can block visibility
Final Verdict: A Smart Pick for Budget-Conscious Buyers
The Mahindra XUV700 delivers great value for its price. It’s a budget-friendly 7-seater with a comfortable ride, decent performance, and practical cargo space. While it has minor drawbacks—such as higher-than-expected fuel consumption and some tech limitations—it remains one of the best options in its segment.
Pros:
- Affordable for a seven-seater SUV
- Comfortable and smooth ride
- Versatile cargo space
- Surprisingly fun to drive
Cons:
- Higher fuel consumption than advertised
- Minor tech flaws (camera, rear headrest)
- Not the quickest SUV in its class
For those seeking a spacious, well-equipped family SUV without breaking the bank, the Mahindra XUV700 is definitely worth considering.
What engine options are available in the Mahindra XUV700?
The XUV700 offers two engine choices
Petrol:A 2.0-litre mStallion turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 200 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque.
Diesel: A 2.2-litre mHawk turbocharged four-cylinder engine available in two tunes—155 horsepower with 360 Nm of torque, and 185 horsepower with up to 450 Nm of torque.
Is the Mahindra XUV700 available with both manual and automatic transmissions?
Yes, the XUV700 is offered with both 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options across its petrol and diesel variants.
What are the seating configurations in the Mahindra XUV700?
The XUV700 is available in both 5-seater and 7-seater configurations, catering to different passenger and family needs.
What safety features does the Mahindra XUV700 offer?
The XUV700 comes equipped with a range of safety features, including:
Multiple airbags
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
What is the fuel efficiency of the Mahindra XUV700?
Fuel efficiency varies based on the engine and transmission:
Petrol Manual: Approximately 15 km/l
Petrol Automatic: Around 13 km/l
Diesel Manual: About 17 km/l
Diesel Automatic: Close to 16.5 km/l
Does the Mahindra XUV700 come with a sunroof?
Yes, select variants of the XUV700 feature a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the cabin’s ambiance and providing an open, airy feel.
What is the boot space capacity in the Mahindra XUV700?
The boot space varies depending on the seating configuration:
With all seats up, the capacity is limited.
Folding down the third row increases the cargo area significantly, offering ample space for luggage and other items.
Guest Posting By CarVertigo
10 thoughts on “Mahindra XUV700 Review: The Budget-Friendly 7-Seater You Might Have Overlooked”