Mahindra XUV 700 Review: The Segment Destroyer
When the Mahindra XUV 700 launched, it didn’t just compete; it disrupted. With features previously seen only in luxury cars and engines that punch way above their weight, the XUV 700 remains the benchmark for a premium family SUV under Rs 30 Lakhs.
📊 Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol / 2.2L mHawk Diesel |
| Power | Petrol: 200 PS / Diesel: 155 PS (MX) - 185 PS (AX) |
| Torque | Petrol: 380 Nm / Diesel: 360-450 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed MT / 6-Speed AT / AWD (Diesel Only) |
| Screen Size | Dual 10.25-inch HD Screens (Superscreen) |
| Safety | 7 Airbags, Level 2 ADAS, 5-Star Global NCAP |
🚀 Performance & Dynamic Drive
The Powerhouse Engines
The 200 PS Turbo Petrol is essentially a hot hatch engine in a large SUV body. The acceleration is blistering. The 185 PS Diesel is the sensible choice for long-distance tourers, offering great mileage and a mountain of torque (450 Nm in AT) for effortless cruising.
Handling & Comfort
The XUV 700 features Frequency Selective Damping (FSD). In simple terms, it stiffens up for handling corners and softens for bumps. The result? A ride that flatters both the driver and the passengers. It masks speed dangerously well; 120 kmph feels like 80 kmph.
🖥️ Architecture & Technology
- Integrated Dual Screens: The “Superscreen” setup looks straight out of a Mercedes. The interface is crisp, and the Adrenox system is feature-rich.
- ADAS Level 2: It works surprisingly well on Indian highways. Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist reduce fatigue significantly on long drives.
- Luxury Features: Smart door handles, memory seats with welcome retract function, and a panoramic “Skyroof” that is massive.
🧐 Understanding the Variants
The XUV 700 lineup is vast. Here is the breakdown:
- MX Series (Value King): The base model. It is shocklingly well-priced. You get the 200 PS engine, 8-inch screen, and Android Auto. Perfect if you are on a tight budget but want the big engine.
- AX3: Adds the dual 10.25-inch screens and Adrenox, but misses out on alloys.
- AX5: Adds the Panoramic Sunroof (Skyroof), Alloys, and Curtain Airbags. The most popular choice.
- AX7: The tech-loaded trim. ADAS, 6-way powered seat, and dual-zone climate control.
- AX7 L (Luxury Pack): Adds the Sony 3D Audio, 360-degree camera, Blind View Monitor, and Knee Airbag.
🛡️ ADAS in the Real World
Is ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) actually useful in India? Surprisingly, yes.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: A godsend on expressways like the Delhi-Mumbai / Samruddhi Mahamarg. It maintains distance automatically.
- Emergency Braking: Effective, but can be intrusive in chaotic city traffic. Thankfully, you can turn it off.
- Lane Keep Assist: Works well on marked roads, but can be annoying on narrow state highways.
⏳ The Waitlist Reality
The XUV 700 is notorious for its waiting periods. While they have come down, popular variants like the AX7 L Diesel AWD can still command a 3-6 month wait. The MX and AX5 variants are usually available faster.
🏁 Verdict
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Best-in-class Performance (200 PS Petrol) | ❌ While improved, some interior plastics feel average |
| ✅ Loaded with Tech (ADAS, 360 Camera, Sony 3D Audio) | ❌ No sliding middle row seats |
| ✅ Excellent Highways Cruising Ability | ❌ Petrol variant is a guzzler |
| ✅ 5-Star Safety with 7 Airbags | ❌ Glitchy infotainment in some units |
The Verdict: The Mahindra XUV 700 is currently the best all-rounder in the market. It offers the comfort of a family hauler with the performance of an enthusiast car. If you can wait out the long waiting periods, it is worth every penny.