Mahindra XUV 700: The automotive landscape in 2025 is more competitive than ever, with manufacturers constantly pushing the boundaries of technology, comfort, and performance. Among the standout contenders in the mid-size SUV segment is the Mahindra XUV 700, a vehicle that has been turning heads since its introduction. This comprehensive review delves into the various aspects of the 2025 Mahindra XUV 700, exploring its design, performance, features, and how it stacks up against its competitors.
Design and Exterior
The 2025 Mahindra XUV 700 continues to impress with its bold and sophisticated design language. The front fascia is dominated by a large grille with chrome accents, flanked by sleek LED headlights that give the SUV a modern and aggressive look. The sculpted hood and pronounced wheel arches contribute to its muscular stance, while the flowing roofline adds a touch of elegance to the overall profile.
One of the standout features of the XUV 700’s exterior is its panoramic sunroof, which extends over both rows of seats, flooding the cabin with natural light and creating an airy atmosphere. The 18-inch alloy wheels, available in both standard and black finishes, complement the vehicle’s proportions and add to its premium appeal.At the rear, the LED taillights are connected by a chrome strip, creating a wide and planted appearance. The power-operated tailgate, a feature typically found in more expensive SUVs, adds convenience for loading and unloading cargo.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the 2025 XUV 700, and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends luxury with practicality. The interior design is centered around a dual 10.25-inch screen setup – one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other as the infotainment display. This configuration not only looks modern but also provides easy access to a wealth of information and controls.
The quality of materials used throughout the cabin has seen a noticeable improvement in the 2025 model. Soft-touch surfaces, leatherette upholstery, and tasteful chrome accents create an upscale ambiance. The black interior theme, introduced in late 2024, adds a touch of sophistication and is less prone to showing wear and tear compared to the previous light-colored option.
Comfort is a priority in the XUV 700, with well-cushioned seats that provide good support for long journeys. The driver’s seat in the AX7L variant offers 6-way power adjustment with memory function, ensuring that you can find the perfect driving position. The addition of ventilated front seats in this trim level is a welcome feature, especially for those living in warmer climates.
One of the XUV 700’ key selling points is its spaciousness. The second row offers ample legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. The third row, while not as spacious as some larger SUVs, is surprisingly usable for a mid-size vehicle. It’s suitable for children or adults on shorter trips, with the added convenience of air vents and fan controls to keep occupants comfortable.
Technology and Infotainment
Mahindra has packed the 2025 XUV 700 with an impressive array of technology features. The centerpiece is the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the AX7L trim. The interface is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to navigate through various functions.
The digital instrument cluster is equally impressive, offering customizable displays that can show everything from traditional gauges to navigation information. The built-in Amazon Alexa functionality adds a layer of convenience, allowing voice control for various vehicle functions.
Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the 12-speaker sound system in the higher trims, which delivers crisp and immersive sound quality. The wireless phone charger is a thoughtful addition, eliminating the need for cables in an increasingly wireless world.
Other notable tech features include:
- Dual-zone climate control
- 360-degree camera system
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Smart door handles with proximity sensors
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The 2025 XUV 700 offers two engine options to cater to different driving preferences:
- 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine:
- Power output: 200 PS
- Torque: 380 Nm
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic:
- Power output: Up to 185 PS
- Torque: Up to 450 Nm
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
- Drive type: Front-wheel drive or All-wheel drive (AWD available only with automatic transmission)
Both engines offer strong performance, with the petrol variant providing swift acceleration and refined operation. The diesel engine, with its higher torque output, is well-suited for those who frequently carry heavy loads or plan on towing.
The XUV 700’ ride quality is generally comfortable, with a suspension setup that absorbs most road imperfections well. However, some reviewers have noted that the ride can become a bit unsettled on particularly rough surfaces. The steering is light at low speeds, making city maneuvers easy, but it could benefit from more weight and feedback at higher speeds for a more engaging driving experience.
One area where the XUV 700 has room for improvement is its tyres. The stock MRF Wanderer tyres have been criticized for their lack of grip, especially in wet conditions. Many owners opt to replace these with higher-quality aftermarket options for better performance and safety.
Safety Features
Safety is a strong suit for the 2025 XUV 700, which boasts a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP. The SUV comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Up to 7 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Control
- Hill Descent Control (on AWD variants)
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Front and rear parking sensors
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are also available on higher trims, offering features like:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keeping assist
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Traffic sign recognition
These features contribute to making the XUV 700 one of the safest vehicles in its class, providing peace of mind for families and safety-conscious buyers.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many buyers, and the XUV 700 delivers respectable figures for its class:
- Petrol variant: Claimed efficiency of 8.3 L/100km (real-world testing shows around 9.1 L/100km)
- Diesel variant: Slightly better efficiency, with exact figures varying based on driving conditions and transmission choice
Mahindra offers a 5-year/100,000 km warranty on the XUV 700, which is competitive for the segment and provides additional peace of mind for buyers. Regular maintenance costs are generally in line with other vehicles in its class, though the availability of parts and service centers may vary depending on your location.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The 2025 Mahindra XUV 700 is priced competitively, with the range starting from ₹14.49 lakh for the base MX variant and going up to ₹25.14 lakh for the top-spec AX7 Luxury Pack (prices ex-showroom). This pricing strategy positions the XUV 700 as an attractive option in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a rich feature set and strong performance at a competitive price point.
When compared to rivals like the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and Hyundai Alcazar, the XUV 700 stands out for its combination of features, performance, and value. The higher trims, in particular, offer features that are often found in more expensive luxury SUVs, making them an appealing choice for buyers looking for a premium experience without the premium price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Striking design and presence
- Feature-rich interior with advanced technology
- Powerful engine options
- Spacious cabin with usable third row
- Strong safety credentials
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Ride quality can be unsettled on rough roads
- Stock tyres lack grip, especially in wet conditions
- Steering feel could be improved at higher speeds
- Some plastic quality issues in lower trims
- Limited boot space with all seats up
Conclusion
The 2025 Mahindra XUV 700 continues to be a compelling option in the mid-size SUV segment. It successfully combines attractive styling, a feature-packed interior, strong performance, and advanced safety features at a competitive price point. While there are areas for improvement, such as the ride quality on rough surfaces and the choice of stock tyres, these are relatively minor concerns in the grand scheme of things.
For buyers looking for a versatile family SUV that doesn’t break the bank but still offers a premium feel and advanced features, the XUV 700 is definitely worth considering. Its ability to comfortably seat seven passengers, coupled with its strong engine options and comprehensive safety package, make it a practical choice for both urban commutes and long-distance travel.