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The Advertiser
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2025 Mahindra XUV700 AX7L review
Mahindra XUV700 Pros Mahindra XUV700 Cons Families of Australia take note – the Mahindra XUV700 is the cheapest seven-seater in the country. Priced from just $39,990 drive-away, the updated XUV700 mid-size SUV is more affordable than base seven-seat versions of the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander – both staples of Aussie family life. And that's not to say Mahindra's offering skimps out on standard equipment. It was already generously equipped in pre-facelift guise, but it's also gained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats and mirror memory functions with this latest update. So, what's not to love? Well, the looks, for one. The XUV700 deserves better than the 18-inch wheels fitted to each corner as standard, and there's a disconnect between the front and rear styling. Further, the Mahindra brand is better known for tractors than plush SUVs, and it'll take some time to build credibility in the Australian automotive space. WATCH: Paul's review of the Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition For that reason, models like the XUV700 are crucial to Mahindra's success Down Under. Does this family hauler have what it takes to be the catalyst for a local sales spike? We spent a week in a mid-spec AX7L to find out. The Mahindra XUV700 lineup has received a handful of upgrades for 2025, resulting in $3000 price hikes for both the entry-level AX7 and flagship AX7L. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool Feedback on the white upholstery mustn't have been particularly positive, because it's been dropped for this update in favour of a safer black on black colour scheme. The interior feels less 'blingy' as a result, expanding the pool of potential buyers for this seven-seat family SUV. However, gloss black plastic is still in strong supply – a finish that looks premium when new but shows signs of wear and tear quickly. A significant portion of the interior surfaces are finished in less shiny but still hard and scratchy plastic, with softer leatherette limited to the seats, armrests and front section of the dash. The steering wheel is wrapped in real leather, although it doesn't feel especially high-end. Nevertheless, the quality of materials is on par with similarly priced rivals. While the seats present well, they let the XUV700 down from a comfort perspective. Even in their lowest setting, the front pews sit far too high in the cabin, limiting headroom for taller drivers. On top of that, the base cushion is far too firm, and lateral support is lacking. Adjustments can be made via Mercedes-Benz-style controls built into the door cards, although I was unable to get truly comfortable. This specced up AX7L comes with three-stage seat ventilation but no heating, which isn't all that surprising considering this vehicle's country of origin. In addition to ventilated front seats, 2025 examples of the AX7L feature wireless smartphone mirroring, which is now standard across the XUV700 range. It's a welcome convenience upgrade for the model, and you still get two USB-A wired connection outlets. There's also a wireless charging pad. However, the interior technology in the XUV700 still leaves plenty to be desired. A single wraparound panel houses the infotainment and instrument displays, which both measure 10.25 inches in diameter. The former features Mahindra's own Adrenox connected car technology platform, a system that's thoroughly modern but not quite as polished as others in market. For example, the infotainment system takes a while to boot up after starting the car, and we experienced numerous glitches and quirks during our week-long loan including a frozen volume readout, Apple CarPlay dropouts, and slow loading speeds. That said, the visuals are crisp and the menus are easy to navigate. The digital instrument cluster is similarly uncluttered. A customisable centre readout is flanked by a pair of digital gauges – nice and simple, although not particularly inspiring. Then again, props to Mahindra for integrating CarPlay navigation into the cluster display, which allows you to view directions without glancing across to the infotainment screen. Once again, the graphic design of the driver display is reminiscent of modern Mercedes-Benz models… I'm starting to see a trend here. But unlike current Mercs, the Mahindra sports a traditional cabin layout with plenty of physical switchgear including a BMW-style rotary controller. While it's great to have that option, I still preferred to use the touchscreen. Conventional buttons and dials dominate the climate control panel – another tick for useability – but there's no temperature readout, which forces the operator to refer to the infotainment screen when adjusting settings. The XUV700 is blessed with ample cabin storage – a trait that helps it stand out from the family SUV crowd. Headlining the set of solutions is quite possibly the biggest glovebox I've ever seen in a car, while the centre console is likewise deep and ventilated, too. A host of additional cubbies are scattered around the cabin, with dedicated areas for drink bottles, sunglasses and smaller knick-knacks. Moving back, the second row is reasonably well equipped for the demands of a busy family. Taking into account legroom and headroom, there's enough room for two taller adults to sit in comfort, or three smaller types. While the panoramic sunroof eats into overhead space, you get some back courtesy of a split-reclining bench. Second-row amenities include shallow map pockets, a single USB-C outlet for rear occupants to fight over, dual air vents, and a centre armrest with undersized cupholders. Nothing to brag about, but I'd hardly call the space oppressive either. And the XUV700 has a not-so-interesting party trick – a third row of seats. From the outside looking in, it's hard to imagine the rear seats are particularly comfy, but you'd be surprised. While difficult to access, the back-back is actually quite usable, with above average legroom and just enough headroom for shorter persons. Considering the XUV700 is essentially a mid-size SUV, that's ultra impressive. Equally impressive is the inclusion of a 12V power socket, cupholders on either side, and air vents with fan controls. That's a generous back row, if you ask me. The same can't be said of the boot. Mahindra doesn't quote a boot capacity figure, but there's only room for a few grocery bags when the third row is in place. Fold it down and you can fit bulkier items, which slide in easily as there's no annoying load lip. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The entire Mahindra XUV700 range is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine driving the front wheels only. Diesel power and all-wheel drive are available in other markets, along with the option of a manual transmission. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The XUV700 performs adequately in relaxed city driving, but beyond those confines you quickly notice its low dynamic ceiling. Rolling around the suburbs at up to 60km/h, this family-friendly SUV is softly sprung and easy to steer, with a rack that's almost too light. The turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine is relatively refined, too – a healthy 380Nm of torque is available from just 1750rpm, so it's easy to make quick progress, and I rarely noticed an excess of noise or vibration from under the bonnet. Likewise, the six-speed automatic transmission is agreeable in its operation, offering smooth upshifts and snappy downshifts. I will take issue with the brake pedal though, as the stopper in our tester moved laterally in its housing and provided little feedback unless firmly pressed. The auto-hold system is also clunky and unpleasant to use – when you attempt to take off from a standing start the car feels like it's momentarily stuck in quicksand, which makes smooth getaways difficult. That's especially grating in stop-start traffic, so I chose to disable the system completely. It's all about smooth inputs with the XUV700. Visibility from the driver's seat is excellent, especially given the higher-than-normal driving position. Chunky side mirrors support your natural range of vision, which is unimpeded in all directions. That makes the XUV700 a relatively simple beast to park, and the AX7L comes equipped with high-resolution surround-view and reversing cameras that prove helpful in tight confines. Cracks start to appear in the refinement of the XUV700 once you cross city limits and hit the highway. The powertrain will quietly cruise at 1800rpm on a stretch of 80km/h road, but it's in those situations that road and wind noise ramp up to disruptive levels. All versions of this model feature Smart Pilot Assist – Mahindra's take on semi-autonomous driving technology. While the adaptive cruise element of the system works well, the lane centring lacks finesse in its calibration, often bouncing the car between lane markings. Blind spot support comes in the form of cameras fitted to the side mirrors that project a live feed onto the instrument cluster, which sounds more advanced than it is in reality. Picture quality is low, and the feed flashes onto the driver display in peculiar situations, like when you're making a basic turn at a set of traffic lights. Other safety systems in the XUV700 are less random in their operation. The traffic sign recognition feature never punishes you for its own failures, and there's no intrusive driver attention monitoring system. While the XUV700 remains competent as a highway cruiser, it falls down on a country road. As previously alluded too, the steering is so light that it feels a bit disconnected from the front wheels – disconcerting when you're tackling a twisty stretch of tarmac. And there's not much to love from a handling perspective, as this soft and squishy family SUV understeers through corners with plenty of body roll, even at moderate speeds. I was particularly disappointed by XUV700's lack of wet grip at city speeds. Quite simply, the budget-friendly MRF Wanderer tyres aren't up to task, scrabbling for traction under modest throttle inputs when the roads are a bit greasy, although it's easy to replace them. On test here is the middle-of-the-range XUV700 AX7L. 2025 Mahindra XUV700 AX7 equipment highlights: The AX7L adds: The Black Edition adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 has yet to be assessed by ANCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: AX7L adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 is backed by a generous seven-year, 150,000km warranty including seven years of roadside assist. Servicing is generally required every 12 months or 15,000km, although an initial round of maintenance is required at one month or 1500km and the second service is due at 10,000km. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool There's more to the Mahindra XUV700 than a cheap as chips sticker price. In AX7L trim, it's a spacious and well-equipped family seven-seater with a long warranty, all the latest safety tech, and a gutsy turbo engine. As far as showroom appeal goes, there's certainly more here than you'll find in a base Outlander or X-Trail. However, the XUV700 doesn't come close to those segment mainstays as a driving machine. It's soft and lacks feel behind the wheel, which will prove disappointing to those making the switch from proven Japanese rivals. Taller buyers will also be put off by the awkward ergonomics. And while the swish, modern cabin tech presents well, it feels undercooked once you start tapping and swiping around the touchscreen. So, while the XUV700 may look like an absolute steal on paper, it's not without compromise. If interior space, standard equipment, and affordability are your top priorities, then this left-field challenger is well worth considering, especially in AX7L trim. However, if you're after a popular SUV from an established player, the Outlander, X-Trail and Honda CR-V represent decent bang for buck. And then there's something like the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max, which combines a lengthy list of kit with solid driving dynamics. Of all the options at this price point, it's my favourite. But it's worth noting that the Mahindra and Chery don't hold their value as well as models from legacy manufacturers, which could be a potential red flag for new car buyers on a tight budget. Nevertheless, there's plenty of value to be found in the updated XUV700. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV700? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV700 showroom Content originally sourced from: XUV700 Pros Mahindra XUV700 Cons Families of Australia take note – the Mahindra XUV700 is the cheapest seven-seater in the country. Priced from just $39,990 drive-away, the updated XUV700 mid-size SUV is more affordable than base seven-seat versions of the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander – both staples of Aussie family life. And that's not to say Mahindra's offering skimps out on standard equipment. It was already generously equipped in pre-facelift guise, but it's also gained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats and mirror memory functions with this latest update. So, what's not to love? Well, the looks, for one. The XUV700 deserves better than the 18-inch wheels fitted to each corner as standard, and there's a disconnect between the front and rear styling. Further, the Mahindra brand is better known for tractors than plush SUVs, and it'll take some time to build credibility in the Australian automotive space. WATCH: Paul's review of the Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition For that reason, models like the XUV700 are crucial to Mahindra's success Down Under. Does this family hauler have what it takes to be the catalyst for a local sales spike? We spent a week in a mid-spec AX7L to find out. The Mahindra XUV700 lineup has received a handful of upgrades for 2025, resulting in $3000 price hikes for both the entry-level AX7 and flagship AX7L. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool Feedback on the white upholstery mustn't have been particularly positive, because it's been dropped for this update in favour of a safer black on black colour scheme. The interior feels less 'blingy' as a result, expanding the pool of potential buyers for this seven-seat family SUV. However, gloss black plastic is still in strong supply – a finish that looks premium when new but shows signs of wear and tear quickly. A significant portion of the interior surfaces are finished in less shiny but still hard and scratchy plastic, with softer leatherette limited to the seats, armrests and front section of the dash. The steering wheel is wrapped in real leather, although it doesn't feel especially high-end. Nevertheless, the quality of materials is on par with similarly priced rivals. While the seats present well, they let the XUV700 down from a comfort perspective. Even in their lowest setting, the front pews sit far too high in the cabin, limiting headroom for taller drivers. On top of that, the base cushion is far too firm, and lateral support is lacking. Adjustments can be made via Mercedes-Benz-style controls built into the door cards, although I was unable to get truly comfortable. This specced up AX7L comes with three-stage seat ventilation but no heating, which isn't all that surprising considering this vehicle's country of origin. In addition to ventilated front seats, 2025 examples of the AX7L feature wireless smartphone mirroring, which is now standard across the XUV700 range. It's a welcome convenience upgrade for the model, and you still get two USB-A wired connection outlets. There's also a wireless charging pad. However, the interior technology in the XUV700 still leaves plenty to be desired. A single wraparound panel houses the infotainment and instrument displays, which both measure 10.25 inches in diameter. The former features Mahindra's own Adrenox connected car technology platform, a system that's thoroughly modern but not quite as polished as others in market. For example, the infotainment system takes a while to boot up after starting the car, and we experienced numerous glitches and quirks during our week-long loan including a frozen volume readout, Apple CarPlay dropouts, and slow loading speeds. That said, the visuals are crisp and the menus are easy to navigate. The digital instrument cluster is similarly uncluttered. A customisable centre readout is flanked by a pair of digital gauges – nice and simple, although not particularly inspiring. Then again, props to Mahindra for integrating CarPlay navigation into the cluster display, which allows you to view directions without glancing across to the infotainment screen. Once again, the graphic design of the driver display is reminiscent of modern Mercedes-Benz models… I'm starting to see a trend here. But unlike current Mercs, the Mahindra sports a traditional cabin layout with plenty of physical switchgear including a BMW-style rotary controller. While it's great to have that option, I still preferred to use the touchscreen. Conventional buttons and dials dominate the climate control panel – another tick for useability – but there's no temperature readout, which forces the operator to refer to the infotainment screen when adjusting settings. The XUV700 is blessed with ample cabin storage – a trait that helps it stand out from the family SUV crowd. Headlining the set of solutions is quite possibly the biggest glovebox I've ever seen in a car, while the centre console is likewise deep and ventilated, too. A host of additional cubbies are scattered around the cabin, with dedicated areas for drink bottles, sunglasses and smaller knick-knacks. Moving back, the second row is reasonably well equipped for the demands of a busy family. Taking into account legroom and headroom, there's enough room for two taller adults to sit in comfort, or three smaller types. While the panoramic sunroof eats into overhead space, you get some back courtesy of a split-reclining bench. Second-row amenities include shallow map pockets, a single USB-C outlet for rear occupants to fight over, dual air vents, and a centre armrest with undersized cupholders. Nothing to brag about, but I'd hardly call the space oppressive either. And the XUV700 has a not-so-interesting party trick – a third row of seats. From the outside looking in, it's hard to imagine the rear seats are particularly comfy, but you'd be surprised. While difficult to access, the back-back is actually quite usable, with above average legroom and just enough headroom for shorter persons. Considering the XUV700 is essentially a mid-size SUV, that's ultra impressive. Equally impressive is the inclusion of a 12V power socket, cupholders on either side, and air vents with fan controls. That's a generous back row, if you ask me. The same can't be said of the boot. Mahindra doesn't quote a boot capacity figure, but there's only room for a few grocery bags when the third row is in place. Fold it down and you can fit bulkier items, which slide in easily as there's no annoying load lip. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The entire Mahindra XUV700 range is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine driving the front wheels only. Diesel power and all-wheel drive are available in other markets, along with the option of a manual transmission. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The XUV700 performs adequately in relaxed city driving, but beyond those confines you quickly notice its low dynamic ceiling. Rolling around the suburbs at up to 60km/h, this family-friendly SUV is softly sprung and easy to steer, with a rack that's almost too light. The turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine is relatively refined, too – a healthy 380Nm of torque is available from just 1750rpm, so it's easy to make quick progress, and I rarely noticed an excess of noise or vibration from under the bonnet. Likewise, the six-speed automatic transmission is agreeable in its operation, offering smooth upshifts and snappy downshifts. I will take issue with the brake pedal though, as the stopper in our tester moved laterally in its housing and provided little feedback unless firmly pressed. The auto-hold system is also clunky and unpleasant to use – when you attempt to take off from a standing start the car feels like it's momentarily stuck in quicksand, which makes smooth getaways difficult. That's especially grating in stop-start traffic, so I chose to disable the system completely. It's all about smooth inputs with the XUV700. Visibility from the driver's seat is excellent, especially given the higher-than-normal driving position. Chunky side mirrors support your natural range of vision, which is unimpeded in all directions. That makes the XUV700 a relatively simple beast to park, and the AX7L comes equipped with high-resolution surround-view and reversing cameras that prove helpful in tight confines. Cracks start to appear in the refinement of the XUV700 once you cross city limits and hit the highway. The powertrain will quietly cruise at 1800rpm on a stretch of 80km/h road, but it's in those situations that road and wind noise ramp up to disruptive levels. All versions of this model feature Smart Pilot Assist – Mahindra's take on semi-autonomous driving technology. While the adaptive cruise element of the system works well, the lane centring lacks finesse in its calibration, often bouncing the car between lane markings. Blind spot support comes in the form of cameras fitted to the side mirrors that project a live feed onto the instrument cluster, which sounds more advanced than it is in reality. Picture quality is low, and the feed flashes onto the driver display in peculiar situations, like when you're making a basic turn at a set of traffic lights. Other safety systems in the XUV700 are less random in their operation. The traffic sign recognition feature never punishes you for its own failures, and there's no intrusive driver attention monitoring system. While the XUV700 remains competent as a highway cruiser, it falls down on a country road. As previously alluded too, the steering is so light that it feels a bit disconnected from the front wheels – disconcerting when you're tackling a twisty stretch of tarmac. And there's not much to love from a handling perspective, as this soft and squishy family SUV understeers through corners with plenty of body roll, even at moderate speeds. I was particularly disappointed by XUV700's lack of wet grip at city speeds. Quite simply, the budget-friendly MRF Wanderer tyres aren't up to task, scrabbling for traction under modest throttle inputs when the roads are a bit greasy, although it's easy to replace them. On test here is the middle-of-the-range XUV700 AX7L. 2025 Mahindra XUV700 AX7 equipment highlights: The AX7L adds: The Black Edition adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 has yet to be assessed by ANCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: AX7L adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 is backed by a generous seven-year, 150,000km warranty including seven years of roadside assist. Servicing is generally required every 12 months or 15,000km, although an initial round of maintenance is required at one month or 1500km and the second service is due at 10,000km. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool There's more to the Mahindra XUV700 than a cheap as chips sticker price. In AX7L trim, it's a spacious and well-equipped family seven-seater with a long warranty, all the latest safety tech, and a gutsy turbo engine. As far as showroom appeal goes, there's certainly more here than you'll find in a base Outlander or X-Trail. However, the XUV700 doesn't come close to those segment mainstays as a driving machine. It's soft and lacks feel behind the wheel, which will prove disappointing to those making the switch from proven Japanese rivals. Taller buyers will also be put off by the awkward ergonomics. And while the swish, modern cabin tech presents well, it feels undercooked once you start tapping and swiping around the touchscreen. So, while the XUV700 may look like an absolute steal on paper, it's not without compromise. If interior space, standard equipment, and affordability are your top priorities, then this left-field challenger is well worth considering, especially in AX7L trim. However, if you're after a popular SUV from an established player, the Outlander, X-Trail and Honda CR-V represent decent bang for buck. And then there's something like the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max, which combines a lengthy list of kit with solid driving dynamics. Of all the options at this price point, it's my favourite. But it's worth noting that the Mahindra and Chery don't hold their value as well as models from legacy manufacturers, which could be a potential red flag for new car buyers on a tight budget. Nevertheless, there's plenty of value to be found in the updated XUV700. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV700? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV700 showroom Content originally sourced from: XUV700 Pros Mahindra XUV700 Cons Families of Australia take note – the Mahindra XUV700 is the cheapest seven-seater in the country. Priced from just $39,990 drive-away, the updated XUV700 mid-size SUV is more affordable than base seven-seat versions of the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander – both staples of Aussie family life. And that's not to say Mahindra's offering skimps out on standard equipment. It was already generously equipped in pre-facelift guise, but it's also gained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats and mirror memory functions with this latest update. So, what's not to love? Well, the looks, for one. The XUV700 deserves better than the 18-inch wheels fitted to each corner as standard, and there's a disconnect between the front and rear styling. Further, the Mahindra brand is better known for tractors than plush SUVs, and it'll take some time to build credibility in the Australian automotive space. WATCH: Paul's review of the Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition For that reason, models like the XUV700 are crucial to Mahindra's success Down Under. Does this family hauler have what it takes to be the catalyst for a local sales spike? We spent a week in a mid-spec AX7L to find out. The Mahindra XUV700 lineup has received a handful of upgrades for 2025, resulting in $3000 price hikes for both the entry-level AX7 and flagship AX7L. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool Feedback on the white upholstery mustn't have been particularly positive, because it's been dropped for this update in favour of a safer black on black colour scheme. The interior feels less 'blingy' as a result, expanding the pool of potential buyers for this seven-seat family SUV. However, gloss black plastic is still in strong supply – a finish that looks premium when new but shows signs of wear and tear quickly. A significant portion of the interior surfaces are finished in less shiny but still hard and scratchy plastic, with softer leatherette limited to the seats, armrests and front section of the dash. The steering wheel is wrapped in real leather, although it doesn't feel especially high-end. Nevertheless, the quality of materials is on par with similarly priced rivals. While the seats present well, they let the XUV700 down from a comfort perspective. Even in their lowest setting, the front pews sit far too high in the cabin, limiting headroom for taller drivers. On top of that, the base cushion is far too firm, and lateral support is lacking. Adjustments can be made via Mercedes-Benz-style controls built into the door cards, although I was unable to get truly comfortable. This specced up AX7L comes with three-stage seat ventilation but no heating, which isn't all that surprising considering this vehicle's country of origin. In addition to ventilated front seats, 2025 examples of the AX7L feature wireless smartphone mirroring, which is now standard across the XUV700 range. It's a welcome convenience upgrade for the model, and you still get two USB-A wired connection outlets. There's also a wireless charging pad. However, the interior technology in the XUV700 still leaves plenty to be desired. A single wraparound panel houses the infotainment and instrument displays, which both measure 10.25 inches in diameter. The former features Mahindra's own Adrenox connected car technology platform, a system that's thoroughly modern but not quite as polished as others in market. For example, the infotainment system takes a while to boot up after starting the car, and we experienced numerous glitches and quirks during our week-long loan including a frozen volume readout, Apple CarPlay dropouts, and slow loading speeds. That said, the visuals are crisp and the menus are easy to navigate. The digital instrument cluster is similarly uncluttered. A customisable centre readout is flanked by a pair of digital gauges – nice and simple, although not particularly inspiring. Then again, props to Mahindra for integrating CarPlay navigation into the cluster display, which allows you to view directions without glancing across to the infotainment screen. Once again, the graphic design of the driver display is reminiscent of modern Mercedes-Benz models… I'm starting to see a trend here. But unlike current Mercs, the Mahindra sports a traditional cabin layout with plenty of physical switchgear including a BMW-style rotary controller. While it's great to have that option, I still preferred to use the touchscreen. Conventional buttons and dials dominate the climate control panel – another tick for useability – but there's no temperature readout, which forces the operator to refer to the infotainment screen when adjusting settings. The XUV700 is blessed with ample cabin storage – a trait that helps it stand out from the family SUV crowd. Headlining the set of solutions is quite possibly the biggest glovebox I've ever seen in a car, while the centre console is likewise deep and ventilated, too. A host of additional cubbies are scattered around the cabin, with dedicated areas for drink bottles, sunglasses and smaller knick-knacks. Moving back, the second row is reasonably well equipped for the demands of a busy family. Taking into account legroom and headroom, there's enough room for two taller adults to sit in comfort, or three smaller types. While the panoramic sunroof eats into overhead space, you get some back courtesy of a split-reclining bench. Second-row amenities include shallow map pockets, a single USB-C outlet for rear occupants to fight over, dual air vents, and a centre armrest with undersized cupholders. Nothing to brag about, but I'd hardly call the space oppressive either. And the XUV700 has a not-so-interesting party trick – a third row of seats. From the outside looking in, it's hard to imagine the rear seats are particularly comfy, but you'd be surprised. While difficult to access, the back-back is actually quite usable, with above average legroom and just enough headroom for shorter persons. Considering the XUV700 is essentially a mid-size SUV, that's ultra impressive. Equally impressive is the inclusion of a 12V power socket, cupholders on either side, and air vents with fan controls. That's a generous back row, if you ask me. The same can't be said of the boot. Mahindra doesn't quote a boot capacity figure, but there's only room for a few grocery bags when the third row is in place. Fold it down and you can fit bulkier items, which slide in easily as there's no annoying load lip. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The entire Mahindra XUV700 range is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine driving the front wheels only. Diesel power and all-wheel drive are available in other markets, along with the option of a manual transmission. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The XUV700 performs adequately in relaxed city driving, but beyond those confines you quickly notice its low dynamic ceiling. Rolling around the suburbs at up to 60km/h, this family-friendly SUV is softly sprung and easy to steer, with a rack that's almost too light. The turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine is relatively refined, too – a healthy 380Nm of torque is available from just 1750rpm, so it's easy to make quick progress, and I rarely noticed an excess of noise or vibration from under the bonnet. Likewise, the six-speed automatic transmission is agreeable in its operation, offering smooth upshifts and snappy downshifts. I will take issue with the brake pedal though, as the stopper in our tester moved laterally in its housing and provided little feedback unless firmly pressed. The auto-hold system is also clunky and unpleasant to use – when you attempt to take off from a standing start the car feels like it's momentarily stuck in quicksand, which makes smooth getaways difficult. That's especially grating in stop-start traffic, so I chose to disable the system completely. It's all about smooth inputs with the XUV700. Visibility from the driver's seat is excellent, especially given the higher-than-normal driving position. Chunky side mirrors support your natural range of vision, which is unimpeded in all directions. That makes the XUV700 a relatively simple beast to park, and the AX7L comes equipped with high-resolution surround-view and reversing cameras that prove helpful in tight confines. Cracks start to appear in the refinement of the XUV700 once you cross city limits and hit the highway. The powertrain will quietly cruise at 1800rpm on a stretch of 80km/h road, but it's in those situations that road and wind noise ramp up to disruptive levels. All versions of this model feature Smart Pilot Assist – Mahindra's take on semi-autonomous driving technology. While the adaptive cruise element of the system works well, the lane centring lacks finesse in its calibration, often bouncing the car between lane markings. Blind spot support comes in the form of cameras fitted to the side mirrors that project a live feed onto the instrument cluster, which sounds more advanced than it is in reality. Picture quality is low, and the feed flashes onto the driver display in peculiar situations, like when you're making a basic turn at a set of traffic lights. Other safety systems in the XUV700 are less random in their operation. The traffic sign recognition feature never punishes you for its own failures, and there's no intrusive driver attention monitoring system. While the XUV700 remains competent as a highway cruiser, it falls down on a country road. As previously alluded too, the steering is so light that it feels a bit disconnected from the front wheels – disconcerting when you're tackling a twisty stretch of tarmac. And there's not much to love from a handling perspective, as this soft and squishy family SUV understeers through corners with plenty of body roll, even at moderate speeds. I was particularly disappointed by XUV700's lack of wet grip at city speeds. Quite simply, the budget-friendly MRF Wanderer tyres aren't up to task, scrabbling for traction under modest throttle inputs when the roads are a bit greasy, although it's easy to replace them. On test here is the middle-of-the-range XUV700 AX7L. 2025 Mahindra XUV700 AX7 equipment highlights: The AX7L adds: The Black Edition adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 has yet to be assessed by ANCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: AX7L adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 is backed by a generous seven-year, 150,000km warranty including seven years of roadside assist. Servicing is generally required every 12 months or 15,000km, although an initial round of maintenance is required at one month or 1500km and the second service is due at 10,000km. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool There's more to the Mahindra XUV700 than a cheap as chips sticker price. In AX7L trim, it's a spacious and well-equipped family seven-seater with a long warranty, all the latest safety tech, and a gutsy turbo engine. As far as showroom appeal goes, there's certainly more here than you'll find in a base Outlander or X-Trail. However, the XUV700 doesn't come close to those segment mainstays as a driving machine. It's soft and lacks feel behind the wheel, which will prove disappointing to those making the switch from proven Japanese rivals. Taller buyers will also be put off by the awkward ergonomics. And while the swish, modern cabin tech presents well, it feels undercooked once you start tapping and swiping around the touchscreen. So, while the XUV700 may look like an absolute steal on paper, it's not without compromise. If interior space, standard equipment, and affordability are your top priorities, then this left-field challenger is well worth considering, especially in AX7L trim. However, if you're after a popular SUV from an established player, the Outlander, X-Trail and Honda CR-V represent decent bang for buck. And then there's something like the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max, which combines a lengthy list of kit with solid driving dynamics. Of all the options at this price point, it's my favourite. But it's worth noting that the Mahindra and Chery don't hold their value as well as models from legacy manufacturers, which could be a potential red flag for new car buyers on a tight budget. Nevertheless, there's plenty of value to be found in the updated XUV700. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV700? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV700 showroom Content originally sourced from: XUV700 Pros Mahindra XUV700 Cons Families of Australia take note – the Mahindra XUV700 is the cheapest seven-seater in the country. Priced from just $39,990 drive-away, the updated XUV700 mid-size SUV is more affordable than base seven-seat versions of the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander – both staples of Aussie family life. And that's not to say Mahindra's offering skimps out on standard equipment. It was already generously equipped in pre-facelift guise, but it's also gained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats and mirror memory functions with this latest update. So, what's not to love? Well, the looks, for one. The XUV700 deserves better than the 18-inch wheels fitted to each corner as standard, and there's a disconnect between the front and rear styling. Further, the Mahindra brand is better known for tractors than plush SUVs, and it'll take some time to build credibility in the Australian automotive space. WATCH: Paul's review of the Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition For that reason, models like the XUV700 are crucial to Mahindra's success Down Under. Does this family hauler have what it takes to be the catalyst for a local sales spike? We spent a week in a mid-spec AX7L to find out. The Mahindra XUV700 lineup has received a handful of upgrades for 2025, resulting in $3000 price hikes for both the entry-level AX7 and flagship AX7L. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool Feedback on the white upholstery mustn't have been particularly positive, because it's been dropped for this update in favour of a safer black on black colour scheme. The interior feels less 'blingy' as a result, expanding the pool of potential buyers for this seven-seat family SUV. However, gloss black plastic is still in strong supply – a finish that looks premium when new but shows signs of wear and tear quickly. A significant portion of the interior surfaces are finished in less shiny but still hard and scratchy plastic, with softer leatherette limited to the seats, armrests and front section of the dash. The steering wheel is wrapped in real leather, although it doesn't feel especially high-end. Nevertheless, the quality of materials is on par with similarly priced rivals. While the seats present well, they let the XUV700 down from a comfort perspective. Even in their lowest setting, the front pews sit far too high in the cabin, limiting headroom for taller drivers. On top of that, the base cushion is far too firm, and lateral support is lacking. Adjustments can be made via Mercedes-Benz-style controls built into the door cards, although I was unable to get truly comfortable. This specced up AX7L comes with three-stage seat ventilation but no heating, which isn't all that surprising considering this vehicle's country of origin. In addition to ventilated front seats, 2025 examples of the AX7L feature wireless smartphone mirroring, which is now standard across the XUV700 range. It's a welcome convenience upgrade for the model, and you still get two USB-A wired connection outlets. There's also a wireless charging pad. However, the interior technology in the XUV700 still leaves plenty to be desired. A single wraparound panel houses the infotainment and instrument displays, which both measure 10.25 inches in diameter. The former features Mahindra's own Adrenox connected car technology platform, a system that's thoroughly modern but not quite as polished as others in market. For example, the infotainment system takes a while to boot up after starting the car, and we experienced numerous glitches and quirks during our week-long loan including a frozen volume readout, Apple CarPlay dropouts, and slow loading speeds. That said, the visuals are crisp and the menus are easy to navigate. The digital instrument cluster is similarly uncluttered. A customisable centre readout is flanked by a pair of digital gauges – nice and simple, although not particularly inspiring. Then again, props to Mahindra for integrating CarPlay navigation into the cluster display, which allows you to view directions without glancing across to the infotainment screen. Once again, the graphic design of the driver display is reminiscent of modern Mercedes-Benz models… I'm starting to see a trend here. But unlike current Mercs, the Mahindra sports a traditional cabin layout with plenty of physical switchgear including a BMW-style rotary controller. While it's great to have that option, I still preferred to use the touchscreen. Conventional buttons and dials dominate the climate control panel – another tick for useability – but there's no temperature readout, which forces the operator to refer to the infotainment screen when adjusting settings. The XUV700 is blessed with ample cabin storage – a trait that helps it stand out from the family SUV crowd. Headlining the set of solutions is quite possibly the biggest glovebox I've ever seen in a car, while the centre console is likewise deep and ventilated, too. A host of additional cubbies are scattered around the cabin, with dedicated areas for drink bottles, sunglasses and smaller knick-knacks. Moving back, the second row is reasonably well equipped for the demands of a busy family. Taking into account legroom and headroom, there's enough room for two taller adults to sit in comfort, or three smaller types. While the panoramic sunroof eats into overhead space, you get some back courtesy of a split-reclining bench. Second-row amenities include shallow map pockets, a single USB-C outlet for rear occupants to fight over, dual air vents, and a centre armrest with undersized cupholders. Nothing to brag about, but I'd hardly call the space oppressive either. And the XUV700 has a not-so-interesting party trick – a third row of seats. From the outside looking in, it's hard to imagine the rear seats are particularly comfy, but you'd be surprised. While difficult to access, the back-back is actually quite usable, with above average legroom and just enough headroom for shorter persons. Considering the XUV700 is essentially a mid-size SUV, that's ultra impressive. Equally impressive is the inclusion of a 12V power socket, cupholders on either side, and air vents with fan controls. That's a generous back row, if you ask me. The same can't be said of the boot. Mahindra doesn't quote a boot capacity figure, but there's only room for a few grocery bags when the third row is in place. Fold it down and you can fit bulkier items, which slide in easily as there's no annoying load lip. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The entire Mahindra XUV700 range is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine driving the front wheels only. Diesel power and all-wheel drive are available in other markets, along with the option of a manual transmission. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The XUV700 performs adequately in relaxed city driving, but beyond those confines you quickly notice its low dynamic ceiling. Rolling around the suburbs at up to 60km/h, this family-friendly SUV is softly sprung and easy to steer, with a rack that's almost too light. The turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine is relatively refined, too – a healthy 380Nm of torque is available from just 1750rpm, so it's easy to make quick progress, and I rarely noticed an excess of noise or vibration from under the bonnet. Likewise, the six-speed automatic transmission is agreeable in its operation, offering smooth upshifts and snappy downshifts. I will take issue with the brake pedal though, as the stopper in our tester moved laterally in its housing and provided little feedback unless firmly pressed. The auto-hold system is also clunky and unpleasant to use – when you attempt to take off from a standing start the car feels like it's momentarily stuck in quicksand, which makes smooth getaways difficult. That's especially grating in stop-start traffic, so I chose to disable the system completely. It's all about smooth inputs with the XUV700. Visibility from the driver's seat is excellent, especially given the higher-than-normal driving position. Chunky side mirrors support your natural range of vision, which is unimpeded in all directions. That makes the XUV700 a relatively simple beast to park, and the AX7L comes equipped with high-resolution surround-view and reversing cameras that prove helpful in tight confines. Cracks start to appear in the refinement of the XUV700 once you cross city limits and hit the highway. The powertrain will quietly cruise at 1800rpm on a stretch of 80km/h road, but it's in those situations that road and wind noise ramp up to disruptive levels. All versions of this model feature Smart Pilot Assist – Mahindra's take on semi-autonomous driving technology. While the adaptive cruise element of the system works well, the lane centring lacks finesse in its calibration, often bouncing the car between lane markings. Blind spot support comes in the form of cameras fitted to the side mirrors that project a live feed onto the instrument cluster, which sounds more advanced than it is in reality. Picture quality is low, and the feed flashes onto the driver display in peculiar situations, like when you're making a basic turn at a set of traffic lights. Other safety systems in the XUV700 are less random in their operation. The traffic sign recognition feature never punishes you for its own failures, and there's no intrusive driver attention monitoring system. While the XUV700 remains competent as a highway cruiser, it falls down on a country road. As previously alluded too, the steering is so light that it feels a bit disconnected from the front wheels – disconcerting when you're tackling a twisty stretch of tarmac. And there's not much to love from a handling perspective, as this soft and squishy family SUV understeers through corners with plenty of body roll, even at moderate speeds. I was particularly disappointed by XUV700's lack of wet grip at city speeds. Quite simply, the budget-friendly MRF Wanderer tyres aren't up to task, scrabbling for traction under modest throttle inputs when the roads are a bit greasy, although it's easy to replace them. On test here is the middle-of-the-range XUV700 AX7L. 2025 Mahindra XUV700 AX7 equipment highlights: The AX7L adds: The Black Edition adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 has yet to be assessed by ANCAP. Standard safety equipment includes: AX7L adds: To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool The Mahindra XUV700 is backed by a generous seven-year, 150,000km warranty including seven years of roadside assist. Servicing is generally required every 12 months or 15,000km, although an initial round of maintenance is required at one month or 1500km and the second service is due at 10,000km. To see how the Mahindra XUV700 stacks up against its rivals, check out our comparison tool There's more to the Mahindra XUV700 than a cheap as chips sticker price. In AX7L trim, it's a spacious and well-equipped family seven-seater with a long warranty, all the latest safety tech, and a gutsy turbo engine. As far as showroom appeal goes, there's certainly more here than you'll find in a base Outlander or X-Trail. However, the XUV700 doesn't come close to those segment mainstays as a driving machine. It's soft and lacks feel behind the wheel, which will prove disappointing to those making the switch from proven Japanese rivals. Taller buyers will also be put off by the awkward ergonomics. And while the swish, modern cabin tech presents well, it feels undercooked once you start tapping and swiping around the touchscreen. So, while the XUV700 may look like an absolute steal on paper, it's not without compromise. If interior space, standard equipment, and affordability are your top priorities, then this left-field challenger is well worth considering, especially in AX7L trim. However, if you're after a popular SUV from an established player, the Outlander, X-Trail and Honda CR-V represent decent bang for buck. And then there's something like the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max, which combines a lengthy list of kit with solid driving dynamics. Of all the options at this price point, it's my favourite. But it's worth noting that the Mahindra and Chery don't hold their value as well as models from legacy manufacturers, which could be a potential red flag for new car buyers on a tight budget. Nevertheless, there's plenty of value to be found in the updated XUV700. Interested in buying a Mahindra XUV700? Let CarExpert find you the best deal hereMORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV700 showroom Content originally sourced from:
NZ Autocar
04-06-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
First Drive: Mahindra XUV 3XO
Premium Distributors Ltd, importers and distributors of Mahindra vehicles, is launching a new small SUV, dubbed XUV 3XO. It's the smallest of its XUV range and it dots down in time for the National Fieldays, where it will go on show with pricing details released then. Mahindra says the XUV 3XO promises to set new value standards in its segment. The base model AX5 kicks off at under $30k while the similar but better-specified AX7L adds $3k to the bottom line. And it's not like the base model is exactly wanting for features. It comes with six airbags, adaptive cruise control, a sunroof, wireless Android Auto and Apple Car play, and a Qi charger. Atop these features the AX7L adds a Skyroof. This is a panoramic roof with tilt and slide functionality. There are also 17-inch diamond-cut alloys, and a Harman Kardon Premium Audio with subwoofer. Expect also soft touch leatherette dash, doors and seat upholstery, LED fog lamps, parking sonar up front, a cooled glove compartment, 65w USB fast charging and dual-tone roof colour. Powering both models is a Euro 6 82kW/200Nm three-cylinder turbopetrol engine. Its combined fuel consumption figure using ADR81/01 testing regimen is 6.5L/100km (rightcar 7.2). Rather than a CVT that's typical in this sector, the 3XO features an automatic six-speed transmission by Aisin. The vehicle has been extensively tested in New Zealand in both urban and rural situations, including gravel roads and in all-weather conditions. Both 3XOs come with a seven-year/150,000km warranty. There's no ANCAP rating, though there should be soon given XUV 3XO is also set to debut on the Australian market. So that's the essential rundown for the XUV 3XO. What's it like exactly? Mahindra NZ gave motoring journalists a one-on-one drive recently, with two vehicles to check out. One was a new upper level model, the other a test mule towing an unbraked trailer weighing 750kg. The weather? Abysmal about captured it perfectly. Really, a day for ducks only. To behold this seems familiar. That's because it is based on a SsangYong Tivoli, the firm at one point owned by Mahindra. So rather than reinvent the wheel, Mahindra used this as the basis for its own small crossover. Only they didn't go with the Tivoli drive train, instead using their own engine. The smaller displacement turbo-fired engine was chosen for its mix of torque and economy. The little triple develops its 200Nm from 1500 to 3500rpm. There's enough output to keep pace with the 3XO not towing a trailer, though we had to row the gearbox along manually for best effect. You can do that at the lever. Left to its own devices this likes to lug away, keeping revs low and fuel use the same. This features no electrification yet while towing it was using fuel at a rate of just under 10L/100km. The rest of the time, on the open road and not hanging around we saw about 6.5L/100km, and at times on adaptive cruise as low as 5.5L/100km. At the speed limit in top, around 1750rpm is showing. So what else is new about the 3XO? The name clearly references the crossover division within which it lies, looking like an SUV but with front-wheel drive alone. It features 201mm of ground clearance for easy entry and exit. It may have a Tivoli like shape, nothing really different there but up front a new grille and headlights give it a more modern face. Tivoli sold for roughly $40k so this is significantly less expensive. And yet it is better specified. True, the old Tivoli had adaptive cruise but it was crude. This is much better, with appropriate following distances, lane centring that isn't annoying and it's easy enough to activate with its separate dials on the right side of the wheel. Where Tivoli had cloth seat coverings this has leather-like upholstery. And where Tivoli was awash in hard plastics, this has pleasing soft coverings in the places you'd expect and lots of gloss black finishings, on the centre console, steering wheel and the like. nstead of having the 10.25-inch central touchscreen as master and commander, it handles stuff like phone hook-up and radio while down below are buttons for heating and ventilation. Driver assist functions you manipulate within the instrument screen. It's a bit of a fuss turning off lane keeping but is worth the effort. Seats are manually operated while mirrors and windows are powered. There's no lumbar adjustment or steering column adjust in the horizontal plane. But this has great visibility, in all directions. The 3XO has three drive modes, Zip, Zap and Zoom. Think of Zip as Sip mode. Zap is Normal and Zoom is Sport. There's quite a noticeable difference between Zip and Zap to the point that you'd select Zip only in urban settings or when low on fuel. Zap is the default drive mode, while Zoom we used for hauling because output is slightly more forthcoming. This engine gives of its best across the midband from about 2000-3500rpm. With each upshift you're back into the torque band again. As to actual performance, the weather was so shocking we didn't bother attaching our GPS based gear but it seems to hold sixth up all manner of hills. Getting it to downshift you need to be a bit more active with the gas pedal than normal. Being a wet day, you get plenty of experience determining grip levels and the chosen rubber really didn't put a foot wrong. Despite the deluge, we didn't once detect any semblance of a loss of traction, no slipping or sliding, just a confident on-road stance. Brakes are good too, discs all round, and weren't fazed by the added weight of the trailer. It runs a Mac strut/torsion beam set up and the ride is quiet (no in-cabin SPLs above 70db), tending firm in the torsion beam rear. Unsurprisingly it is calmer with a trailer attached and some luggage on board. Mention of, the load bay swallows up to 364L of gear, not bad for something not even 4m long (3990mm). With split folding 60/40 that expands out to around 800L, in two tiers. While abbreviated, this rides on a relatively long 2600mm wheelbase, so room in the rear for a city SUV is quite generous. Helping is a relatively flat floor so yes, you could park three people in the back okay. A few things but most like Yaris Cross and CX-3 are more expensive. Those that aren't are generally in runout. The AX7L comes up against Kia's Seltos LX model with similar output but CVT. ZS Excite is similar money but doesn't have the torque of the 3XO. Base ASX isn't as economical and has a CVT. The main rivals on paper then are Stonic, Jolion, Omoda C5 and C3 Shine. Check out the XUV 3XO at Fieldays next week. For more, see the July issue of NZ Autocar.
NDTV
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- NDTV
Mahindra Thar Roxx Waiting Period Reduced- Check Updated Timeline
Introduced on August 15, 2024, Mahindra's Thar Roxx, a five-door SUV, has noticed a decline in its waiting period. Customers who previously faced a waiting period of up to 18 months now only have to wait a maximum of six months, as of May 2025. It is to be noted that the waiting period differs for different variants depending on trim, and powertrain options. The Thar Roxx comes in six trim levels: MX1, MX3, MX5, AX3 L, AX5 L, and AX7 L. It offers both petrol and diesel engines, along with options for manual or automatic transmissions. Customers can choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) versions. The prices of these variants range from Rs 12.99 lakh to Rs 23.39 lakh (ex-showroom). Also Read: Tata Altroz Facelift Mileage Revealed; Check Details Mahindra Thar Roxx Waiting Period List: For petrol 2WD models, the manual MX1 has a wait of up to 6 months, while the MX5 is at 4 months. The automatic MX3 and MX5 variants have a waiting period of up to 4 months. The petrol AX7 L automatic has the longest wait time at up to 6 months. In the diesel 2WD category, the MX1, MX3, MX5, AX5 L, and AX7 L have waiting times of 4 to 6 months, with the AX7 L also taking up to 6 months. For diesel 4WD models, the available variants are the MX5 (manual), AX5 L (automatic), and AX7 L (both manual and automatic), all with a waiting period of up to 6 months. Overall, the AX7 L and MX1 have the longest delivery times for both fuel types and drivetrain options. Mahindra's increased production capacity has helped reduce these waiting times, making the Thar Roxx more accessible to customers. However, despite the general decrease in waiting times, some models, such as the entry-level MX1 and high-end AX7 L, still experience waits of up to six months. In contrast, models like the MX3, AX3 L, and AX5 L typically have shorter waiting periods of around four months.
Perth Now
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Refreshed Mahindra XUV700 is a genuine standout for budget-conscious families
SPONSORED The Aussie obsession with mid-size SUVs continues unabated and shows no signs of slowing, at the expense of sedans, station wagons, and even the humble hatchback. Medium SUVs remained the nation's most popular new vehicle type bar none in 2024, when once again more than a quarter of a million examples were sold – up nearly 4.0 per cent in a year when almost all other sales segments declined. Right now, there are more than 25 separate models competing from over 20 individual brands – and that's just those priced under $60,000. The competition is just as fierce in the mid-size luxury ($60K-plus) SUV category. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert But fully loaded, seven-seat mid-size SUVs priced from under $40,000 drive-away are few and far between, and one that may not be on your radar is the 2025 Mahindra XUV700, which comes complete with a long list of standard features, robust engineering and design, and a comprehensive seven-year warranty. Available in three trim levels, the MY25 Mahindra XUV700 range kicks off with the AX7 priced from $39,990 drive-away, while buyers looking for even more creature comforts and a few more safety features can step up to the mid-spec AX7L for $42,990 drive-away. Topping the lineup is the XUV700 Black Edition, which adds a black-themed aesthetics package and unique features for $43,990 drive-away. And for customers who purchase and take delivery of any new MY25 XUV700 vehicle by the end of this financial year (June 30), there is a $3000 EOFY offer applicable to the AX7L variant, making it effectively $39,990 drive-away).Headlining the recent updates to the Indian carmaker's mid-size SUV, which was only launched in Australia in mid-2023, is far more family-friendly black faux-leather interior trim, which is now standard across the range and replaces the conspicuous white upholstery fitted previously. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert What's more, the AX7L shares a few key features with the more expensive Black Edition first released in October 2024, including ventilated front seats, mirror memory function, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. While the Black Edition goes one step further cosmetically, with a more menacing blackops look, all XUV700s offer a rugged, if not handsome, exterior design highlighted by distinctive LED lighting signatures at both ends, and flush-fitting smart door handles from mid-range level. I particularly like the rear-end treatment – it is cutting-edge, contemporary, utilitarian, and robust all at the same time. And while the value-for-money pick is undoubtedly the entry-level AX7 priced under $40k, it's far from a stripped-out, cut-price offering. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Instead, the base XUV700 serves up a full suite of luxury features, including highlights such as auto LED headlights with auto high-beam and cornering lights, a panoramic sunroof, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shifter. There's also dual-zone climate control, rear air vents and a dedicated blower for third-row occupants (who also score cupholders), dual high-resolution 10.25-inch digital screens (infotainment and instrument cluster), tyre pressure monitoring, and rain-sensing wipers. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert Step up a notch and the AX7L adds a quality 12-speaker Sony 3D audio system, ventilated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger. The Black Edition effectively adds a comprehensive black exterior pack, including the grille and wheels, while dark chrome highlights feature inside. The XUV700 cabin has a handsome design with nicely bolstered front seats perched relatively high for a commanding view all around, but with plenty of adjustability, too. One CarExpert reviewer called the interior 'Benz-like' and cited the powered-seat controls mounted on the door cards. They do look familiar. It's a smart look, with tasteful brightwork and ample piano black surfacing adding a touch of class, but remember to put a microfibre cloth in the glovebox to erase the finger marks. Mahindra also strikes a good balance between physical dials and on-screen menus, unlike many of the latest auto brands arriving in Australia, which place far too much reliance on the latter, making it challenging to adjust key functions while on the move. The XUV700 offers knobs for both audio volume and climate controls, prioritising practicality above all else. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert There are also plenty of storage spaces for keys, wallets, phones and cups, while charging ports are plentiful across all three seat rows. Stretching to just under 4.7m overall, the XUV700 is much longer than the most popular medium SUVs and almost as long as many large SUVs. It provides ample space for passengers in all three rows and plenty of cargo capacity, especially with the third row folded. In an age when space-saver spare wheels are a treat and tyre-inflation kits are the norm, there's also the peace of mind that comes with the full-size spare that comes standard in the XUV700. On the safety front, there are up to seven airbags (six in the entry-level AX7) and a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, post-collision braking and a reversing camera. The AX7L gains additional safety features including blind-spot monitoring, a surround-view camera, driver's knee airbag, and adaptive cruise control with stop/go. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 149kW of power and 380Nm of torque. This all-aluminium unit dubbed mStallion was developed and built in-house by Mahindra and has been noted for its refinement and smooth power delivery. Power is delivered to the front wheels exclusively via an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission. CarExpert reviewers praised the XUV700's ability to accelerate confidently with relatively few revs on board, citing that it felt more like a turbo-diesel than a small-displacement turbo-petrol engine. 'This makes for a comfortable, effortless and stress-free driving experience,' said one. High-speed touring is also a breeze in Mahindra. At around 95km/h, the transmission kicks into top gear while maintaining revs just below 2000rpm, and that's great for overall cabin ambience. Fuel-efficiency is another welcome benefit of this 2.0-litre turbo engine. While Mahindra claims an average fuel economy of 8.3L/100km, we saw a figure as low as 7.7L/100km over a test distance of 1840km. That's good news for families travelling longer distances interstate or for weekend getaways, as the XUV700 only requires 91-octane standard unleaded with a 60-litre fuel tank capacity. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert Ride compliance is another strong attribute of this mid-size SUV, particularly over pockmarked suburban roads. There's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, and Mahindra's proprietary Frequency Selective Dampers. The result is high damping force over speed bumps to provide solid composure, while still allowing for good ride comfort on bumpier roads thanks to low damping force. Not only will budget-conscious buyers find the XUV700's price points particularly appealing, given the vehicle's seven-seat capacity, fully loaded cabin, and all-around competency, but Mahindra's standard seven-year/150,000km warranty, seven years of roadside assistance and low ownership costs also make it a bang-for-buck winner. The 2025 Mahindra XUV700 should stand out in the mid-size SUV category for budget-conscious families requiring seven-seat capacity, because it also offers all the bells and whistles of more expensive makes and models. Mind you, it's not just the unbeatable drive-away pricing that demands consideration; it's also the combination of a refined powertrain, generous standard equipment, and generous aftersales provisions. Head to your nearest Mahindra dealership to take a test drive and be as surprised as we were at CarExpert, or jump online at
7NEWS
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
Refreshed Mahindra XUV700 is a genuine standout for budget-conscious families
SPONSORED The Aussie obsession with mid-size SUVs continues unabated and shows no signs of slowing, at the expense of sedans, station wagons, and even the humble hatchback. Medium SUVs remained the nation's most popular new vehicle type bar none in 2024, when once again more than a quarter of a million examples were sold – up nearly 4.0 per cent in a year when almost all other sales segments declined. Right now, there are more than 25 separate models competing from over 20 individual brands – and that's just those priced under $60,000. The competition is just as fierce in the mid-size luxury ($60K-plus) SUV category. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. But fully loaded, seven-seat mid-size SUVs priced from under $40,000 drive-away are few and far between, and one that may not be on your radar is the 2025 Mahindra XUV700, which comes complete with a long list of standard features, robust engineering and design, and a comprehensive seven-year warranty. Available in three trim levels, the MY25 Mahindra XUV700 range kicks off with the AX7 priced from $39,990 drive-away, while buyers looking for even more creature comforts and a few more safety features can step up to the mid-spec AX7L for $42,990 drive-away. Topping the lineup is the XUV700 Black Edition, which adds a black-themed aesthetics package and unique features for $43,990 drive-away. And for customers who purchase and take delivery of any new MY25 XUV700 vehicle by the end of this financial year (June 30), there is a $3000 EOFY offer applicable to the AX7L variant, making it effectively $39,990 drive-away).Headlining the recent updates to the Indian carmaker's mid-size SUV, which was only launched in Australia in mid-2023, is far more family-friendly black faux-leather interior trim, which is now standard across the range and replaces the conspicuous white upholstery fitted previously. What's more, the AX7L shares a few key features with the more expensive Black Edition first released in October 2024, including ventilated front seats, mirror memory function, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. While the Black Edition goes one step further cosmetically, with a more menacing blackops look, all XUV700s offer a rugged, if not handsome, exterior design highlighted by distinctive LED lighting signatures at both ends, and flush-fitting smart door handles from mid-range level. I particularly like the rear-end treatment – it is cutting-edge, contemporary, utilitarian, and robust all at the same time. And while the value-for-money pick is undoubtedly the entry-level AX7 priced under $40k, it's far from a stripped-out, cut-price offering. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Instead, the base XUV700 serves up a full suite of luxury features, including highlights such as auto LED headlights with auto high-beam and cornering lights, a panoramic sunroof, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shifter. There's also dual-zone climate control, rear air vents and a dedicated blower for third-row occupants (who also score cupholders), dual high-resolution 10.25-inch digital screens (infotainment and instrument cluster), tyre pressure monitoring, and rain-sensing wipers. Step up a notch and the AX7L adds a quality 12-speaker Sony 3D audio system, ventilated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger. The Black Edition effectively adds a comprehensive black exterior pack, including the grille and wheels, while dark chrome highlights feature inside. The XUV700 cabin has a handsome design with nicely bolstered front seats perched relatively high for a commanding view all around, but with plenty of adjustability, too. One CarExpert reviewer called the interior 'Benz-like' and cited the powered-seat controls mounted on the door cards. They do look familiar. It's a smart look, with tasteful brightwork and ample piano black surfacing adding a touch of class, but remember to put a microfibre cloth in the glovebox to erase the finger marks. Mahindra also strikes a good balance between physical dials and on-screen menus, unlike many of the latest auto brands arriving in Australia, which place far too much reliance on the latter, making it challenging to adjust key functions while on the move. The XUV700 offers knobs for both audio volume and climate controls, prioritising practicality above all else. There are also plenty of storage spaces for keys, wallets, phones and cups, while charging ports are plentiful across all three seat rows. Stretching to just under 4.7m overall, the XUV700 is much longer than the most popular medium SUVs and almost as long as many large SUVs. It provides ample space for passengers in all three rows and plenty of cargo capacity, especially with the third row folded. In an age when space-saver spare wheels are a treat and tyre-inflation kits are the norm, there's also the peace of mind that comes with the full-size spare that comes standard in the XUV700. On the safety front, there are up to seven airbags (six in the entry-level AX7) and a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, post-collision braking and a reversing camera. The AX7L gains additional safety features including blind-spot monitoring, a surround-view camera, driver's knee airbag, and adaptive cruise control with stop/go. Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 149kW of power and 380Nm of torque. This all-aluminium unit dubbed mStallion was developed and built in-house by Mahindra and has been noted for its refinement and smooth power delivery. Power is delivered to the front wheels exclusively via an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission. CarExpert reviewers praised the XUV700's ability to accelerate confidently with relatively few revs on board, citing that it felt more like a turbo-diesel than a small-displacement turbo-petrol engine. 'This makes for a comfortable, effortless and stress-free driving experience,' said one. High-speed touring is also a breeze in Mahindra. At around 95km/h, the transmission kicks into top gear while maintaining revs just below 2000rpm, and that's great for overall cabin ambience. Fuel-efficiency is another welcome benefit of this 2.0-litre turbo engine. While Mahindra claims an average fuel economy of 8.3L/100km, we saw a figure as low as 7.7L/100km over a test distance of 1840km. That's good news for families travelling longer distances interstate or for weekend getaways, as the XUV700 only requires 91-octane standard unleaded with a 60-litre fuel tank capacity. Ride compliance is another strong attribute of this mid-size SUV, particularly over pockmarked suburban roads. There's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, and Mahindra's proprietary Frequency Selective Dampers. The result is high damping force over speed bumps to provide solid composure, while still allowing for good ride comfort on bumpier roads thanks to low damping force. Not only will budget-conscious buyers find the XUV700's price points particularly appealing, given the vehicle's seven-seat capacity, fully loaded cabin, and all-around competency, but Mahindra's standard seven-year/150,000km warranty, seven years of roadside assistance and low ownership costs also make it a bang-for-buck winner. The 2025 Mahindra XUV700 should stand out in the mid-size SUV category for budget-conscious families requiring seven-seat capacity, because it also offers all the bells and whistles of more expensive makes and models. Mind you, it's not just the unbeatable drive-away pricing that demands consideration; it's also the combination of a refined powertrain, generous standard equipment, and generous aftersales provisions.
