Hey car enthusiasts and future car owners! Choosing a new car in India is a big decision, right? You're constantly weighing things like your budget, the safety of your family, how much it will cost to maintain each month, the latest tech features, and of course, the company's service network. It's a lot to consider. But what if there was an SUV that ticked most, if not all, these boxes with style and substance? Today, we're diving deep into one such vehicle that has truly shaken up the segment: the new Mahindra XUV700 AX7L 7-Seater Diesel Automatic. This flagship variant promises a premium experience without breaking the bank. Let's find out if it lives up to the hype and if it's the perfect fit for your garage.
Main Highlights
Engine Specifications
- Engine Type: 2.2L mHawk Diesel Engine
- Displacement: 2198 cc
- Maximum Power: 185 PS at 3500 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 450 Nm at 1750-2800 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed Automatic
Design Overview
The XUV700 AX7L truly stands out with its bold and modern design philosophy.
- Exterior: It boasts a commanding presence with its C-shaped LED DRLs, a sharp grille with Mahindra's new Twin Peaks logo, flush door handles (a segment-first), and attractive diamond-cut alloy wheels. The sculpted body lines and dynamic rear design with arrow-shaped LED tail lamps give it a sophisticated yet muscular look. Its road presence is undeniable, turning heads wherever it goes.
- Interior: Step inside, and you are greeted by a cabin that feels truly premium. The dual-tone dashboard, high-quality materials, and a sophisticated layout immediately impress. The highlight is the dual 10.25-inch screen setup that seamlessly integrates the infotainment and instrument cluster. Seating is comfortable across all three rows, with ample space for seven adults on shorter journeys and good comfort for five on longer trips.
Key Features
The AX7L variant is packed with technology and convenience features:
- Infotainment System: Dual 10.25-inch integrated screens (infotainment and digital instrument cluster).
- Connectivity: AdrenoX Connect with over 70 connected car features, built-in Alexa integration.
- Sunroof: Segment-leading Skyroof (Panoramic Sunroof).
- Camera System: 360-degree Surround View System for easy parking and maneuvering.
- Charging: Wireless Phone Charging.
- Climate Control: Dual-zone Automatic Climate Control.
- Other notable features: Smart door handles, electronic parking brake, powered driver seat with memory function, air purifier, driver drowsiness detection, and more.
What is the Ground Clearance of Mahindra XUV700 AX7L 7Str Diesel AT?
The Mahindra XUV700 offers a very practical 200 mm of ground clearance, which is excellent for navigating Indian roads and tackling occasional rough patches with confidence.
What is the Boot Space of Mahindra XUV700 AX7L 7Str Diesel AT?
When all three rows are in use, the XUV700 offers a modest 180 litres of boot space. However, with the third row folded down, this expands significantly to a generous 448 litres, making it very practical for family trips and luggage.
What are the Dimensions of Mahindra XUV700 AX7L 7Str Diesel AT?
- Length: 4695 mm
- Width: 1890 mm
- Height: 1755 mm
- Wheelbase: 2750 mm
Powertrain Options
While we are focusing on the Diesel Automatic, it's good to know the XUV700 generally offers:
- 2.0-litre Turbo Petrol Engine with Manual and Automatic transmission.
- 2.2-litre mHawk Diesel Engine with Manual and Automatic transmission.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option is also available on select Diesel Automatic variants.
Safety Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the XUV700 AX7L, offering an extensive suite:
- 7 Airbags
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Control and Hill Descent Control
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition.
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
NCAP Rating Table
The XUV700 sets a new benchmark for safety in its segment.
| Rating Agency |
Adult Occupant Protection |
Child Occupant Protection |
| Global NCAP |
5 Stars |
4 Stars |
| Bharat NCAP |
5 Stars |
5 Stars |
Rivals of Mahindra XUV700 AX7L 7Str Diesel AT
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7L competes fiercely in the bustling 7-seater premium SUV segment. Its primary rivals include:
- Tata Safari
- MG Hector Plus
- Hyundai Alcazar
- Scorpio N (from its own stable, offering a more rugged alternative)
How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)
Let's break down the advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed choice.
Advantages
- Powerful Performance: The 2.2L Diesel AT engine offers excellent power and torque, making overtakes effortless and highway cruising smooth.
- Advanced Safety: With a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and a comprehensive ADAS suite, it's one of the safest cars in its class.
- Feature-Rich Cabin: The AX7L is loaded with segment-first features like the dual integrated screens, panoramic sunroof, and connected car tech.
- Premium Design: Both the exterior and interior exude a premium feel, giving it strong road presence and a luxurious cabin experience.
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension is well-tuned to absorb road imperfections, offering a comfortable ride for all occupants.
- Value for Money: For the features, safety, and performance it offers, the XUV700 AX7L provides great value compared to its rivals.
Disadvantages
- Third-Row Space: While usable, the third row can feel a bit cramped for adults on long journeys.
- Boot Space with All Rows Up: Boot space is limited when all seven seats are in use.
- Fuel Economy (City): While highway mileage is decent, city fuel economy for the powerful diesel automatic might not be segment-leading.
- Waiting Period: Depending on the variant and location, there might still be a significant waiting period.
- AdrenoX Learning Curve: The extensive tech features, while impressive, might take some time for new users to get accustomed to.
Conclusion
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7L 7-Seater Diesel Automatic is more than just an SUV; it's a statement. It seamlessly blends powerful performance, cutting-edge technology, top-tier safety, and a luxurious feel into an attractive package. For Indian car buyers looking for a premium family SUV that excels in every department – from daily commutes to long highway hauls – the XUV700 AX7L is an incredibly compelling option. Its strong safety credentials, long list of features, and formidable road presence make it a true winner. If you're in the market for a robust, feature-packed, and safe 7-seater SUV, the XUV700 AX7L should undoubtedly be at the top of your test-drive list. It's a game-changer that sets new standards in its segment.
