Mahindra XUV700 AX5 S 7 Str Diesel

Looking for your next family SUV in India? We know what is on your mind. Budget-friendly options that do not compromise on safety. Monthly maintenance costs that will not break the bank. The latest features that make every drive enjoyable. And, of course, reliable company service when you need it most. Choosing the right car is a big decision, and today, we are going to dive deep into a hot contender that ticks many of these boxes: the new Mahindra XUV700 AX5 S 7 Str Diesel. Is this the perfect 7-seater SUV for your garage? Let us find out.

Main Highlights of the XUV700 AX5 S 7 Str Diesel

Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the XUV700 AX5 S Diesel packs a punch with Mahindra's proven diesel engine.

• Engine Type: 2.2L mHawk CRDe Diesel engine
• Maximum Power: Around 185 PS (BHP)
• Peak Torque: Around 420 Nm (for manual and automatic variants, might vary slightly)
• Transmission: Available with both 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Automatic transmission options.

This diesel powerhouse ensures strong performance, whether you are cruising on the highway or tackling city traffic with a full load.

Design Overview

Exterior Design

The XUV700 AX5 S carries forward the imposing and modern design language of the XUV700 family. It looks bold and premium on Indian roads.

• Front: Features a commanding grille with Mahindra's Twin Peaks logo, sharp C-shaped LED DRLs, and impressive LED headlamps.
• Side: Dynamic lines, large wheel arches housing 17-inch alloy wheels, and flush door handles (though not the smart pop-out ones of higher trims) give it a sleek profile.
• Rear: Arrowhead LED tail lamps, a sculpted tailgate, and a robust bumper complete the confident look.

Interior Design

Step inside, and you are greeted with a spacious and well-appointed cabin designed for comfort and convenience.

• Layout: A dual-screen setup dominates the dashboard, giving a futuristic feel.
• Seating: Comfortable 7-seater layout with good space in the first two rows. The third row is best suited for children or for short journeys for adults.
• Materials: Good quality plastics and fabric upholstery (or leatherette in some options) that feel premium for its segment.

Key Features

The XUV700 AX5 S variant comes loaded with several features that enhance your driving experience and passenger comfort.

• Infotainment System: Dual 10.25-inch screens for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster.
• Connectivity: Mahindra AdrenoX connected car technology for various smart features.
• Sunroof: A large Panoramic Skyroof (sunroof) that adds to the cabin's airy feel.
• Climate Control: Automatic climate control ensures consistent cabin temperature.
• Other Features: Push-button start/stop, LED DRLs, cornering lamps, cruise control.

Please note that advanced features like a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) are typically available in higher AX7 and AX7L variants of the XUV700 range.

What is the Ground Clearance of XUV700?

The Mahindra XUV700 offers a practical ground clearance, which is great for Indian road conditions and mild off-roading.

• Ground Clearance: Approximately 200 mm.

What is the Boot Space of XUV700?

When it comes to luggage, the XUV700 offers versatile boot space depending on your seating configuration.

• All 3 Rows Up: Around 60 litres (sufficient for small bags).
• 3rd Row Folded: Around 460 litres (ample for family trips).
• 2nd & 3rd Row Folded: Over 1100 litres (massive space for large cargo).

What are the Dimensions of XUV700?

The XUV700 is a substantial SUV, giving it a commanding road presence.

• Length: 4695 mm
• Width: 1890 mm
• Height: 1755 mm
• Wheelbase: 2750 mm

Powertrain Options

While we are focusing on the XUV700 AX5 S 7 Str Diesel, it is worth knowing that the XUV700 series offers more choices.

• Diesel: The 2.2L mHawk Diesel engine (as detailed above).
• Petrol: A powerful 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol engine, delivering around 200 PS of power.

Both engines are available with manual and automatic transmission options, catering to different driving preferences.

Safety Features

Mahindra has always prioritised safety, and the XUV700 is a shining example. Even the AX5 S variant comes with robust safety features.

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Dual Front Airbags (higher variants get up to 7 airbags)
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Rear Parking Sensors
• All-Wheel Disc Brakes

NCAP Rating Table

The XUV700 has an outstanding safety record, validated by independent crash tests.

Rating Type	Adult Occupant Safety	Child Occupant Safety
Global NCAP	5 Stars	4 Stars
Bharat NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars

This stellar performance makes the XUV700 one of the safest cars in India.

Rivals of XUV700 AX5 S 7 Str Diesel

In the highly competitive 7-seater SUV segment, the XUV700 AX5 S faces strong competition from:

• Tata Safari: Another popular Indian SUV known for its robust build and comfortable ride.
• MG Hector Plus: Offers a feature-rich cabin and a distinctive design.
• Hyundai Alcazar: Known for its refined engines and premium interior.
• Kia Carens: While more of an MUV, it offers a strong value proposition in the 7-seater space.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let us look at a balanced view of the XUV700 AX5 S 7 Str Diesel.

Advantages

• Powerful Diesel Engine: Offers excellent performance and decent fuel efficiency for an SUV of its size.
• Impressive Safety: Class-leading 5-star NCAP ratings provide immense peace of mind.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Dual 10.25-inch screens, panoramic sunroof, and connected car tech make it feel modern and premium.
• Commanding Road Presence: Its bold design and large dimensions ensure it stands out.
• Comfortable Ride: Well-tuned suspension offers a good balance between ride comfort and handling.
• Spacious First Two Rows: Ample room for five adults.

Disadvantages

• Third Row Space: Like many 7-seater SUVs, the third row is cramped for adults on longer journeys.
• Missing Advanced Features: AX5 S misses out on features like 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and ADAS which are available in higher trims or some rivals.
• Manual Gearbox in Diesel: The manual clutch can feel a bit heavy in stop-and-go city traffic.
• Boot Space with All Rows Up: Minimal boot space when all seven seats are in use.
• Mahindra Service Network: While improving, it might still not match the widespread reach of some competitors in certain regions.

Conclusion

The Mahindra XUV700 AX5 S 7 Str Diesel emerges as a very strong contender in the Indian 7-seater SUV market. It brings together a powerful diesel engine, segment-leading safety, a host of modern features, and an impressive design at a competitive price point. While it does miss out on some high-end gizmos of its top variants, the AX5 S strikes an excellent balance between cost and equipment, making it a value-for-money proposition for families.

If you are looking for a safe, spacious, and powerful diesel SUV for your family with a panoramic sunroof and excellent tech, and you do not mind missing out on some premium conveniences like a 360-degree camera, the XUV700 AX5 S Diesel deserves a serious look. It truly offers a lot for its price, making it an informed choice for many Indian car buyers.