Hey car enthusiasts and future car owners! Choosing a new car in India is a big decision, right? You're probably juggling a lot of thoughts: "What's my budget?", "Is it safe for my family?", "Will monthly maintenance burn a hole in my pocket?", "Does it have the latest features?", and "How good is the company's service network?". These are all super important questions, especially when you're looking for a reliable, spacious, and feature-packed SUV. Today, we're diving deep into an exciting option that aims to tick many of these boxes for Indian families: the new Mahindra XUV700 MX 7Str. Let's see if this base variant 7-seater truly lives up to the hype and offers great value for your hard-earned money.
Engine Specifications
The Mahindra XUV700 MX 7Str doesn't skimp on power, even in its base trim. It offers two fantastic engine choices:
- Petrol Engine: A powerful 2.0-litre mStallion Turbo Petrol engine. This unit churns out an impressive 197 bhp (brake horsepower) and 380 Nm of torque, ensuring a spirited drive whether you're on the highway or navigating city traffic.
- Diesel Engine: For those who prefer diesel, there's a capable 2.2-litre mHawk Turbo Diesel engine. It delivers a healthy 153 bhp and a robust 360 Nm of torque. This engine is known for its excellent fuel efficiency and strong low-end grunt, perfect for Indian driving conditions.
Both engines are currently offered with a smooth 6-speed manual transmission in the MX variant, giving you direct control over the power.
Design Overview
The XUV700 MX 7Str might be the entry-level 7-seater, but it still carries the striking presence of its siblings.
- Exterior: It boasts the signature C-shaped LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lamps) which give it a distinct identity. The large grille with Mahindra's new Twin Peaks logo makes a bold statement. While it might miss out on some chrome accents or larger alloy wheels of higher variants, the overall silhouette is muscular and commanding. It truly looks like a big, premium SUV from every angle.
- Interior: Step inside, and you'll find a well-laid-out cabin. The MX variant features a combination of fabric upholstery and a no-frills yet functional design. While you won't get all the bells and whistles, the focus is on practicality and space. The dual-screen setup (though smaller than top variants) adds a modern touch. The 7-seater configuration means there's space for the whole family, with decent comfort in the first two rows.
Key Features
Even as the base 7-seater, the XUV700 MX 7Str comes with essential features to enhance your driving experience:
- Infotainment System: An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes center stage, supporting essential connectivity options.
- Instrument Cluster: A 7-inch digital instrument cluster provides key driving information clearly.
- Connectivity: USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity are standard for your entertainment and charging needs.
- Comfort & Convenience: Power windows, electrically adjustable ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors), steering-mounted audio controls, and a manual AC unit ensure a comfortable journey. Please note that features like a sunroof, 360-degree camera, wireless charging, or advanced climate control are typically found in higher AX variants and are not part of the MX package.
Ground Clearance, Boot Space, and Dimensions
- Ground Clearance: The Mahindra XUV700 offers a practical ground clearance of around 200 mm, which is excellent for tackling varied Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and unpaved roads, without much worry.
- Boot Space: With all three rows of seats in use, the XUV700 MX 7Str offers a modest boot space of approximately 150-170 litres. However, if you fold down the third row, the cargo area expands significantly, making it very versatile for luggage or larger items.
- Dimensions: This SUV is quite substantial in size, providing great road presence and interior room.
- Length: 4695 mm
- Width: 1890 mm
- Height: 1755 mm
- Wheelbase: 2750 mm
Powertrain Options
As mentioned earlier, the XUV700 MX 7Str offers two robust powertrain options:
- 2.0L Turbo Petrol with 6-speed Manual: Ideal for those who enjoy quick acceleration and refined performance.
- 2.2L Turbo Diesel with 6-speed Manual: Perfect for buyers seeking strong torque, better fuel efficiency, and effortless highway cruising.
Safety Features
Mahindra has always prioritized safety, and the XUV700 MX 7Str continues this tradition with a strong foundation.
- Dual Airbags (Driver and Front Passenger)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
- Rear Parking Sensors
- All Four Disc Brakes
- Speed Alert System
- Seatbelt Reminder for Front Occupants
NCAP Rating Table
Safety is a non-negotiable for family cars, and the XUV700 shines brightly here.
| NCAP Rating Type |
Adult Occupant Protection |
Child Occupant Protection |
| Global NCAP |
5 Stars |
4 Stars |
| Bharat NCAP |
5 Stars (Expected) |
5 Stars (Expected) |
Note: While Global NCAP has awarded 5 stars for adult safety and 4 stars for child safety, the XUV700 is currently undergoing Bharat NCAP testing. Given Mahindra's commitment to safety and the XUV700's robust build, it is widely expected to achieve similar stellar results in Bharat NCAP, making it one of the safest SUVs in India.
Rivals of Mahindra XUV700 MX 7Str
The 7-seater SUV segment in India is competitive. The Mahindra XUV700 MX 7Str faces off against some strong contenders:
- Tata Safari
- MG Hector Plus
- Hyundai Alcazar
- Mahindra Scorpio N (especially its lower variants)
- Kia Carens (though more MPV-like, it's a strong 7-seater option)
How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)
Every car has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a balanced look at the XUV700 MX 7Str:
- Pros:
- Powerful Engines: Both petrol and diesel engines offer excellent performance for their class.
- Outstanding Safety: A segment-leading Global NCAP 5-star rating gives immense peace of mind.
- Bold Road Presence: Its large size and attractive design make it stand out on the road.
- Spacious Cabin: Generous space in the first two rows and adequate space for children or short distances in the third row.
- Value for Money: Offers a lot of car for its price point, especially considering the engine options and safety features.
- Good Ride Quality: Handles Indian roads well, offering a comfortable ride.
- Mahindra Service Network: Extensive service network across India.
- Cons:
- Limited Features in MX Variant: Misses out on premium features like sunroof, advanced infotainment with AdrenoX, wireless charging, and connected car tech found in higher variants.
- Third-Row Space: While present, the third row can feel cramped for adults on long journeys.
- Boot Space (7-seater mode): Very limited luggage space with all three rows up.
- Manual AC: The MX variant comes with manual air conditioning, which might be a slight drawback for some.
- No Automatic Transmission Option: Currently, the MX variant is only available with a manual gearbox.
Conclusion
So, is the Mahindra XUV700 MX 7Str the right 7-seater SUV for you? If you're a prospective Indian car buyer looking for an incredibly safe, powerful, and spacious family SUV without breaking the bank on the top-end features, then the MX 7Str is a seriously compelling option. It delivers on the core aspects: performance, safety, and road presence. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of its more expensive siblings, it offers tremendous value, especially considering its robust build and the peace of mind that comes with its safety credentials. It's a practical, powerful, and secure choice for families needing a reliable 7-seater SUV. Do visit your nearest Mahindra showroom for a test drive and experience it yourself!
