The Indian mid-size SUV space is about to witness a major shake-up as Mahindra & Mahindra unveils the all-new Mahindra XUV 7XO today, January 5. Positioned as a heavily updated and strategically rebranded version of the immensely successful XUV700, the XUV 7XO represents far more than a routine facelift. It marks Mahindra’s intent to future-proof its flagship monocoque SUV in an increasingly tech-driven and premium-conscious market.

Since its launch in August 2021, the XUV700 has sold over 3,00,000 units, cementing Mahindra’s dominance in the premium SUV category. However, with rivals like the Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, and even Mahindra’s own Scorpio N upping the ante, the XUV 7XO arrives as a timely and necessary evolution.

Borrowing design inspiration and advanced technology from Mahindra’s new-generation electric models—particularly the XEV 9S—the XUV 7XO introduces a bold new identity, cutting-edge cabin tech, enhanced safety systems, and refined powertrain options, all while retaining the strengths that made the XUV700 a bestseller.

A New Design Direction: Familiar Yet Futuristic

At first glance, the Mahindra XUV 7XO maintains the muscular and upright stance that has defined the XUV lineup, but closer inspection reveals substantial updates that give it a far more contemporary and premium appearance.

Front-End Styling Inspired by Mahindra’s Electric Vision

The front fascia has been completely refreshed to align with Mahindra’s latest SUV design language. A revised grille, featuring vertical chrome elements, dominates the nose and is flanked by sleek LED daytime running lights positioned high on the bonnet line. These DRLs are reminiscent of those seen on the smaller XUV 3XO, while the overall layout mirrors the futuristic aesthetic of the XEV 9S electric SUV.

Lower down, the XUV 7XO gets new dual-pod LED projector headlamps, integrated neatly into the bumper, along with LED fog lamps. A more aggressively sculpted bumper and faux skid plates enhance the SUV’s rugged appeal without compromising its urban sophistication.

Side Profile and Rear Updates

In profile, the silhouette remains largely unchanged, but Mahindra has introduced new alloy wheels, expected to be 18 inches in size, giving the SUV a sportier stance. Flush-fitting door handles—first seen on the XUV700—continue here, reinforcing the premium feel.

The rear receives one of the most noticeable updates. The XUV 7XO now features new LED tail lamps with updated internal lighting elements, inspired once again by the XEV 9S. Some versions also showcase a connected full-width light bar with inverted L-shaped motifs, adding a modern signature at night. A roof-mounted spoiler, shark-fin antenna, and revised rear bumper complete the exterior transformation.

Fresh Colour Options

Mahindra is also expected to expand the colour palette. Teasers have already confirmed a new red shade, similar to the one seen on the XEV 9S, hinting at more contemporary hues aimed at younger buyers and urban families.

A Major Leap Inside: The Most Tech-Heavy Cabin in Its Segment

If the exterior signals evolution, the interior represents a revolution. The Mahindra XUV 7XO introduces the brand’s most advanced cabin ever on an internal combustion engine vehicle.

Triple-Screen Dashboard: A Segment Benchmark

The headline feature is the BIS-approved Coast-to-Coast HD triple-screen setup, measuring approximately 3 x 31.2 cm. This layout includes:

• A fully digital driver’s instrument cluster

• A large central touchscreen infotainment system

• A dedicated co-driver (passenger) display

This setup, previously exclusive to Mahindra’s electric concepts, makes its debut in the ICE lineup with the XUV 7XO and immediately sets a new benchmark in the segment.

New Steering Wheel and Cabin Themes

The SUV features a new two-spoke, flat-bottom steering wheel borrowed from the XEV 9S, complete with the latest Mahindra logo and mounted controls. Some variants may even get an illuminated logo for added flair.

The dashboard adopts a layered, triple-tone design, with improved upholstery, redesigned door trims, and premium materials throughout. Mahindra is expected to offer multiple interior themes, including lighter shades that enhance the sense of space and airiness.

Despite the digital focus, Mahindra has smartly retained physical buttons for essential controls, particularly for climate settings, ensuring usability remains intuitive while driving.

Features That Redefine Expectations

The Mahindra XUV 7XO is poised to be one of the most feature-rich SUVs in the ₹15–30 lakh segment.

Comfort and Convenience Highlights

Key comfort and convenience features include:

• 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

• Panoramic sunroof

• Powered driver and co-driver seats, with memory function for the driver

• Boss mode for the co-driver seat

• Ventilated seats for both first and second rows

• Dual-zone automatic climate control

• Wireless phone charging (front and rear)

• Multi-colour ambient lighting

Rear-seat passengers benefit from improved comfort features, including rear seat ventilation and Mahindra’s innovative Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) functionality, which enables an in-car theatre experience.

Premium Audio and Connected Tech

Audio duties are handled by a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos, a significant upgrade over the outgoing model’s Sony setup.

The SUV also introduces upgraded Adrenox+ connected car technology, offering smarter, more personalised digital experiences, over-the-air updates, and enhanced vehicle monitoring.

Safety Takes Centre Stage

Mahindra has always placed strong emphasis on safety, and the XUV 7XO builds on that reputation.

Standard and Advanced Safety Features

Safety equipment is expected to include:

• Seven airbags (six standard across variants)

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

• Hill Hold Assist

• Front and rear parking sensors

• ISOFIX child seat mounts

540-Degree Camera and Level 2+ ADAS

One of the standout upgrades is the 540-degree camera system, which goes beyond a traditional 360-degree setup by adding underbody visibility—particularly useful for tight manoeuvres and rough terrain.

Higher variants will also feature Level 2+ ADAS with Sense+, offering:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Lane keep assist

• Automatic emergency braking

• Enhanced real-time ADAS visualisation with intuitive graphics

Mahindra’s focus on clearer alerts and better visual feedback aims to build greater driver confidence and reduce fatigue on long highway journeys.

Powertrain Options: Proven and Powerful

Under the hood, the Mahindra XUV 7XO retains the familiar yet robust engine lineup from the XUV700, with minor refinements expected rather than wholesale changes.

Petrol Engine

• 2.0-litre turbocharged mStallion petrol

• Power output: 200 PS

• Torque: 380 Nm

• Transmission options: 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic

• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

Diesel Engine

• 2.2-litre mHawk diesel

• Power output: Up to 185 PS

• Torque: Up to 450 Nm

• Transmission options: 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic

• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive and All-wheel drive (AWD)

The AWD system remains tailored for snow, gravel, and light off-roading rather than hardcore trails.

For reference, the outgoing XUV700’s diesel was offered in two states of tune—153 hp and 182 hp—while the XUV 7XO is expected to focus on the higher-output configurations.

Expected Price, Booking Details, and Positioning

Pre-bookings for the Mahindra XUV 7XO are already open with a token amount of ₹21,000. Test drives and full-scale bookings are expected to begin shortly after the official launch.

Expected Price Range

Industry and media reports suggest the XUV 7XO will be priced aggressively despite its tech upgrades:

• Expected starting price: ₹14–15 lakh (ex-showroom)

• Expected top-end price: ₹26–28.5 lakh (ex-showroom)

Mahindra appears keen to maintain its value-for-money reputation while offering features that rival entry-level luxury SUVs.

Rivals and Market Competition: XUV 7XO vs Scorpio N vs Tata Safari

The Mahindra XUV 7XO enters a fiercely competitive segment and will go head-to-head with:

• Tata Safari

• Hyundai Alcazar

• MG Hector Plus

• Mahindra Scorpio N (internal rival)

While the Scorpio N offers unmatched ruggedness with its body-on-frame construction and proper 4x4 system, the XUV 7XO focuses on urban sophistication, highway stability, and cutting-edge technology.

The Tata Safari, now available with a 1.5-litre Hyperion petrol engine (170 PS) alongside its diesel, continues to appeal to buyers prioritising ride comfort and plush seating.

Mahindra XUV 7XO launched
As per co, 80 percent volumes comes from AX 7 variants
AX 7 Diesel manual starts 18.95 lakh ( core volume generator )
AX7 L priced at 22.47 lakhs
All prices introductory for 40k units initially

@CNBC_Awaaz pic.twitter.com/DCg21GefAk— Deepali Rana (@deepaliranaa) January 5, 2026

XUV 7XO vs XUV700: Why the Upgrade Matters

The “XO” suffix represents a clear shift towards a digital-first, premium experience.

Compared to the XUV700, the XUV 7XO offers:

• Triple 12.3-inch screens instead of dual displays

• 16-speaker Harman Kardon system with Dolby Atmos

• New two-spoke steering wheel

• 540-degree camera replacing the 360-degree setup

• Ventilated seats for both rows

• Advanced automatic parking assistance

Who Should Buy What?

• Choose the Mahindra XUV 7XO if you want the most advanced tech, premium cabin experience, and excellent highway dynamics.

• Choose the Scorpio N if you need serious off-road capability and rugged durability.

• Choose the Tata Safari if ride comfort, rear-seat space, and a more European suspension feel are your top priorities.

Final Thoughts

The Mahindra XUV 7XO is not just a facelift—it is a comprehensive reinvention of a proven formula. By blending futuristic design, class-leading technology, robust safety, and powerful engines, Mahindra has created a premium SUV that feels ready for the next phase of India’s automotive evolution.

As prices and variant-wise details are revealed, the XUV 7XO is poised to set new benchmarks in the segment and reinforce Mahindra’s position as the country’s leading SUV manufacturer.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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