The 2024 Mahindra XUV700 has rolled onto Australian streets, and it’s turning heads. This seven-seat SUV combines affordability, practicality, and a dash of flair. Let’s dive into the details and see if it’s the right fit for you.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Sharp Price: The XUV700 enters the market with an impressive price tag, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
• Feature-Rich: Loaded with tech and creature comforts, including a panoramic sunroof, touchscreen infotainment, and advanced safety features.
• Plush Ride Quality: Whether you’re navigating city streets or venturing off-road, the XUV700’s suspension keeps things smooth.
• Spacious Second Row: Passengers in the back get ample legroom and natural light.

Cons

• Quality Concerns: While Mahindra has made strides in quality, some skeptics still raise eyebrows.
• Fuel Efficiency: The XUV700 isn’t the most frugal SUV in its class.
• Safety Perception: Despite safety features, lingering doubts about Indian-built vehicles persist.

How Much Does it Cost? It Fits the Budget

The XUV700 boasts a starting price tag of around $36,990 AUD for the base AX7 variant. This makes it a very attractive option in the crowded mid-size SUV segment. The higher-spec AX7L bumps the price up to $39,990 AUD, but still offers good value for the features you get.

Features and Benefits

• Tech-Savvy Interior: The XUV700 boasts a user-friendly infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a premium sound setup.
• Seven Seats: Perfect for large families or carpooling.
• Safety Suite: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and multiple airbags.
• Turbocharged Engine: The 2.0L engine delivers decent power for city and highway driving.

Safety

Mahindra takes safety seriously. The XUV700 includes:

• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): These features enhance safety by preventing collisions and assisting the driver.
• Solid Build: The XUV700’s structure is designed to absorb impact energy.

On and Off the Track

Running Costs: Keeping it Affordable

The XUV700 is expected to have decent fuel efficiency for its size, thanks to the modern engine. While official figures aren’t yet available, early estimates suggest a combined fuel consumption figure in the range of 9-10 liters per 100 kilometers.

Mahindra is also offering a competitive 7-year/150,000 km warranty, which should provide peace of mind for ownership costs.

Standing Out from the Crowd: How Does it Compare?

The XUV700 enters a competitive segment populated by established players like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest. While it can’t match their off-road prowess (due to the lack of AWD), it counters with a more feature-rich interior and a sharper price tag.

If you prioritize technology, comfort, and value for money, the XUV700 is a compelling option. However, if tackling tough terrain is your primary concern, the established brands might be a better fit.

Conclusion

A Promising New Contender

The Mahindra XUV700 is a breath of fresh air in the mid-size SUV market. It offers a compelling package of features, space, and performance at a price that’s hard to beat. While the lack of a proven track record and AWD option might give some buyers pause, the XUV700 is definitely worth considering, especially for tech-savvy families who prioritize value for money.

Rating: 7.5/10

The XUV700 is a strong debut for Mahindra in the Australian market. It might not be perfect, but it offers a unique combination of features, space, and affordability that makes it a contender in this competitive segment. If you’re looking for a feature-rich and spacious SUV without breaking the bank, the XUV700 is definitely worth a test drive.