They say in order to seize the year you need to start it off with a bang, and it looks like Mahindra means business as they have just unveiled a new update for the XUV 700 SUV, which gains changes outside, inside, and even its name in some markets.
Styling on the outside gets a major overhaul, as can be seen at the front, where there are new C-shaped daytime running light designs that flank an updated large chrome grille with the Mahindra Twin-Peak badge on it. Some more elements are the newly redesigned lower bumper section that features a silver accent and the presence of sharper lines that give a more muscular appearance to the front.
The side profile gains new 19-inch alloy wheel designs, flush door handles that pop in and out depending on whether it is locked or unlocked, and some chrome piping on the window seals. Some additional features include gloss blacked-out accents and a new rear spoiler.
The rear also gets noticeable touches, like the new lights featuring an all-new LED daytime lighting signature, as well as some honeycomb-like pattern work integrated into the lights. The lower part of the bumper now houses the lettering of the new XUV 7X0 badging that the car will now go by.
The interior pushes the envelope even more as the car is now offered with not one big center display but also one for the passenger. Altogether, the setup features a three-screen layout with 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster, infotainment system, and a passenger entertainment display.
The driver will get a new two-spoke, multi-function, two-tone leather-wrapped steering wheel that features an illuminated Mahindra emblem, like the one you would find on a TATA vehicle. The cabin also looks cleaner and more minimalistic, as the interior visually appears to consist of fewer physical buttons, meaning that most functions will be situated on the infotainment screen.
Mahindra claims there will still be a large focus on space and comfort for all passengers as they've decided to give you an electric 'Boss mode' function that allows one to move the co-driver seat forward and increase legroom in the back, kind of like a S-Class or 7 Series Beamer would offer.
Some interior goodies that are on offer include a 16-set Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic sunroof, 6- way adjustable seating, rear ventilated seats, and ambient lighting, just to name a few.
For safety, all occopanst are afforded 7 airbags, ESC, a 540 Degree-cam, Hill Hold Assist, PDC for the front and the rear as well as Level 2 ADAS.
Powering the 7X0 will be the same 2l Turbo Petrol that outputs 141kw and 380nm via a 6 speed automatic/Manual transmission or in some other markets a 2.2l Turbo Diesel that outputs 136kw and 450nm via a 6 speed automatic/Manual, these both can be optioned as all-wheel drive system variants.
Though we did not previously have the option of the diesel-powered XUV700, our fingers are crossed in hopes of receiving it this time around, as we know just how much the people of Mzansi love their torque and power!