2023 Mahindra XUV700 review

Does the new Mahindra XUV700 have what it takes to challenge the status quo?

Mahindra has been quietly going about its business in regional Australia for many decades.

The Indian brand is well known in the bush for its farming and agriculture machinery, including the rugged 4x4 Pik-Up ute.

City dealerships, however, remain relatively scarce.

How is the 2023 Mahindra XUV700 priced?

In 2012, Mahindra launched its first mid-sized SUV, the XUV500, and for the above reason it was somewhat of a rarity on our roads.

Mahindra executives are hoping the XUV700, launched earlier this year, will shift the brand up a gear.

The new model has two spec levels, AX7 ($36,990) and AX7L ($39,990).

2023 Mahindra XUV700 specs

Powering the line-up is a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine developing a handy 149kW and 380Nm, matched to a six-speed automatic driving through the front wheels (there is no AWD option).

Claimed fuel consumption is 8.3L/100km.

Measuring 4695mm and sitting on a 2750mm wheelbase, the XUV700 is close in size to the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander and is configured as a seven-seater.

It’s nicely proportioned and has a few party tricks up its sleeve, such as flush-fitting door handles that angle out when you unlock, and a full-length sunroof.

The interior trim and white faux leather make a statement, though not providing a more practical colour option seems a bit risky for what is likely to be a family workhorse.

How are the 2023 Mahindra XUV700’s features and interior design?

The standard features list is comprehensive, with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, faux leather trim, 18-inch alloys and a panoramic sunroof.

The AX7L gains adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, Sony 12-speaker audio, wireless charging and a 360-degree surround view camera.

A five-star ANCAP rating has eluded the brand to date and the XUV700 remains unrated.

The AX7L is fitted with seven airbags and its advanced driver aid systems (ADAS) include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assistance.

Sitting inside, it’s hard not to be impressed by the twin screens in the dash, light airy ambience, and good all-round vision.

In the second row the seat base is higher and third-row access is best left to kids, though it does have air vents.

The front seats look good but are too firm and unsupportive.

Despite the inclusion of reach adjustment (the base XUV has tilt only), the overall driving position feels a touch off.

The audio system takes a while to come on after selecting drive, and if you turn off the engine stop/start function when the engine has stopped, you must select park and restart the engine manually.

2023 Mahindra XUV700’s drive and handling

Mahindra’s new 2.0-litre turbo engine/six-speed auto powertrain is a punchy package, smooth-shifting around town and quick to react on the open road.

It’s quiet at cruising speeds, with Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels as good as the class leaders.

A sound mechanical and suspension package is let down by a power steering set-up that’s too lightly weighted at low speeds.

It does firm up at higher speeds, but the vague feeling persists and the aptly-named Wanderer tyres do exactly that if pushed too hard through the bends.

2023 Mahindra XUV700 – Final thoughts

There’s still a lot to like about this newcomer, not least its build quality backed by a seven-year/150,000km warranty.

It just needs a few mechanical tweaks and a five-star ANCAP rating for it to prosper.

Pros: Specification level; engine performance; ride quality
Cons: No ANCAP rating; wheelspin under brisk acceleration

Specs:

• Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo
• Transmission: Six-speed auto
• Power: 149kW Torque: 380N
• Fuel consumption: 8.3L/100km
• Spare tyre: Temporary use
• ANCAP: Not tested
• Price: From $36,990 drive away