Mahindra XUV 7XO to debut in India with major design and tech upgrades

Mahindra & Mahindra is preparing for the global debut of the XUV 7XO, a new premium sport utility vehicle that represents the next phase of the XUV700 line-up. The model is expected to replace the existing XUV700, with the company confirming that production of the older version will end after the new vehicle is launched.

Ahead of the official unveiling, undisguised images of the XUV 7XO have surfaced, offering a clearer look at the exterior and interior updates. The images show the SUV finished in a dark shade, widely reported as Midnight Black, and reveal a noticeably revised front profile.

The updated design includes a redesigned grille with prominent vertical slats and Mahindra’s Twin Peaks emblem at the centre. The headlights have been reworked with new LED elements, updated daytime running lights and animated indicators, giving the vehicle a sharper and more contemporary appearance. A revised bumper with sleeker fog lamps, a silver skid plate and a reshaped air intake further distinguishes the new model from its predecessor.

Viewed from the side and rear, the XUV 7XO retains the familiar proportions of the XUV700, reinforcing Mahindra’s positioning of the model as an evolution rather than a complete redesign. The changes are aimed at enhancing road presence while maintaining the recognisable silhouette that has contributed to the XUV700’s popularity.

Inside the cabin, the XUV 7XO adopts a more premium layout inspired by Mahindra’s newer electric vehicle interiors. While the overall design closely resembles the layout seen in the company’s recent models, the focus is clearly on luxury and comfort. The cabin features a brown and beige colour scheme, soft-touch materials and refined trim elements designed to elevate the overall experience.

The seats appear more plush, with upgraded upholstery, while tan brown accents extend to areas such as the steering wheel. The emphasis on premium materials reflects Mahindra’s intention to attract buyers seeking an upmarket three-row SUV without entering luxury-brand pricing.

Technology is a central feature of the XUV 7XO. The SUV is set to offer three 12.3-inch screens positioned across the dashboard, serving as the digital instrument cluster, central infotainment display and a dedicated front passenger entertainment screen. This wide digital layout is intended to create a more immersive and modern cockpit.

Audio and connectivity features have also been upgraded. The vehicle will be equipped with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos support. An in-car entertainment mode with bring-your-own-device functionality is designed to enhance the experience for passengers, particularly on longer journeys.

In terms of comfort and convenience, the XUV 7XO is expected to offer wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats and second-row seats with slide and recline functions. Additional features include a panoramic sunroof, powered front seats with driver memory and ambient lighting.

Safety and driver assistance systems form a key part of the vehicle’s positioning. The XUV 7XO will feature a 540-degree camera system, combining surround-view imaging with additional visual coverage. It will also be equipped with Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems, offering functions designed to support drivers during highway and urban driving.

Under the bonnet, the XUV 7XO is expected to retain the same powertrain options as the outgoing XUV700. These include a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 2.2-litre diesel engine, paired with either manual or automatic transmissions. An all-wheel-drive option, currently available on the top variants of the XUV700, is also likely to continue.

The XUV 7XO is expected to be positioned in the ₹20 to ₹30 lakh segment, although official pricing will be announced at launch. Mahindra has said the vehicle is aimed at customers seeking a spacious, technology-rich family SUV with a premium feel.

Context

The launch of the XUV 7XO reflects the broader shift in India’s automotive market towards more feature-rich and technology-focused SUVs. As competition intensifies in the premium three-row segment, manufacturers are increasingly emphasising digital interfaces, advanced safety systems and cabin refinement. For Mahindra, the XUV 7XO represents a strategic step to build on the success of the XUV700 while aligning the brand with evolving consumer expectations.