You’re on a highway, surrounded by cars that cost twice as much yet your cockpit has a wider screena an a more intelligent assistant and a sense of space that makes them feel cramped. This isn’t a fantasy an this is the daily reality of owning the 2024 Mahindra XUV700 AX7 Luxury. When launched, the XUV700 didn’t just enter the market it redefined the rulebook for what a ₹25 lakh Indian SUV could be. Three years on, amidst fierce competition the updated AX7 Luxury variant proves this wasn’t a fluke. It is a meticulous evolution, packing even more premium features refined tech and that unforgettable road presence into a package that continues to embarrass rivals from Toyota an Hyundai and MG. If you’re searching for a family SUV that feels like a technological flagship without the flagship price, the hunt ends here.
Key Highlights
- Segment Defining Screens: The iconic twin 10.25 inch screens (digital cluster an infotainment) now run the latest AdrenoX software with over the air updates and expanded connected features.
- Class Leading Audio: Sony 3D surround sound system with 12 speakers, including a personal driver headrest speaker for navigation alerts.
- Luxury & Comfort: Premium perforated leather seats, dual zone climate control, 360-degree camera and a massive panoramic sunroof. New: Ventilated front seats in the 2024 update.
- Power Choices: The renowned 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol (200 PS) or the torquey 2.2L mHawk Diesel (185 PS), both available with 6 speed manual or 6 speed automatic transmissions.
- Autonomous Tech: Equipped with Level 1 ADAS featuring Smart Pilot Assist (adaptive cruise with stop & go) Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking.
- Price & Variant: The AX7 Luxury variant is priced between ₹24 to 27 Lakh (ex-showroom), representing the peak of the XUV700 range.
- Unmatched Space: True 3-row seating with a practical third row suitable for adults on medium journeys, and a clever folding mechanism.
- Safety Pedigree: Awarded a 5-star Global NCAP rating, featuring 7 airbags, ESP, and a high-strength steel body shell.
The Unbeatable Value Proposition
The XUV700’s strategy was simple: offer features from ₹50 lakh SUVs at half the price. The 2024 AX7 Luxury variant doubles down on this. For roughly ₹26 lakh an you get a panoramic sunroof, ADAS a Sony sound system and dual 10.25 inch screens. a combination still unmatched by the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari or even the Toyota Innova Hycross in this price bracket. It’s not just about features; it’s about the perception of luxury and tech it delivers, making every journey feel special and every passenger feel valued.
Powertrain: The Potent & Efficient Heart
Whether you choose the spirited turbo petrol or the mile crushing diesel, both engines are tuned for real world Indian conditions. The petrol is smooth and rev happy an perfect for city sprints and highway overtakes. The diesel delivers a massive wave of torque, making laden highway driving effortless. The 6 speed torque converter automatic is particularly refined an offering smooth shifts and intuitive responses. The driving modes (Zip, Zap, Zoom) genuinely alter the vehicle’s character from efficient to eager.
Design & Presence: The Emperor’s New Armor
The XUV700’s design has aged like fine wine. It’s bold, upright, and commands instant respect. The AX7 Luxury adds subtle chrome accents, distinctive alloy wheels an and that imposing front grille with the illuminated Mahindra logo. It looks substantial, expensive, and purpose built a far cry from the MPV like silhouettes of some rivals. The LED lighting signatures, front and rear, are instantly recognizable day or night.
Cabin & Tech: Living in the Future
This is where the XUV700 delivers its knockout punch. The seamless twin screen dashboard is wow factor that hasn’t diminished. The new AdrenoX OS is faster and supports more natural voice commands (“Hey AdrenoX an open the sunroof”). The Sony audio system is an absolute treasure for music lovers. The addition of ventilated seats for 2024 is a masterstroke an addressing a key need in Indian summers. The quality of materials an from the soft touch dashboard to the leather wrapped steering wheel an makes the cabin feel a segment above its price.
Safety: A Fortress on Wheels
The 5 star Global NCAP rating isn’t just a sticker, it a core philosophy. The XUV700 is built like a tank with a robust body structure. The 7 airbags (including a knee airbag for the driver) and comprehensive electronic aids (ESP an roll over mitigation an hill hold) provide unparalleled peace of mind. The ADAS suite, while not fully autonomous, adds a significant layer of safety during long, monotonous highway drives, actively helping prevent collisions and lane drift.
Who Is This For? (Spoiler: Almost Everyone)
This SUV is the ultimate all-rounder for the ambitious Indian family. It’s for:
- The tech-savvy father who wants the best gadgets.
- The safety-conscious mother who prioritizes protection.
- The travel-loving family that needs three rows for grandparents and kids.
- The value-driven professional who wants premium badge perception without the premium debt.
Final Verdict: The Benchmark, Re-Benchmarked
The 2024 Mahindra XUV700 AX7 Luxury is a rare phenomenon the product that launched as disruptor an has managed to stay disruptive through continuous improvement. It isn’t just a “good value” SUV. it is quite possibly the most complete family vehicle under ₹30 lakh in India today. It masterfully blends cutting edge technology an uncompromised safety, genuine luxury and practical space into a design that screams prestige. While rivals have caught up in some areas, none have managed to replicate the complete, awe inspiring package the XUV700 offers. If your budget stretches to this variant, the decision is almost a no brainer. The XUV700 didn’t just set the benchmark. it is the benchmark. And it’s daring anyone to try and top it.