Mahindra XUV700: Which variant to buy?

Mahindra will begin bookings starting October 7th while deliveries will start Diwali onwards.

Published On Oct 05, 2021 08:00:00 AM

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Possibly the most anticipated vehicle of 2021, the Mahindra XUV700 is once again equipped with the right ammunition with its killer value proposition to sweep out the competition. If you’re in the market for one, what you must know is that the company will begin bookings starting October 7^th, and deliveries are likely to begin around Diwali, which happens to be in the first week of November. With a wide variant mix, we simplify the range.

AX3 is the best budget variant
AX5 is the value pick
AX7 is tech-loaded, but pricey

Which engine and transmission to pick?

Mahindra offers the XUV700 with two engine options – 2.0-litre turbo petrol and 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine. The petrol is the most powerful offering under Rs 30 lakh, boasting of an output of 200hp and 380Nm, mated to either a 6-speed manual or automatic, transmitting power only to the front wheels. The diesel on the other hand is offered in three states of tune – 155hp and 360Nm with a 6-speed manual in the base MX variant; the other variants get either a 185hp/420Nm tune with a 6-speed manual, or a 185hp/450Nm tune with a 6-speed automatic.

Buyers who seek thrilling performance or those who have a limited monthly commute are likely to opt for the petrol version. Those munching higher number of kilometres per month, or who simply prioritise fuel efficiency are likely to pick the diesel engine. The automatic transmission commands a premium of Rs 1.60 lakh over the comparable manual variant, here buyers will have to pay for convenience. Only the top-spec AX7 diesel-automatic gets an all-wheel drive option at a premium of Rs 1.30 lakh over the comparable front-wheel drive variant. The all-wheel drive will be particularly useful in sticky situations or in snowy conditions in the northern part of India; the front-wheel drive layout, however, is adequate for most mild off-roading trails which majority of its owners will subject their vehicles to, thanks to the XUV’s high ground clearance, chunky tyres and other driving aids.

MX variant

Those who simply want a large-sized vehicle without breaking the bank, are likely to find value in the MX variant’s proposition. Its Rs 11.99 lakh for the 200hp petrol and the Rs 12.49 lakh for the 155hp diesel (both manuals), place it in the price territory of sub-4-metre compact SUVs, and at this price it holds a distinct size, space and performance advantage over others. Features you get for the money are pop-type door handles, roof rails, rear spoiler, an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and 4 speakers, steering-mounted controls and electric mirror adjustment.

AX3 variant

For a premium of Rs 2 lakh over the MX variant, the AX3 variant makes a strong case for itself, especially for those who want premium features but are restricted by budget. On the outside it features plastic wheel caps, fog lamps and LED DRLs, however, the biggest add-ons are on the inside, where it gets the twin 10.25-inch full digital screens, one for the instrument cluster and the other for the touchscreen. These significantly lift the cabin’s premium quotient. What’s more is that it also features wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay, built-in navigation with live traffic updates, AdrenoX connected car tech, six speakers with sound staging, built-in Alexa integration and rear wiper and washer.

Not only does the diesel version get a more powerful 185hp tune, it also gets a seven-seat configuration option at a premium of Rs 60,000 over the five-seat version. The AX3 also gets automatic options with both engines, in a five-seat configuration only.

AX5 variant

For Rs 1 lakh over the AX3, the AX5 adds a lot of premium features which make the stretch worthwhile. The money gets you a panoramic sunroof, driving modes, LED headlamps with sequential turn indicators, 17-inch diamond-cut alloys, cornering lamps and two additional airbags (curtain airbags). The diesel also gets ESP as part of the package.

Consistently, the seven-seat option is available at a premium of Rs 60,000 over the five-seater version, and while you could get a seven-seater with either the manual or automatic diesel, this option is only available with the petrol manual version.

AX7 variant

For an additional Rs 2 lakh over the AX5 seven-seater versions, you get the AX7, which is only available as a seven-seater. The money gets you advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, high beam assist, traffic sign recognition, front collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist and smart pilot assist, among others. It also features side airbags, ESP, 18-inch alloys, an air purifier, 6-way electric driver’s seat adjustment with memory, dual-zone climate control, push-button start, auto headlamps and wipers, reverse camera, ergo lever on co-driver’s seat, tyre pressure monitor, leatherette seats and door trims, leather steering and gear lever. Many of these are segment firsts, but because these are heavily dependent on technology and sensors, it commands a huge price premium over the AX5, which might not seem as attractively as some other variants.

For Rs 1.30 lakh over the diesel-automatic, buyers can also opt for the all-wheel drive (AWD) with this variant, making it the only car in this segment to be offered with this option.

The Luxury pack is available at a markup of Rs 1.60 lakh with either engine, transmission options (not with AWD) and for the money it gets a driver’s knee airbag, 360-degree surround-view camera, blind view monitor, wireless charging, dash camera, a 12 speaker Sony audio system, keyless entry, illuminated vanity mirrors, an electronic parking brake and electric smart door handles.

Which is the most value for money XUV700 variant?

For those on a budget, the AX3 variant is worth looking at particularly due to the twin screen setup which ups its cabin’s upmarket look and feel, as well as some crucial features which make it an attractive option. With a more flexible budget, the AX5 is the one to pick, as it offers almost all the premium features which buyers are looking for, yet retains its value proposition.

Also read:

Mahindra XUV700 first drive, review

Mahindra XUV700 delivery and booking details