Designed as a trendsetter, the XUV 7XO shows Mahindra’s aim to make advanced technology affordable. Even the base AX variant comes packed with features usually seen only in higher segments.
By T. Murrali
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. unveiled the XUV 7XO, its latest flagship SUV, positioning it as the next big leap after the blockbuster XUV700. Priced from ₹13.66 lakh (ex-showroom), the XUV 7XO builds on the strong legacy of the XUV700, which has garnered over three lakh customers since its launch in 2021, while pushing the boundaries of technology, comfort and sophistication in the premium SUV space.
Conceived as a trendsetter, the XUV 7XO indicates Mahindra’s aim of democratising advanced technology. Even the entry-level AX variant is loaded with features that were once the preserve of higher segments. From the coast-to-coast 31.24 cm triple HD screens and Intelligent ADRENOX system to wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Alexa built-in with ChatGPT, cruise control, push-button start and 75 standard safety features, the SUV is designed to make a strong case for value-led innovation right from the base trim.
The XUV 7XO range spans multiple variants and seating configurations, offering both petrol and diesel options, along with manual and automatic transmissions. Introductory prices for the first 40,000 customer deliveries start at ₹13.66 lakh for the AX petrol and extend up to ₹24.11 lakh for the fully loaded AX7L diesel automatic with six seats. Automatic transmissions are offered at an additional ₹1.45 lakh, while the all-wheel-drive option, available on select diesel variants, comes at an extra ₹2.45 lakh. Deliveries of higher variants such as AX7, AX7T and AX7L will begin from January 14, 2026, starting with pre-booked customers, while AX, AX3 and AX5 variants will roll out from April 2026.
Design remains a strong pillar of the XUV 7XO story. The SUV carries an unmistakable road presence with an all-new full-width grille finished in high-gloss piano black and accented with jewel-like talon elements. Bi-LED projector headlamps with DRLs, diamond-inspired LED tail lamps, exposed ice-cube fog lamps, electric smart door handles and R19 diamond-cut alloy wheels reinforce its ‘tough-premium’ character. Inside, the cabin is designed to feel immersive and serene, blending plush materials, soft-touch leatherette surfaces and multi-zone ambient lighting with a futuristic digital layout.
Technology takes centre stage with what Mahindra calls a sci-fi experience. The triple-screen setup is complemented by a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system featuring Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, marking an India-first in an ICE SUV. A 540-degree surround camera with digital video recording, Level-2 ADAS with dynamic visualisation, frameless electrochromic IRVM, memory ORVMs with reverse tilt, approach unlock and walk-away lock further enhance everyday usability and safety.
Under the skin, the XUV 7XO makes a global debut with Mahindra’s DAVINCI suspension system, a new valve-based damping technology aimed at delivering a more plush and settled ride. The SUV is powered by the 2.0-litre mStallion TGDi petrol engine and the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel, with the latter also offering a first-in-segment all-wheel-drive option. Mahindra claims 0–60 kmph acceleration in under five seconds for the petrol manual, alongside multiple drive modes—Zip, Zap, Zoom and a custom setting—for tailored driving experiences.
Luxury and comfort have also been significantly elevated. The XUV 7XO offers powered front seats with memory and welcome functions, a 4-way boss mode for the co-driver, front and rear ventilated seats, high-density seat foam with plush pads, wireless chargers with active cooling for both rows, dual-zone climate control with quiet mode, acoustic solar windscreen and retractable rear sunshades. Features like BYOD theatre mode and an Intelli Command Centre further underline its premium positioning.
Safety continues to be a core focus, with over 120 safety features, including seven airbags with curtain protection up to the third row, Level-2 ADAS with 17 functions, driver drowsiness alert, electronic parking brake with auto hold, tyre pressure monitoring and auto-booster headlamps with high-beam assist. The SUV has been engineered to meet a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating.
Mr. R Velusamy, President, Automotive Business, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, The XUV 7XO represents a significant step forward in delivering a premium, technology-forward SUV that is smoother, smarter and sharper.” He highlighted the global debut of the DAVINCI suspension and the introduction of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155P chipset in an ICE vehicle in India as key differentiators.
Mr. Pratap Bose, Chief Design and Creative Officer, said the XUV 7XO was “crafted to be instantly recognisable yet unmistakably new, combining Mahindra’s authentic SUV character with refined sophistication.” He added that the design aims to reshape aspirations and set new standards across safety, performance and luxury.
Mr. Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO, Automotive Division, noted that while the “XUV700 created a new benchmark in India’s SUV market, the XUV 7XO takes that benchmark further.” He said the new model reflects Mahindra’s intent to stay ahead of evolving customer expectations and reinforce its leadership in the SUV segment.
With its unique design, modern technology, powerful engines, and strong focus on comfort and safety, the XUV 7XO shows Mahindra’s idea of what a future-ready Indian SUV should be—bold, smart and confident.
