XUV700: what every buyer should know before taking a test drive

The XUV700 made a big splash when Mahindra launched it. It packs strong engines, lots of tech and advanced safety features you rarely get in this price band. If you're considering one, know what matters: engine choice, ADAS and feature availability, real running costs, and the trim that gives the most value.

Engine, drive and practical performance

The XUV700 comes with petrol and diesel engine options that suit two different types of buyers. If you do mostly city running and want a smoother, quieter car, the turbo petrol is a good pick. If you drive long distances or need better fuel economy and torque for highways, diesel makes more sense. Higher trims often offer automatic gearboxes and all-wheel-drive or advanced driving modes — these add comfort but also raise price and running costs.

When you test drive, check low-end pull (important for city starts and overtakes), turbo lag, and how the gearbox behaves in stop-and-go traffic. Try highway runs to feel stability at 80–120 km/h and listen for wind or tyre noise — cabin quietness varies by tyre choice and trim.

Features, ADAS and safety — what to prioritise

One big selling point of the XUV700 is its tech: a large touchscreen, digital driver’s display, connected car features and Level 2 driver assistance on higher trims. Adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking can make long drives less tiring. But remember: ADAS functions are often limited to top trims, so factor that into your budget if those features matter to you.

Buyers who care about safety should lean toward the variants with full ADAS and multiple airbags. Also check for a proper 360-degree camera, tyre-pressure monitoring, and ISOFIX anchors if you have kids. Look up the car’s crash-test rating and ask the dealer about recent software updates that improve ADAS reliability.

For everyday ownership, ask about service schedules, warranty cover and the availability of authorised service centres in your city. Tesing the service centre experience before you decide can save time later.

Common owner tips: choose a mid-to-high trim if you want long-term resale value and better features; pick diesel only if you cover high yearly kilometres; budget for tyres, insurance and occasional software updates. On the day of delivery, verify all software features work and request a walkthrough of connected services.

Want quick next steps? Book a test drive that includes city and highway stretches, compare running-cost estimates for petrol vs diesel based on your yearly kilometers, and prioritise safety features over cosmetic extras when deciding trims. If you need more detailed comparisons or live updates on offers, check local listings and dealer stock before you visit.