The Mahindra’s new SUV, the XUV 700, entered the South African market at the end of 2022. Let’s find out what it’s like.1,2
The Mahindra Brand – Up and Away
The Mahindra brand has come a long way from the ordinary Mahindra SUV range of several years ago to modern, well-fitted family cars. Perhaps Mahindra’s new logo is an indication of a new chapter. In 2022, it became the Car of the Year in India and clinched the Global NCAP’s Safer Choice Award.1,2
The Mahindra’s New Range
The entry model to this new range is a 5-seater, while the middle and top derivatives are 7-seaters. You can lower the third-row seats for extra space, but if occupied, luggage space can be limited. 1
The Exterior of the Mahindra XUV700
The attractive SUV has bright daytime running lights, wrap-around taillights, pleasant LED indicators, and striking wheels. 1
What’s the Interior Like?
The quality of the Mahindra’s interior has improved dramatically, departing from the earlier plastic-like fittings. When inside, you become aware of the interior’s solid structure. The 2.0T AX7 L has wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto connectivity and striking digital displays. The two USB ports and the wireless charging pad for cell phones are most useful. 1
The Mahindra’s XUV700 Powertrain
A new 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine connects to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain’s outputs peak at 149 kW power and 380 Nm torque, producing amazing performance. Acceleration for overtaking is powerful and fast, as shown by the 9.28 seconds it takes to do the 0-100 km/hour test. The powertrain is pleasantly quiet when cruising on the freeway. 1
What Is Its Fuel Consumption?
The trip computer displayed 10.2 litres/100 km at the start of the test drive, but ended at 8.2 litres/100 km. The slightly heavy fuel consumption is due to both the SUV’s powerful performance and its weight of 1960 kg. Unfortunately, no diesel derivative is currently available. 1
Comfortable Handling
Any driver or passenger travelling in this SUV will become immediately aware of its comfort. High-quality, neatly trimmed seats add to this enjoyment. A noticeable quirk is the light and indirect steering, which may be a useful feature when parking. 1
The Mahindra XUV700’s Space
Space and comfort are what families look for when going on a long trip. Certainly, the 5-seater XUV700 meets this need by offering adequate luggage space. For more space, the second-row seats can fold down if there are no extra passengers. 1
How Safe Is the Mahindra XUV700?
The AX7 L has 360-degree cameras and safety equipment such as a blind-spot monitor, a knee airbag, and ‘stop & go’ functionality for adaptive cruise control. In addition, there are seven airbags, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, and tyre pressure sensors. Mahindra claims an amazing Level 1 autonomy. 1
The Price of the Mahindra XUV700
As of January 2023, the XUV 700’s selling price starts from R474,999 and ends at R599,999 for the top model. 1
Disclaimer
This article reviews the Mahindra XUV 700 for sale in South Africa in 2023. 1,2
You are legally required to buy comprehensive car insurance if you buy a new Mahindra XUV 700 with bank finance. Contact us at PMD for more information and experience our world-class client service. Find out more about our affordable car insurance products with their unique benefits, such as fixed premiums* and reducing excess*. T’s and C’s apply.
If you want to purchase the correct financial services product, first obtain professional advice from a certified financial advisor.
Sources:
1https://www.cars.co.za/motoring-news/mahindra-xuv700-review-living-with-it/140446/
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.