Mahindra has started 2026 with a bang with a new SUV. No noise. No teasers. A full reveal. The brand has officially launched the Mahindra XUV 7XO, a new version of what we previously knew as the XUV700. This is not just a cosmetic tweak or a name change. The XUV 7XO comes with visible design changes, a heavily updated cabin, and serious tech upgrades.
The new XUV 7XO is priced starting at Rs. 13.66 lakh (ex-showroom), making it Mahindra’s first major product launch of the year. Let’s take a detailed first look and understand what has actually changed, what remains familiar, and where Mahindra has raised the bar.
Mahindra XUV 7XO: What’s new for 2026?
The biggest change is immediately apparent. The XUV700 will now be called the XUV 7XO, and with the new name comes a new identity. Mahindra has focused on design, cabin technology and features rather than reinventing the mechanics.
This approach makes sense. The outgoing model already had strong fundamentals. Rather than fixing what wasn’t broken, Mahindra has chosen to improve on what buyers already love.
Front design
The front of the Mahindra XUV 7XO looks significantly different. The SUV now adopts a new grille design with a multi-layered slit pattern. Vertical slats, horizontal elements and chrome detailing come together to create a more premium face.
The Mahindra logo sits confidently at the center, but the real attention-grabber is the lighting.
New LED headlamps and DRLs
The XUV 7XO now comes with full LED headlamps and a new C-shaped DRL signature. The design looks modern without being overly aggressive. It adds character while keeping the SUV’s strong stance intact.
The updated bumper gets black and chrome accents, LED fog lamps and a silver bumper lip. The overall effect looks premium and purposeful rather than flashy.
Side profile: Fresh details with familiar shapes
From the side of the SUV, the silhouette remains familiar. Mahindra hasn’t changed the proportions, which is a good thing.
New 18-inch alloy wheels
The SUV now rides on new 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels with a dual-tone finish. They look sharp and suit the vehicle’s size well.
Flush-fitted door handles with an auto pop-out function are also found, reinforcing the modern look. Subtle chrome and piano black elements are seen on the ORVMs with a dual-tone pattern.
While body-coloured elements could have enhanced the look further, the current setup still looks relevant.
Rear design: Clean execution with subtle updates
At the rear, Mahindra has opted for evolution over revolution. The layout remains familiar, but the details get new.
Updated LED Tail Lamps
The XUV 7XO gets a new LED signature for the tail lamps. These are not connected tail lamps, so if you were expecting a full-width light bar, that’s not on offer here. Still, the design looks clean and premium.
The XUV 7XO lettering is prominently displayed on the tailgate, with the top variant getting AX7L badging.
One thing remains the same. There’s no power tailgate. You’ll still have to open it manually. The boot space figures also remain the same.
ADAS and Camera Tech
This is where Mahindra clearly flexes its tech prowess.
The XUV 7XO is offered with Level 2 ADAS, which is supported by radar-based technology and an updated camera system. Instead of the traditional 360-degree camera, the SUV now offers a 540-degree camera setup, which also includes an underbody view.
This system significantly improves visibility, especially in tight spaces or rough terrain. It’s a meaningful upgrade, not just a brochure feature.
Interior: Completely revised cabin layout
As soon as you step inside the cabin, the changes are obvious.
Mahindra has redesigned the cabin with a coffee brown and beige dual-tone theme. The materials look richer, and the contrast stitching adds visual depth. Soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard further improve the perceived quality.
Ventilated seats for more passengers
Seat ventilation is now available not only for the front seats but also for two passengers in the second row. This feature alone offers a lot of comfort for Indian conditions.
Coast-to-coast triple display setup
The biggest highlight inside the Mahindra XUV 7XO is the three-screen, coast-to-coast display layout.
This setup, which was first seen on Mahindra’s large SUV, now comes standard across all variants.
- Driver display for vehicle information
- Central touchscreen as the main command center
- Passenger-side display for entertainment
Yes, this setup will be available in the base variant as well. It’s a big step.
Entertainment and Connected Tech
The passenger display is not just for show. It supports several streaming apps including Prime Video, Hotstar, YouTube, Sun NXT and more.
The audio experience is also improved thanks to Dolby Atmos support.
ChatGPT Integration with Alexa
Mahindra now also offers ChatGPT integration by working in collaboration with Alexa. You can use voice commands for various tasks, which makes interactions more natural and easy.
This feature positions the XUV 7XO as one of the more tech-forward SUVs in its segment.
Ambient Lighting: Dual-Zone Setup
The cabin also features dual ambient lighting. The upper and lower sections can display different colors, and the front and back rows can have different lighting themes.
Is it necessary? No.
Is it fun? Absolutely.
Buyers who enjoy cabin personalization will appreciate this touch.
Comfortable features
The XUV 7XO offers powered seats for both the driver and co-driver, which is still a rarity in this segment.
You also get:
- Electronic parking brake with auto-hold
- Drive mode selection
- Capacitive controls for specific functions
While capacitive buttons look modern, they may not appeal to everyone. Some drivers still prefer physical controls for better tactile feedback.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
This update deserves a special mention.
Mahindra has confirmed that wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be available on all variants from day one. No OTA waiting. No delays.
This directly addresses one of the biggest complaints of previous Mahindra buyers.
Second Row: Feature-packed and comfortable
The second row continues to impress. And in it you get:
- Rear seat ventilation
- Manual sun blinds
- Mount for additional entertainment screen
- 65W Type-C USB charging port
- Harman Kardon surround sound system
The Boss Mode feature allows rear passengers to electronically adjust the front passenger seat, which adds to the luxurious feel.
A panoramic sunroof completes the experience.
One missing element is the rear blower controls, which would have made the setup even better.
Third row: Practical, not plush
The Mahindra XUV 7XO is available in six-seat and seven-seat configurations.
The third row offers:
- Individual AC vents with blower control
- Cup holders
- 12V charging socket
Space and comfort remain the same as the outgoing model. There is limited support under the thighs, making it best for children or short journeys.
The third row still lacks a USB port.
Engine options
Under the hood, the XUV 7XO retains the same engines:
- 2.0-litre turbo-petrol
- 2.2-litre diesel
Both engines come with manual and automatic transmission options. At the time of launch, Mahindra has announced prices only for the manual variants. Automatic prices will be announced later.
Mahindra XUV 7XO Price Details (Initial)
Base Variant (Manual): Rs. 13.66 lakh
Top-of-the-line AX7L Manual Diesel: Rs. 22.47 lakh
These are the initial ex-showroom prices, applicable for the first 40,000 customers.
Final Thoughts: Is the XUV 7XO a meaningful upgrade?
The 2026 Mahindra XUV 7XO doesn’t try to shock you. Instead, it impresses you gradually.
Mahindra has focused on:
- Better design
- Stronger technology
- Improved cabin experience
- Without overcomplicating the formula.
The triple-screen layout, ADAS upgrades, ChatGPT integration, ventilated second-row seats, and wireless smartphone connectivity all add real value.
This feels like a well-thought-out evolution, not a hastily-made facelift.
If you value technology, comfort, and road presence, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is clearly one to look out for in 2026.
Pros and Cons: 2026 Mahindra XUV 7XO
✅ Pros
- Fresh exterior design with new LED headlamps and C-shaped DRLs
- Triple-screen head-up display offered as standard across all variants
- Level 2 ADAS with 540° camera system, including underbody view
- Ventilated seats for front and second-row passengers
- ChatGPT integration with Alexa adds next-gen voice control
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay from day one
- Powered front seats and Boss Mode enhance comfort
- Strong petrol and diesel engine options with manual and automatic choices
- Introductory price makes the package more competitive
❌ Cons
- No power tailgate even on the top AX7L variant
- Second-row rear Blower controls are missing
- Third-row comfort is limited for adults on long journeys
- No USB charging port in the third row
- Capacitive buttons may not suit everyone due to lack of tactile feedback
- Prices for the automatic variant have not been announced yet
Source : Mahindra official, carandbike
