The Indian automotive landscape is abuzz with excitement as Mahindra & Mahindra, one of the country’s leading SUV manufacturers, has officially teased the facelifted version of its flagship XUV700. Spotted undergoing rigorous testing earlier this week, the revamped XUV700 promises a striking redesign, advanced technology, and whispers of a potential hybrid powertrain, setting the stage for a 2026 launch. This mid-cycle refresh aims to keep the XUV700 competitive in a crowded segment while reinforcing Mahindra’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
A Bolder, More Aggressive Design
The Mahindra XUV700 facelift has been caught on camera sporting a dramatically reworked exterior. The most noticeable change is at the front, where the SUV adopts a bolder fascia. Gone are the sleek, angular headlights of the current model, replaced by distinctive round LED headlamps that lend a retro-modern charm. These are paired with a redesigned grille featuring vertical slats, reminiscent of Mahindra’s rugged Thar, which enhances the SUV’s commanding presence.
The front bumper has been sculpted anew, with sharper lines and larger air intakes, giving the XUV700 a more muscular stance. Spy shots also reveal updated fog lamp housings and subtle chrome accents that add a touch of premium flair. Along the sides, the facelift introduces fresh alloy wheel designs—likely ranging from 17 to 19 inches—sporting intricate patterns that complement the vehicle’s dynamic profile. At the rear, expect revised taillights with a new LED signature, along with a tweaked bumper and a more pronounced skid plate for a rugged appeal.
Mahindra appears to be drawing inspiration from its upcoming electric SUV lineup, particularly the XEV 9e, to create a cohesive design language across its portfolio. The XUV700 facelift’s aesthetic strikes a balance between sophistication and toughness, appealing to both urban buyers and adventure enthusiasts.
Interior Upgrades: A Tech-Laden Cabin
While interior details remain under wraps, industry insiders anticipate significant upgrades to the XUV700’s already feature-rich cabin. The current model is lauded for its spaciousness and premium materials, and the facelift is expected to raise the stakes further. A larger, tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system—potentially a 12.3-inch unit—could anchor the dashboard, running Mahindra’s latest Adrenox software with faster processing and enhanced connectivity.
The instrument cluster is likely to be a fully digital display, offering crisper graphics and customizable layouts. Anticipated features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a premium sound system, and over-the-air (OTA) updates for seamless software enhancements. Mahindra may also introduce ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting with customizable colors to elevate the cabin’s luxury quotient.
Safety remains a cornerstone of the XUV700’s appeal, and the facelift is expected to build on its 5-star Global NCAP rating. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking could see refinements, with new additions such as a 360-degree camera and blind-spot monitoring. These enhancements aim to make the XUV700 one of the safest SUVs in its class.
Powertrain: Hybrid Rumors Swirl
The most tantalizing speculation surrounds the XUV700 facelift’s powertrain lineup. The current model offers a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol (200 bhp) and a 2.2-liter diesel (185 bhp), available with manual or automatic transmissions and optional all-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive configurations. While these engines are likely to carry over with minor tweaks for efficiency and emissions, Mahindra is rumored to be exploring electrification for the first time in the XUV700.
Recent reports suggest a mild-hybrid variant could debut, integrating a 48V system to boost fuel economy and provide a torque assist function for smoother acceleration. This move would position the XUV700 as a direct rival to hybrid offerings from competitors like Toyota and Hyundai. Additionally, there’s chatter about a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) option, though this remains unconfirmed. Such a variant could combine the petrol engine with an electric motor, offering a limited electric-only range for city commutes while retaining the SUV’s long-distance prowess.
Mahindra’s push toward hybridization aligns with India’s stricter emission norms and growing consumer demand for eco-friendly vehicles. The company’s expertise in electric mobility, showcased through its Born Electric platform, could pave the way for a seamless integration of hybrid tech into the XUV700.
Market Positioning and Competition
The Mahindra XUV700 facelift is poised to take on heavyweights like the Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, and MG Hector in the mid-size SUV segment. Its bold design, tech-heavy interior, and potential hybrid powertrain could give it an edge in a market where buyers prioritize value, performance, and modernity. Priced competitively, the current XUV700 ranges from ₹14 lakh to ₹26 lakh (ex-showroom), and the facelift is expected to command a slight premium due to its enhanced features.
Mahindra’s focus on localization and economies of scale will likely keep pricing accessible, ensuring the XUV700 remains a compelling choice for families and enthusiasts alike. The anticipated 2026 launch timeline suggests Mahindra is taking its time to perfect the facelift, possibly aligning it with the debut of other models in its lineup.
What Lies Ahead
The Mahindra XUV700 facelift is shaping up to be a game-changer, blending rugged charm with cutting-edge technology and a nod to sustainability. As test mules continue to hit the roads, excitement is building for what could be one of India’s most anticipated SUV launches of 2026. Whether it’s the striking new look, the promise of a tech-laden cabin, or the prospect of a hybrid powertrain, the XUV700 facelift is ready to redefine expectations in the fiercely competitive SUV market.
Stay tuned for more updates as Mahindra peels back the camouflage and reveals the full glory of its flagship SUV.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 7:10 pm by Shashivardhan Reddy | Published by: Shashivardhan Reddy on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 3:19 pm | News Categories: Automobile
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