XUV700 Owner Drives Innova HyCross – Impressed or Not?
As an automotive journalist, there’s something thrilling about experiencing different vehicles back to back. Recently, I had the opportunity to ride with a proud owner of a Mahindra XUV700 – a popular choice among Indian car buyers. And this time, the comparison was with the Toyota Innova HyCross, a name synonymous with reliability and family comfort. With comparisons always popping up on forums and in discussions among car enthusiasts, it was time to see if the XUV700 owner felt impressed or otherwise behind the wheel of the Innova HyCross.
First Impressions: Sophistication Meets Practicality
Stepping into the Innova HyCross, one quickly notices its premium vibe. The interior is plush, boasting high-quality materials and an overall feeling of sophistication. With ample storage spaces and clever design elements, there’s no doubt that Toyota aimed for family-oriented functionality. My co-driver, let’s call him Raj, commented on the spaciousness: “It feels like a living room on wheels!" Coming from the XUV700, which already impressed him with its generous cabin space, Raj still found comfort in the HyCross’s thoughtful layout.
The driving position in the HyCross is commanding. It gives the pilot an excellent view of the road ahead, a feature many SUV and MPV buyers covet. However, Raj was quick to mention that the Mahindra XUV700 offers something similar, combined with a more modern cabin feel and advanced tech features.
Driving Dynamics: Quiet and Composed vs. Engaging and Responsive
As we hit the road, the Innova HyCross showcased its strengths in terms of ride comfort. The suspension seems carefully tuned for Indian roads; potholes and rough patches are absorbed rather effortlessly. Raj noted this, saying, “You really feel like you’re cruising!” This is an area where the Innova has traditionally excelled.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The drive felt a bit detached compared to the XUV700, which offers more engaged steering and a sportier character. Raj recalled a recent family trip in his Mahindra, where he enjoyed agile handling on hilly terrains. The XUV700’s smart adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping features definitely give it an edge for more active driving enthusiasts.
Tech and Features: Modern Marvels vs. Tried and Tested
When it comes to tech, both vehicles have their strengths. The Mahindra XUV700 is well-known for its impressive feature set, including a massive infotainment system, connected car technology, and a vibrant digital display. It’s worth mentioning that the owner had a few concerns regarding the XUV700’s tech glitches. The phrase “2025 problems” popped up often during our talk, where issues related to infotainment responsiveness and buggy features were concerning to him after owning it for over a year.
In contrast, the Innova HyCross, while not quite as flashy, brings a reliable infotainment system to the table that may seem less advanced but work perfectly without the hiccups we’ve been reading about. Raj commented humorously, “Maybe I’ll trade tech for peace of mind!”
Pricing and Value: Sizing Up the Investments
Price is where this comparison takes a critical turn. The XUV700 starts at a very competitive range, providing a multitude of features for the money. The model Raj drives is the AX7 with an optional pack, priced around ₹24 lakh. In contrast, the Toyota Innova HyCross, being a premium offering, can easily cross the ₹30 lakh mark. “You’re paying for the brand reliability and resale value,” Raj noticed, justifying the pricing difference.
It’s essential for prospective buyers to weigh what they value most in their vehicle. If cutting-edge tech and a modern design are priorities, the XUV700 is hard to beat. But if proven space, comfort, and brand reputation are what you’re after, the Innova opens its arms for all families.
Final Thoughts: A Matter of Preference
After our drive, Raj wasn’t completely swayed to switch from his beloved Mahindra XUV700 to the Innova HyCross. While he appreciated the HyCross’s comfort and practicality, he found that the engaging drive and tech features of the XUV700 matched his lifestyle preferences better.
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for an MPV that feels more luxurious and spacious, the Innova HyCross can easily make an impression. But if you’re looking for a compact SUV that delivers on technology, engagement, and great value—consider the Mahindra XUV700. As always, it’s about aligning your choice with your needs, driving style, and family requirements.
Whether you’re an XUV700 owner or contemplating a shift, understand that it’s all about finding the perfect blend for you. Happy driving!
Utsav is an automobile enthusiast and auto news writer with 2+ years of experience in the Indian car industry. He has covered major launches, done detailed car reviews, and follows trends in the EV segment.