XUV700: My Honest Ownership Experience at 30,000 KMS – Is It Right for You?
When I first laid eyes on the Mahindra XUV700, I thought, "Wow, this could be the game changer we’ve been waiting for in the Indian SUV market." Fast forward to now, and after cruising through a solid 30,000 kilometers, I’m here to share my honest experience. If you’re considering this mammoth of a vehicle, buckle up; this ride is packed with insights, both good and bad.
First Impressions: The Allure of the XUV700
The XUV700 is undeniably a head-turner. With its bold stance, sleek lines, and an imposing front grille, it demands attention on Indian roads. But beauty isn’t just skin deep. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a plush interior that rivals some premium brands. The 10.25-inch infotainment system coupled with a digital instrument cluster gives it a modern edge, making long drives feel less like a chore and more like an experience.
However, let’s get to the nuts and bolts. The bottom line is, you want a vehicle that’s reliable and capable. With that in mind, here’s how the XUV700 has fared at the 30,000 km mark.
Performance: Powering Through the Miles
Under the hood, my XUV700 is powered by the 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine. The 155 bhp it churns out is enough to make you feel like you’re gliding over the city streets. Whether it’s highway cruising or tackling uneven terrains, the performance has been nothing short of impressive.
Yet, here’s an essential point: the gearbox can feel a bit clunky, especially while downshifting. If you switch between the automatic and manual modes often, expect a slight learning curve.
Buyer Advice: Opt for the manual transmission if you’re someone who enjoys having control. The automatic is convenient but might leave you wishing for smoother shifts.
Comfort & Convenience: Room for Improvement
The interiors scream comfort, but there’s a caveat. The seating is spacious, making it perfect for long drives with family or friends. However, I did notice that the seat cushions could feel a bit firm during extended journeys. An additional cushion might do the trick for those marathon drives to hill stations or beach getaways.
The air conditioning system is powerful enough to tackle the sweltering Indian heat, but make sure you don’t keep it on the lowest setting for too long — it can get a bit too frosty!
Tech-Savvy Features: A Double-Edged Sword
On the tech front, the XUV700 boasts features that would make any gadget lover swoon. The connected car tech, which allows you to control various functions via an app, is a must-have. However, my experience wasn’t without hiccups. The app occasionally disconnects, leaving you fumbling to synchronize settings.
Real-World Example: During a family road trip, I found myself unable to adjust the climate control via the app, which led to a few disgruntled passengers. So, while it’s a great feature, don’t rely solely on it.
Fuel Efficiency: The Verdict
Mahindra claims a mileage of around 16 km/l for the diesel variant, but in real-world conditions, I’ve been averaging about 14 km/l in mixed driving conditions. Not the best in class, but it certainly isn’t the worst. For a vehicle of this size and power, I’d say it’s a fair trade-off.
Safety: You Want Peace of Mind
One aspect I’ve been particularly impressed with is the safety features. With multiple airbags, ABS, and a five-star GNCAP rating, I feel secure driving around with my family. The 360-degree camera and advanced driver assistance systems are also noteworthy, making parking and maneuvering a breeze.
Problems Encountered: Let’s Get Honest
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room — the problems. Despite being a great vehicle, my XUV700 has faced its share of issues. The infotainment system has occasionally frozen, requiring a hard reboot. In addition, there was a minor oil leak that cropped up around the 22,000 km mark, which took a day at the service center to resolve.
Pros and Cons Recap:
Pros:
- Striking design and plush interiors
- Powerful and capable engine
- Advanced safety features
- Impressive tech connectivity
Cons:
- Clunky gearbox
- Occasional tech hiccups
- Firm seat cushions
- Minor quality control issues
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the XUV700?
If you’re in the market for an SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, and tech, the Mahindra XUV700 could very well be your next car. Sure, it’s not without its flaws, but every car has its quirks. As someone who has experienced its highs and lows, I can say it has brought joy, adventure, and a bit of worry into my life, too.
Price-wise, it positions itself quite competitively against rivals like the Tata Safari and the Hyundai Alcazar, making it a reasonable choice for your hard-earned money. If you can overlook some minor issues and focus on what it does right, I believe the XUV700 is definitely worth a test drive.
So, before you make that plunge, take a closer look, compare, and ultimately decide if this beauty aligns with your needs. Happy car hunting!

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.