Mahindra has officially announced that the much-anticipated facelift of its popular XUV700 will be named the Mahindra XUV 7XO, with its global premiere scheduled for January 5, 2026. Slotted to remain the brand’s flagship internal combustion engine (ICE) SUV, the 7XO follows the naming strategy introduced earlier with the XUV300 facelift, the XUV 3XO.
The announcement came with a set of revealing teasers, giving us our first clear look at the SUV’s updated design language. The visuals confirm that the XUV 7XO will carry forward the design philosophy recently seen in Mahindra’s electric XEV 9S, but with its own distinct identity.
A Fresh Face with Familiar Roots
The teaser highlights signature 7-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) that elegantly frame the main headlamp cluster, which houses trapezoidal LED units. At the rear, the tail-lamps feature a similarly evolved design, drawing inspiration from the XEV 9S but with unique detailing. Up front, the SUV sports a revised version of Mahindra’s classic slatted grille, asserting a bolder presence. While these elements are new, spy shots have previously indicated that the overall silhouette and sheet metal will remain largely faithful to the well-known profile of the current XUV700, suggesting a comprehensive update rather than a complete redesign.
What to Expect Inside and Under the Hood
Although Mahindra is keeping full interior details under wraps for now, industry expectations are high. The XUV 7XO is likely to adopt a sophisticated, tech-forward cabin, potentially featuring a triple-screen dashboard setup akin to the ones in the XEV 9e and 9S models. This would mark a significant leap in cabin modernity. Seat configuration will probably continue to offer versatility, with 6- and 7-seat layouts expected. The availability of a 5-seat variant remains uncertain.
Powertrain options are anticipated to be carried over, meaning the XUV 7XO should offer the proven 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines. Both units are expected to be paired with 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions, with the diesel variant likely retaining the optional all-wheel-drive system.
Positioning and Market Rivalry
Upon launch, the XUV 7XO will squarely re-enter the competitive arena of three-row SUVs, locking horns with established rivals like the Tata Safari (including its upcoming petrol variant), the MG Hector, and the Hyundai Alcazar. Given the substantial updates, especially in design and anticipated interior technology, the XUV 7XO is expected to command a slight premium over the current XUV700, which is priced between Rs 13.66 lakh and Rs 23.71 lakh (ex-showroom).
With its debut just over a year away, the XUV 7XO is poised to strengthen Mahindra’s dominance in the ICE SUV segment, blending a refreshed, tech-inspired exterior with the proven mechanical prowess that has made the XUV700 a bestseller.
