Words: Kyle Cassidy
Published 6 January 2026
Mahindra has revealed the 2026 XUV 7XO in India ahead of an expected arrival in NZ later this year. It introduces a new name and a series of styling and technology upgrades for the current XUV700.
The update represents a mid-cycle refresh rather than an all-new model, but Mahindra says the changes come without a price increase in its home market. In India, the XUV 7XO launches at the same entry price as the outgoing XUV700. Local pricing and specifications are yet to be confirmed.
The new name follows Mahindra’s revised naming strategy, first seen with the XUV 3XO small SUV.
The current XUV700 is one of NZ’s more affordable medium-sized SUVs, the AX5 starting at $39,990.
Visually, the XUV 7XO adopts a sharper, more modern look inspired by Mahindra’s electric models, which are not yet available locally. The front end features new ‘boomerang’ LED daytime running lights, a redesigned grille and bumper, while the flush-fitting ‘smart’ door handles carry over from the existing XUV700.
Changes continue along the sides and rear, with a resculpted profile, redesigned rear bumper and updated LED tail-lights. New 19-inch alloy wheels and an expanded colour palette round out the exterior updates. Despite the fresh look, the XUV 7XO retains the same overall dimensions and mechanical package as its predecessor.
Inside, the upgrades are more substantial. All variants now feature a ‘coast-to-coast’ digital display stretching across the dashboard, replacing the previous 10.25-inch screens and reducing the number of physical buttons.
Technology additions include a 540-degree camera system as part of the Advanced Driver Assist Systems suite, wireless phone charging, and Alexa Built-in functionality with ChatGPT artificial intelligence. A new two-spoke steering wheel also features, while higher-grade models gain a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, up from 12 speakers previously.
Under the skin, the key change is the introduction of Mahindra’s ‘DaVinci’ adaptive suspension damping system, which continues to use a five-link independent rear suspension layout.
The XUV700 currently uses a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 149kW and 380Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
