Mahindra seems all prepped up for the launch of the all-new XUV700. The SUV recently got a dedicated website which suggests us the launch could be just weeks ahead. Although, Hyundai’s Alcazar recently got delayed because of the pandemic so we are not sure if the XUV700’s launch is THAT close.
Anyway, the website is already live and is currently allowing visitors to sign up for the latest updates. The 6/7-seater SUV has will be the production version of its W601 project which was earlier speculated as the next-gen XUV500. But during last month during an interview with Powedrift, Veejay Nakra, CEO, Automotive Division, Mahindra, confirmed that the W601 platform based vehicle will actually be Mahindra XUV700 and will be launched in the third quarter of 2021.
The XUV700 will be sharing the same design language seen on XUV500 but in terms of dimensions and space, it will be having an upper hand over the XUV500. Talking about the engine, it will be carried over from its other sibling, The Thar which will be tuned to provide a better power output. It has been confirmed that it will be offered with petrol as well as a diesel engine with manual and automatic transmission choices. The top-end variants will be equipped with an all-wheel-drive system as an option. However, the exact engine specs are still unconfirmed by the automaker.
On the inside, the XUV700 will come with dual-tone (Black and Beige) interior featuring leather upholstery as seen in the recent spy shots. Those images have also revealed a new multifunctional flat-bottom steering wheel along with a panoramic sunroof. In terms of seat arrangement, the SUV will be offered in 6- as well as 7- seater options. The 6 seat model will get the captain seats while on the latter it’ll be a bench seat.
Making its way to the new SUV is the Mercedes-Benz-inspired dual-screen touch-controlled infotainment system setup complimented with a fully digital instrument console, wireless connectivity, dual-zone climate control, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, ventilated front seats, keyless entry with push-button start/stop, electronic parking brake with auto hold and a large centre armrest upfront. The cabin has a very minimalistic use of physical buttons and got a lot of touch-sensitive buttons to match the modern & futuristic aesthetics of the cabin.
The SUV will be sitting above the XUV500. However, the production of the ongoing XUV500 is likely to take a temporary break post the launch of the XUV700. If speculations are to be believed, the XUV500 could be re-introduced as a five-seat SUV that will be based on the XUV700.
Mahindra XUV700 will be manufactured at the carmakers Chakan facility in Maharashtra and will come with world class safety features. Once launched the Mahindra XUV700 will go head to head with the like of Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus.
