Mahindra & Mahindra has announced a strategic shift in the variant offerings of its flagship SUV, the XUV700, by eliminating the 5-seater option and focusing exclusively on 6-seater and 7-seater configurations. This change is aimed at better aligning the product with customer demand and positioning the XUV700 as a more premium, family-oriented SUV in the Indian automobile market.
Since its launch, the XUV700 has received overwhelming response from buyers due to its bold design, powerful performance, and advanced features. However, the demand has largely skewed toward the larger seating configurations, prompting Mahindra to re-evaluate its portfolio. According to the company, customers increasingly prefer 6- and 7-seater models for added flexibility, especially for family use and intercity travel.
The new lineup will now offer captain seats in the second row for the 6-seater variant, enhancing individual comfort. The 7-seater model, with bench seating in the second row, will continue to appeal to larger families seeking practicality without compromising on features or ride quality.
The discontinuation of the 5-seater version is expected to optimize production and reduce complexity at Mahindra's manufacturing facilities. This will also help the company focus on high-demand variants and improve delivery timelines, which have been affected due to supply chain challenges in the recent past.
Key Features of Updated XUV700 Lineup:
Seating: 6-seater (2+2+2 with captain seats) and 7-seater (2+3+2 with bench seat)
Powertrain Options: 2.0L turbo-petrol and 2.2L diesel engines, paired with manual and automatic transmissions
Drive Options: Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive available on selected variants
Technology: AdrenoX infotainment system with dual 10.25-inch screens, Alexa integration, connected car features, and voice commands
Safety: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors
Mahindra’s spokesperson stated, “This move reflects our commitment to evolving with the Indian consumer. The XUV700 has always stood for premium space, performance, and technology, and now with only 6- and 7-seater variants, we are reinforcing its identity as a true family SUV.”
The company has also hinted at upcoming updates to the feature list and variant structure, potentially introducing new trims with enhanced equipment to meet the growing expectations in the segment.
Industry experts believe this decision will strengthen Mahindra’s position in the competitive mid-size SUV space, where consumer preferences are shifting toward more versatile and spacious vehicles. Rivals such as the Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and MG Hector Plus are also targeting similar audiences with multi-row seating options.
Deliveries of the revised lineup are expected to begin shortly, and customers can now configure and book their preferred variant through Mahindra’s official website and dealerships across India.
