The Mahindra XUV700, which is among the most popular three-row SUVs in India, is preparing to be updated with a mid-life refresh. An extremely disguised test mule has just been seen, and what was most interesting about this one was that there was no exhaust tip at all-possibly suggesting the possibility of an electric derivative in the offing.
What’s Changing on the Outside
Spy photos indicate that the facelifted XUV700 will be given a sharper design treatment. Changes are a multi-slat front grille, dual-pod LED headlamps, and reformed front and rear bumpers. There is also a revised front air dam and a new set of alloys that make the SUV have a fresher stance.
Even though Mahindra is expected to maintain the huge road presence of the XUV700, the alterations imply a shift in the design towards a more current and electric vehicle-capable design.
Interior Upgrades Expected
Within, Mahindra is likely to come up with more than cosmetic changes. The updated SUV can introduce a tri-cluster display, a feature that is growing in high-end SUVs. It is also argued that ventilated seats in the second row and introduction of a captain-seat layout have been added to accommodate the family and buyers who seek more comfort. These updates would position the XUV700 more competitively against rivals in the segment.
EV Version in the Pipeline
According to the recent product strategy of Mahindra, there is a staged approach. It is projected that the internal combustion engine (ICE) version will be launched, and then a separate EV derivative will be launched by the company.
Since the test mule has not been equipped with an exhaust system, it can be assumed that Mahindra will be testing elements or prototypes associated with the electric version with the facelift.
Launch Timeline
The facelift XUV700 is likely to launch in the first quarter of 2026. Mahindra can use its traditional rollout strategy and the ICE models will be available in showrooms first, with the XUV700 EV possibly coming in later the same year.
The update in the future is an expression of Mahindra having dual focus, ensuring that its flagship SUV remains competitive in the ICE space and readying it for the electric future.
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