Mahindra XUV 7XO: The XUV700 Facelift with Major Design & Feature Upgrades Expected in 2026

Mahindra is gearing up for one of its most important launches in the 7-seater SUV segment—the heavily updated Mahindra XUV 7XO, expected to be the facelifted version of the popular XUV700. A new trademark filing suggests that the brand will adopt the refreshed “XO” naming pattern, similar to the transformation of the XUV300 into the XUV 3XO earlier this year.

This upcoming facelift aims to keep Mahindra ahead in the premium SUV race, especially as competition intensifies with rivals like the Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus improving rapidly. Here’s everything we know—and expect—from the 2026 Mahindra XUV 7XO.

Bolder, Sharper Design Inspired by New Mahindra EVs

Spy images hint at a significantly refreshed exterior for the XUV 7XO. Mahindra appears to be updating the SUV with a more aggressive and futuristic design language, likely inspired by its new-age electric lineup.

Expected Exterior Changes:

• A completely redesigned front grille with bolder detailing
• Revised front bumper with sharper contours
• Updated LED headlamps and reworked C-shaped DRLs
• New, sportier alloy wheel designs
• Connected LED taillamps for a modern rear profile
• Redesigned rear bumper with a cleaner, more premium finish

These updates will help the XUV 7XO stand apart visually from the outgoing XUV700, giving it a more sophisticated road presence.

Premium Cabin Upgrades, New Screens & Advanced Features

Inside, Mahindra is expected to take a big leap toward a modern, tech-first cabin. Reports indicate that the new XUV 7XO could borrow interior inspiration from the XEV 9e, especially its multi-display dashboard layout.

Expected Interior Features:

• A triple-screen setup combining the instrument cluster, infotainment system, and a third passenger display
• Harman Kardon premium sound system
• Auto-dimming IRVM
• Wireless phone mirroring for rear passengers
• Updated upholstery and a more premium dashboard finish

These upgrades would elevate the in-cabin experience dramatically and position the XUV 7XO as a true modern family SUV.

Powertrain: Same Proven Engines, Improved Driving Experience

Mahindra is expected to retain the powerful and reliable engine lineup from the XUV700.

Engine Options Likely to Continue:

• 2.0L mStallion Turbo-Petrol
  • 197 BHP
  • 380 Nm torque
• 2.2L mHawk Diesel
  • 153 BHP & 360 Nm (MX variants)
  • 182 BHP & 450 Nm (higher variants)

The SUV will continue to offer:

• 6-speed manual gearbox
• 6-speed torque converter automatic
• AWD option on higher diesel variants

Since the powertrains are already strong performers, Mahindra may instead improve NVH levels and smoothness in the facelift.

Safety: More Airbags Expected for Entry Variants

The XUV700 is known for its 5-star Global NCAP rating and strong build quality. However, the lower variants currently offer only dual airbags—a point of criticism among safety-conscious buyers.

For the XUV 7XO, Mahindra is expected to:

• Provide six airbags as standard
• Retain Level-2 ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and autonomous emergency braking

This will make the SUV more appealing to families and budget buyers alike.

Also Read : 5 Upcoming Electric Cars: From Maruti Suzuki eVX To Kia’s Nexon EV-Rival, Tata Punch.ev, Maruti Suzuki eVX, Mahindra XUV3OO EV |CarsandTrucks

Launch Timeline & Expected Price in India

Mahindra is likely to launch the XUV 7XO in January 2026. Ahead of its introduction, buyers may see attractive discounts on the current XUV700 stock.

Expected Price (Ex-Showroom):

• ₹14 lakh to ₹26 lakh

This pricing places it directly against:

• Tata Safari
• MG Hector Plus
• Hyundai Alcazar

XUV 7XO vs XEV 9S: ICE vs EV Rivalry at the Same Price Point

While the XUV 7XO prepares for launch, Mahindra is also ready to unveil its third INGLO-platform EV—the XEV 9S—on November 27.

The XEV 9S is expected to be the electric counterpart to the XUV 7XO, featuring:

• 59 kWh & 79 kWh battery packs
• 500–700 km range
• Dual-motor AWD options
• Premium EV-specific design

Its pricing is expected to range from ₹24 lakh to ₹35 lakh, causing overlap with the top-end XUV 7XO variants.