India's new Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 rival! 2022 Mahindra XUV700 offers five- or seven-seat versatility to succeed ageing XUV500

Mahindra has revealed the all-new XUV700, with the mid-size SUV offering five- or seven-seat versatility to succeed the Indian brand’s ageing XUV500 and challenge the all-conquering Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.

The XUV700 is a big deal for Mahindra, with the mid-size SUV debuting the Indian brand’s latest design language, pop-out doorhandles included, as well as its new logo. That said, the connection between it and the XUV500 is made clear via the C-shaped front light clusters and pronounced rear haunches.

For reference, the XUV700 is based on Mahindra’s new W601 platform and measures 4695mm long (with a 2750mm wheelbase), 1890mm wide and 1755mm tall, putting it slightly on the larger side for a mid-size SUV.

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While the XUV700 is undoubtedly more modern than the XUV500 from the outside, it’s inside where it feels generations apart, mainly thanks to its two available 10.25-inch displays, with the central touchscreen and digital instrument cluster housed under a single glass panel.

But even in entry-level form, the XUV700 comes with an 8.0-inch central touchscreen and a 7.0-inch multifunction display, so it’s still contemporary, although only the larger set-up’s multimedia system comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and a 445W Sony sound system with 12 speakers.

2022 Mahindra XUV700

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2022 Mahindra XUV700

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While yet to be fully detailed, advanced driver-assist systems in the XUV700 include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, driver attention alert, high-beam assist and surround-view cameras.

Under the bonnet, the XUV700 is available with two turbocharged four-cylinder engines with optional all-wheel drive, including a 147kW/380Nm 2.0-litre petrol unit that’s mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque-converter automatic.

The 2.2-litre diesel engine is offered in 114kW/360Nm and 136kW/420-450Nm tunes, with the former only matched to the aforementioned manual transmission, while the latter also has the option of the automatic, which unlocks its maximum torque output.

CarsGuide has contacted Mahindra Australia to find out if the XUV700 will be sold locally, but given the XUV500 currently is, it’s likely to be in showrooms next year.