The Mahindra XUV700 retains the muscular silhouette of its predecessor but adopts a more modern and sleek design. The front fascia is dominated by a large grille with the new Mahindra logo, flanked by sleek LED headlights and C-shaped LED DRLs. The bulging bonnet gives the XUV700 a strong road presence, while the bold character lines running along the sides enhance its rugged yet sophisticated appeal​.

At the rear, the SUV features LED tail lamps with a contemporary design, adding to the premium feel. The 18-inch alloy wheels on higher variants give the XUV700 a sturdy stance. The overall design is an evolution of the XUV500 but with cleaner lines, modern touches, and more aerodynamic proportion

The XUV700 offers a choice of two engines: a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. The petrol engine produces 197 bhp and 380 Nm of torque, making it a powerful option for city and highway driving. The diesel engine comes in two states of tune: 153 bhp for the lower variants and 182 bhp for the higher trims. The diesel variant offers up to 450 Nm of torque, making it an excellent choice for those seeking robust performance​.

Both engines come with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The automatic variant provides smoother shifts, especially in city traffic, while the manual version is ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The diesel engine's torque delivery is particularly impressive, offering a strong mid-range punch, perfect for overtaking on highway

The ride and handling of the XUV700 have seen significant improvements over the XUV500. Equipped with an independent front and rear suspension, the SUV offers a smooth and composed ride over varying terrains. Whether on highways or city roads, the XUV700 absorbs bumps and undulations with ease, making it a comfortable cruiser for long journeys​.

In terms of handling, the SUV remains stable and planted at higher speeds, with minimal body roll during cornering. The steering is well-weighted, offering good feedback, and makes maneuvering this large vehicle in tight spaces easier than expected. While there’s a hint of body roll in sharper corners, it’s significantly better controlled than in the previous generation

The Mahindra XUV700 scores high on comfort, offering a premium interior with plush seating and ample space. The front seats are well-bolstered, providing excellent support for long drives.

 The driver’s seat is electronically adjustable, with lumbar support, and higher trims come with ventilated seats, adding to the comfort level in hot weather​.

The second row offers generous legroom and headroom, with rear AC vents ensuring that passengers in the back stay cool and comfortable. However, the third row is best suited for children or shorter adults, as space is limited, and the seating position feels a bit cramped. For longer journeys, the third row may not be ideal for adults, but it's perfectly adequate for short trips​.