Mahindra is all set to kick off 2026 with a major product reveal, and just a day before its official unveiling, the upcoming Mahindra XUV 7XO has been spotted completely undisguised. The SUV, which is widely believed to be a heavily refreshed version of the popular XUV700, was recently seen in public, giving enthusiasts and potential buyers a clear look at what Mahindra has been working on behind the scenes.
The new images, shared online by automotive page MotoWagon, offer a detailed view of the SUV’s exterior and interior, confirming many of the changes teased earlier by Mahindra. With its sharper styling, upgraded cabin, and a long list of premium features, the XUV 7XO appears to be positioned as a more sophisticated and tech-focused evolution of the XUV700 rather than an all-new replacement.
A Familiar Nameplate, but a Stronger Visual Identity
At first glance, the Mahindra XUV 7XO still carries the familiar proportions of the XUV700, which is not surprising given that it is essentially a facelift. However, a closer look reveals that Mahindra has made meaningful updates to ensure the SUV feels fresh and contemporary.
The spotted vehicle is finished in what looks like a Midnight Black paint shade, which further accentuates its updated design elements. The front end has undergone the most noticeable transformation. The headlights are completely new, featuring revised LED internals, sharper daytime running lights, and animated turn indicators that add a premium touch. These lighting updates give the XUV 7XO a more aggressive and modern face, especially when compared to the outgoing model.
Dominating the front fascia is a reworked grille that now looks wider and more upright. It features eight vertical slats, lending the SUV a bolder road presence. The iconic Twin Peaks logo sits proudly at the centre, reinforcing Mahindra’s evolving design language.
The bumper has also been redesigned, with sleeker fog lamps, a silver-finished skid plate, and a reshaped air dam. Together, these elements make the XUV 7XO appear more rugged yet refined, striking a balance between urban sophistication and SUV toughness.
Side and Rear Design: Subtle but Effective Tweaks
While the front end grabs most of the attention, the side and rear profiles also receive subtle updates. The overall silhouette remains largely unchanged, ensuring continuity for existing XUV700 owners. However, small refinements such as updated alloy wheel designs and revised lighting signatures help differentiate the XUV 7XO from its predecessor.
At the rear, Mahindra appears to have made minor changes to the tail-lamp detailing and bumper design, keeping the look clean and cohesive. These updates may not be dramatic, but they contribute to a more polished overall appearance.
Interior: A Clear Step Up in Luxury
The biggest transformation, however, seems to have taken place inside the cabin. Leaked images reveal that the interior of the XUV 7XO takes strong inspiration from Mahindra’s electric SUV, the XEV 9S, particularly in terms of layout and technology.
That said, the XUV 7XO carves out its own identity through its choice of colours and materials. Unlike the muted, minimalist tones used in the EV, the 7XO embraces a more luxury-oriented Brown and Beige theme. Soft-touch materials are generously applied across the dashboard, door panels, and centre console, creating a rich and welcoming cabin ambience.
Tan Brown accents extend to the steering wheel, adding a premium visual contrast. The seats appear plush and well-cushioned, with high-quality upholstery that suggests a focus on long-distance comfort. Overall, the cabin feels more upmarket, positioning the XUV 7XO as a strong rival to premium SUVs in its segment.
Triple-Screen Setup and Premium Audio
Mahindra has officially confirmed that the XUV 7XO will feature three 12.3-inch screens. This includes a fully digital instrument cluster, a large central touchscreen infotainment system, and a dedicated display for the front passenger. This triple-screen layout is designed to enhance both functionality and in-car entertainment, bringing the SUV in line with global tech-forward offerings.
Adding to the experience is a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos. This setup promises immersive audio quality, making the XUV 7XO one of the best-equipped SUVs in its class when it comes to entertainment. Mahindra is also offering BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) mounts, allowing passengers to securely mount their personal devices for added convenience.
Comfort and Convenience Features in Abundance
Beyond screens and sound, the XUV 7XO is expected to offer a comprehensive list of comfort features. These include wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, and powered front seats with memory function for the driver.
Second-row passengers are not forgotten either. The SUV is likely to offer slide and recline functionality for the rear seats, improving comfort on long journeys. A panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting further elevate the cabin experience, giving the XUV 7XO a truly premium feel.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is another area where Mahindra is raising the bar. The XUV 7XO is expected to come with a segment-first 540-degree camera system, which provides a comprehensive view of the surroundings and aids in parking and low-speed manoeuvres.
In addition, the SUV will feature a connected car suite and Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This is likely to include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition, making the XUV 7XO one of the safest and most technologically advanced SUVs in its category.
Engines and Mechanical Package
Under the hood, Mahindra is sticking with proven hardware. The XUV 7XO will continue to be offered with the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and the 2.2-litre diesel unit that currently power the XUV700. Both engines are expected to be available with manual and automatic gearbox options.
The top-end variant is also likely to retain the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, catering to buyers who value off-road capability and enhanced traction.
Launch Expectations and Market Positioning
With its official unveiling scheduled for January 5, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is shaping up to be one of the most important launches for the brand this year. Rather than reinventing the wheel, Mahindra has focused on refining an already successful product by improving its design, technology, and luxury quotient.
The XUV 7XO appears ready to appeal to both existing XUV700 owners looking for an upgrade and new buyers seeking a feature-rich, premium SUV with strong performance credentials. Pricing and variant details will be revealed at launch, but expectations are that Mahindra will position the 7XO competitively, ensuring it remains a strong contender in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment.