Exploring Africa in the Mahindra XUV700
By Kirtan Bhana
Diplomatic Vehicle Test
13 December 2023
Embarking on an African road trip is a dream for many adventure enthusiasts, and the Mahindra XUV700 AX7L proves to be an ideal companion for such an extraordinary journey. Our recent expedition took us to the heart of Limpopo Province, South Africa, where we discovered the perfect blend of Indian style and rugged performance in this remarkable SUV.
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7L is an eye-catching marvel, and its aesthetic appeal is perfectly suited for the diverse landscapes and terrain of South Africa. The bold front grille, sculpted body lines, and stylish LED headlights make a powerful statement on the road. The signature C-shaped LED taillights add a touch of elegance, ensuring that the XUV700 stands out.
The XUV700 AX7L is not just about looks; its performance on African roads is equally impressive. The robust suspension system and high ground clearance at 200mm makes it well-equipped to handle the varied terrains encountered. Whether navigating gravel roads, river crossings, or uneven paths, the XUV700 provides a smooth and controlled ride, ensuring a comfortable experience for both driver and passengers.
Under the hood, the XUV700 AX7L boasts a powerful engine that delivers the necessary performance. The 2 litre turbo petrol engine pushing out 380 Nm of torque, and the efficient transmission system, effortlessly tackled the long stretches between cities and the off-road trails. The engine's responsiveness and fuel efficiency were particularly commendable, ensuring we could focus on enjoying the journey. The XUV700 is also available with a 2.2 turbo diesel powertrain with 450 Nm of torque.
One of the standout features of the Mahindra XUV700 AX7L is its spacious and luxurious interior. The five-seater SUV adjust to a seven-seater SUV with foldable seats with ample legroom and comfortable seating, making it an ideal choice for long journeys. The leather upholstery, modern dashboard, and panoramic sunroof add a touch of sophistication, creating an inviting atmosphere within the vehicle. It easily accommodated a family of five, their luggage and food and supplies for a four day weekend safari.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The XUV700 AX7L comes equipped with a state-of-the-art infotainment system. The intuitive touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity ensured seamless integration with our smartphones. The well-placed controls on the steering wheel allowed us to stay connected and in control without being distracted from the road.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount, especially when venturing into remote areas, and the XUV700 AX7L prioritizes it with a range of advanced safety features. The vehicle is equipped with multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, and a 360-degree camera system, providing a comprehensive safety net for the driver and passengers. The adaptive cruise control is an advanced driver assist with intelligent speed that adapts your speed to the vehicles around you.
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7L exceeded our expectations as the ideal vehicle for an African road trip with Indian style. Its striking design, powerful performance, spacious interior, and advanced safety features make it a standout choice for an official vehicle, business, and family or for the adventurers seeking a comfortable and stylish ride.
The reliability and capability of the Mahindra XUV700 AX7L launched in 2022 is a clear statement that the Mahindra motor corporation has arrived on the motoring scene. The revamped branding is a statement of its growing stature as a leading motor vehicle brand which also symbolises the extraordinary growth and development that India is currently experiencing. The Mahindra is being considered at all levels and is definitely catching the eye as a Diplomatic Vehicle.