Mahindra & Mahindra is firing on all cylinders, with test mules of fresh models popping up across Indian roads like uninvited guests at a family reunion. In the next six months, expect the automaker to drop the much-anticipated facelifted XUV700—a refined take on its bestseller—and the electrifying XEV 7e, a three-row EV that promises to blend family-hauling prowess with zero-emission zip. These launches aren’t just refreshes; they’re Mahindra’s bid to keep the SUV wars raging while tipping its hat to the EV revolution sweeping India.
Building on the success of hits like the Thar Roxx and recent EVs such as the BE 6, Mahindra’s strategy mixes mid-cycle tweaks for its ICE lineup with bold electric entries. The XUV700 facelift, eyed for early 2026, will carry over familiar engines but amp up the tech and style, while the XEV 7e—potentially arriving by mid-2026—could undercut rivals with a 500+ km range and premium features starting around Rs 25 lakh. It’s a smart play in a market where buyers crave versatility without the range anxiety.
Spy shot of the facelifted Mahindra XUV700, hinting at sharper headlights and a bolder grille.
Mahindra’s Next Big Moves
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Launches | XUV700 Facelift (Q1 2026), XEV 7e EV (Mid-2026) |
| XUV700 Powertrains | 2.0L Turbo-Petrol (200 PS), 2.2L Diesel (up to 200 PS); 6MT/AT |
| XEV 7e Battery/Range | 59kWh/79kWh options; 500-650 km claimed range |
| Shared Features | Triple 12.3-inch screens, Level 2+ ADAS, Harman Kardon audio |
| Expected Pricing | XUV700: Rs 14-25 lakh; XEV 7e: Rs 25-35 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Platform | XUV700: Updated W601; XEV 7e: INGLO EV architecture |
| Rivals | XUV700: Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier; XEV 7e: Tata Safari EV, BYD e6 |
XUV700 Facelift: Evolutionary Polish for a Crowd-Pleaser
Spied multiple times in recent months, the 2026 XUV700 facelift doesn’t reinvent the wheel but sharpens the edges that made it a segment darling. Up front, expect a redesigned grille with vertical slats echoing Mahindra’s EV cues, flanked by sleeker dual-pod LED headlights and reworked DRLs—gone are the circular Thar-like temps from early mules. The side stays true to form with flush handles and a fresh alloy wheel design, while the rear might score new taillamps and a sculpted bumper for that premium punch. It’s all about aerodynamics and presence without straying too far from the family-friendly silhouette.
Triple-screen dashboard spied in the XUV700 facelift, borrowing from Mahindra’s EV playbook.
Inside, the real excitement brews with a triple 12.3-inch screen setup—driver display, infotainment, and passenger unit—mirroring the XEV 9e for a cockpit vibe that’s equal parts futuristic and functional. Toss in Harman Kardon 16-speaker audio (1400W peak), Level 2+ ADAS with self-parking, ventilated second-row seats (on captain variants), and rear sunshades, and it’s clear Mahindra’s chasing luxury without the bloat. Power remains unchanged: the 2.0L petrol (200 PS) and 2.2L diesel (up to 200 PS) with manual or auto boxes, ensuring that highway-slaying torque stays intact. Priced from Rs 14 lakh, it’ll keep the Creta and Harrier on their toes.
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XEV 7e: The Electric Heir to XUV700’s Throne
Hot on the ICE facelift’s heels, the XEV 7e emerges as Mahindra’s three-row EV flagship, built on the INGLO platform for that born-electric edge. Spyshots tease a design lifted from the XUV700 but with EV flair: a closed grille, aerodynamic bumpers, and those signature C-shaped DRLs. It’s longer and wider than its ICE sibling by a smidge, promising better space for seven without sacrificing the coupe-like roofline vibes from the XUV.e8 concept.
Under the skin, dual battery choices—59kWh for 500 km or 79kWh for 650 km—pair with single or dual-motor setups (up to 350 PS and AWD potential), making it a torque monster for overtakes or off-grid jaunts. The cabin? A tech haven with the same triple screens, plus ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, and bi-directional charging for home backups. Safety gets Level 2 ADAS as standard, because who wants range anxiety when you can have collision avoidance? At Rs 25-35 lakh, it eyes the Tata Safari EV and imported rivals, positioning Mahindra as the go-to for electric family adventurers.
Beyond the Big Two: A Pipeline of Promise
While the XUV700 duo steals the spotlight, whispers from test tracks point to more: the rugged BE 6 Rall-E EV with AWD grit (launching 2026, ~389 PS) and the compact XUV 3XO EV (Q1 2026, 300-450 km range from 34-39kWh packs). These aren’t filler; they’re Mahindra’s chess moves in a board dominated by Tata and Hyundai, blending rugged heritage with green innovation. Imagine zipping through monsoons in an EV Thar.e or conquering dunes in the Rall-E—it’s the kind of lineup that keeps enthusiasts glued.
XEV 7e test mule, showcasing EV-specific charging flap and aerodynamic tweaks.
Why This Matters for Mahindra Fans
In a year where EVs hit 10 lakh sales nationwide, Mahindra’s six-month sprint underscores its dual-path mastery: evolving ICE icons while electrifying the future. The XUV700 facelift keeps loyalists happy with subtle upgrades, but the XEV 7e? That’s the spark for fence-sitters eyeing sustainability. With production ramping at Chakan and prices that undercut imports, these could redefine ‘value’ in premium SUVs. As test miles pile up, one thing’s certain: Mahindra’s not just building cars; it’s crafting legends. Which one’s got you revved— the polished XUV or the electric beast? Hit the comments and let’s debate!
