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The SUV segment of the Indian automotive market has seen major advancements over the last decade. While some car manufacturers tried and failed, other major automotive houses have not only kept up with consumer expectations but also set new benchmarks on what mass-market SUV models offer to the value-conscious car buyer. From smaller sub-segments rising in popularity to all-electric models flooding the market, the SUV is clearly a major demand driver in the domestic market.
Also Read: Mahindra Teases Race-Inspired BE 6, Launch Confirmed For November 26
One such success story is of the Mahindra XUV700, which was first launched in 2021. When it arrived, the XUV700 set several major benchmarks in the SUV segment. These included the 197 hp, 2.0-litre
turbo-petrol engine, Level 2 ADAS safety functions, dual 10.25-inch displays and a top speed of 200 kmph. However, with competitors catching up aggressively, the XUV700 is due for a mid-life refresh and Mahindra is expected to launch the facelifted XUV700 as the new 7XO soon. Based on the SUV's flagship roots, here are five top-of-the-line features that we expect to see in the facelifted version of the XUV700.
1. Triple Screen Set Up:
The upcoming Mahindra XUV700 facelift could be the first ICE-powered model from the carmaker to get the triple-screen setup that we have seen in the Born Electric XEV 9e flagship EV model up till now. This would include three 12.3-inch displays integrated into a seamless glass housing. These would act as a digital driver display, an infotainment touchscreen and an entertainment screen for the front passenger.
2. Electric Boss Mode:
While the current XUV700 model gets a mechanical system to push the front passenger seat ahead and make room for the rear passenger, we could see this function get more sophisticated with an electric power upgrade. The powered 'Boss Mode' will allow rear passengers to adjust the front seat's recline and reach and make room for a business-class-like experience.
3. Rear Captain Seats:
One major feature that has been missing from the XUV700 is the option of selecting a captain seat configuration for the middle row instead of the standard bench-style seat. With several rivals offering captain seats currently, we expect Mahindra to offer this important update as part of the facelift manifesto.
Watch the 2021 Mahindra XUV700 Reveal Here:
4. Adjustable Second Row:
Another key update to bring up the comfort factor in the XUV 700's second row is reach adjustability. With car buyers being offered adjustments in rival models, we expect Mahindra to update the XUV700's second row to include both recline and reach adjustments.
5. New Design Elements:
Lastly, the facelifted model will be launched with a major redesign on the front end and an all-new design for the 18-inch alloy wheels. Based on spy shots circulating the internet, the majority of the design update is focused on the SUV's front end, which will now feature a redesigned front bumper, an updated grille and an all-new LED headlamp and DRL design.
While Mahindra has not yet confirmed any launch timeline for the XUV700 facelift, we expect to get a few more hints at the upcoming Scream Electric event, which is due to be held in Bengaluru on November 26 to 27. The carmaker is expected to unveil its first 7-seater EV called the XEV 9S and a race-inspired special edition of the BE6 EV. It remains to be seen if any details on the new XUV700 (7XO) will be announced alongside the new electric vehicles.
Keep reading Times Now Auto for more instant updates on all new SUV launches.
