Mahindra is getting ready to give its popular flagship SUV a serious upgrade. When the facelifted model arrives early next year, the familiar XUV700 badge will be dropped in favour of a new name — XUV 7XO — along with a reshuffled variant lineup. The biggest talking point? A brand-new AX9L top-end trim that pushes the SUV further into premium territory.
According to industry inputs, the Mahindra XUV 7XO will officially break cover on January 5, 2026, and prices are expected to start just under ₹14 lakh (ex-showroom).
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AX9L: What’s New at the Top?
The new AX9L variant is expected to sit above another fresh trim, AX9. The “L” is believed to stand for Luxury, and the feature list clearly backs that up.
Buyers opting for the AX9L can expect:
- Flush-fitting, automatically extending door handles
- Sequential turn indicators
- A 12.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger
- Front passenger power seat with memory and boss mode
- Ventilated second-row seats
- Driver knee airbag
This makes the XUV 7XO one of the very few SUVs in its segment to offer a three-screen cabin setup with comfort features focused not just on the driver, but rear-seat occupants as well.
Engines and Drivetrain Options
Mahindra has confirmed that the AX9L will be offered with a 2.2-litre diesel engine, paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.
That said, more options are expected across the range:
- 2.2-litre diesel with 6-speed manual, likely in FWD for better efficiency
- 2.0-litre turbo-petrol with manual and automatic gearbox options
- Petrol versions are expected to remain front-wheel drive
This approach should allow Mahindra to cater to both performance-focused buyers and those looking for everyday usability.
Sharper Design, Bigger Wheels
On the outside, the XUV 7XO facelift will bring noticeable visual updates. Expect:
- More aggressive headlamp styling
- Redesigned front and rear bumpers
- A larger and bolder grille setup
- Partially clear-lens tail lamps
The road presence gets a boost with 19-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/55 R19 Ceat SportDrive tyres, giving the SUV a more planted and premium stance.
Inside: Triple Screens and a New Look
Step inside, and the changes are even more obvious. The XUV 7XO will feature a redesigned dashboard, a new two-spoke steering wheel, and three 12.3-inch displays — digital instrument cluster, infotainment system, and the new passenger screen.
This is a step up from the 10.25-inch screens seen on the current XUV700. All displays will run updated software with more connected features and improved usability.
The top variant will get a beige-and-tan interior theme, though Mahindra may also offer darker cabin options for buyers who prefer a sportier or low-maintenance look.
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Safety and Seating Layout
Safety will continue to be a strong focus. The XUV 7XO is expected to come with a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite, including advanced driver assistance features aimed at highway and city driving.
Mahindra will offer the SUV only in three-row configurations, with six-seat and seven-seat layouts available.
Launch Timeline and Expected Pricing
Mahindra plans to launch the XUV 7XO on January 5, 2026. With prices expected to begin just under ₹14 lakh, the SUV will continue to target buyers looking for a tech-heavy, spacious family SUV with a premium feel.
With a new name, a luxury-focused AX9L trim, and meaningful upgrades inside and out, the XUV 7XO looks set to raise the bar in the full-size SUV segment.


