New Indian competitor to Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5! 2022 Mahindra XUV700 offers five- or seven-seat versatility to replace aging XUV500

The new XUV700 (pictured) replaces the XUV500 as Mahindra's mid-size SUV.

Mahindra has unveiled an all-new XUV700 with a mid-size SUV offering five- or seven-seat versatility to replace the Indian brand's aging XUV500 and challenge the all-conquering Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.

The XUV700 is a big deal for Mahindra as the midsize SUV debuts the Indian brand's latest design language, including retractable door handles as well as its new logo. However, the connection between it and the XUV500 is clear thanks to the C-shaped front lights and pronounced rear end.

For reference, the XUV700 is based on the new Mahindra W601 platform and is 4695mm long (with a 2750mm wheelbase), 1890mm wide and 1755mm high, making it a bit bigger for a mid-sized SUV.

While the XUV700 is undeniably more modern than the XUV500 on the outside, it feels generational-separated on the inside, mostly thanks to the two available 10.25-inch central touchscreen displays and digital instrument cluster housed under a single glass panel.

But even in entry-level form, the XUV700 comes with an 8.0-inch center touchscreen and 7.0-inch multifunction display, so it's still up to date, though only the larger setup's infotainment system comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless support. and a 445W Sony sound system with 12 speakers.

Although the advanced driver assistance systems in the XUV700 are not yet fully detailed, they include blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, driver warning, high beam assist and surround view cameras.

Under the hood of the XUV700, two turbocharged four-cylinder engines and optional all-wheel drive are available, including a 147kW/380Nm 2.0-litre petrol unit mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. .

The 2.2-litre diesel engine is offered in 114kW/360Nm and 136kW/420-450Nm variants, with the former only working with the aforementioned manual transmission, while the latter can also be fitted with an automatic transmission that unlocks maximum torque output.

Cars Guide contacted Mahindra Australia to see if the XUV700 would be sold locally, but considering the XUV500 is currently on sale, it will likely hit showrooms next year.