Mahindra XUV700 vs. Mitsubishi Outlander: A Budget SUV Showdown

In the world of family SUVs, the battle for attention is fierce, and Mahindra, the Indian carmaker, is making its move with the new XUV700. Priced as the most affordable seven-seat SUV in Australia, it aims to challenge the well-loved Mitsubishi Outlander. In this blog, we'll dive into the details, comparing features, performance, and value for money to help you decide whether the Mahindra XUV700 can truly stand up to its segment rival.

Pricing and Variants:

The Mahindra XUV700 enters the Australian market with a price tag of $36,990 drive-away, making it the most budget-friendly seven-seater. The tested AX7L variant, priced at $39,990, introduces additional safety features, competing directly with the Mitsubishi Outlander LS Black Edition, priced at $42,490 before on-road costs.

Exterior Features:

The Mahindra XUV700 impresses with its LED daytime running lights, panoramic sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a stylish floating roof design. In contrast, the Outlander LS Black Edition boasts 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, premium paint options, and suede seat upholstery. While there's a $7,000 price gap, the question remains – can the Mahindra compete with the Outlander's established reputation?

Interior Comfort and Space:

Inside the XUV700, the cabin exudes a bold aesthetic with white leather-type upholstery and a panoramic sunroof. However, the use of hard plastics and tight seat bolstering may raise concerns. On the other hand, the Outlander's faux-suede and leather-look seats offer a plush experience, with more spacious second-row seating and flexible storage options.

Infotainment and Connectivity:

The Mahindra XUV700 features a 10.25-inch screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but lacks integrated navigation and digital radio. In comparison, the Outlander's 9.0-inch infotainment system excels with native satellite navigation, digital radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay, providing a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

Safety Features:

While the Mahindra XUV700 lacks an ANCAP rating, it comes equipped with active safety measures like autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. In contrast, the Outlander LS Black Edition, with a full five-star ANCAP rating, offers a more comprehensive safety suite, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring.

Running Costs:

Mahindra offers a competitive seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, matched with seven years of roadside assistance. Servicing costs for four years total $1781. Mitsubishi, with a remarkable 10-year/200,000km warranty (conditional on exclusive servicing with Mitsubishi), provides three years of servicing for $947.

Fuel Efficiency:

The Mahindra XUV700 claims 8.3L/100km, while real-world testing suggests around 9.0L/100km. The Outlander's 7.7L/100km claim aligns closely with actual consumption. Both vehicles require 91-octane regular unleaded fuel.

Driving Experience:

The XUV700, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, offers a decent driving experience, though with noticeable vibrations. In contrast, the Outlander, featuring a non-turbo 2.5-litre engine, delivers a smoother ride, better insulation from noise, and more confident handling.

In the battle of budget-oriented family SUVs, the Mahindra XUV700 makes a compelling case with its attractive price point. However, the Mitsubishi Outlander, despite the higher price, proves to be a more polished and versatile product. With superior cabin materials, comfort, and a more comprehensive safety suite, the Outlander emerges as the preferred choice for those seeking a reliable and well-rounded family SUV.

Ensure you search the Mahindra and Mitsubishi Stock at Tynan Motors Showrooms, or online here.