Introduction
When it comes to choosing the ideal family SUV, the market offers a plethora of options, and two notable contenders are Mahindra's XUV700 and Mitsubishi's Outlander. In this in-depth analysis, we will scrutinize every facet, from pricing to driving experience, helping you make a well-informed decision on the best budget-friendly seven-seater for your family's needs.
Pricing and Variants:
Mahindra XUV700 enters the Australian market at an enticing starting price of $36,990 (Rs. 26,57,200) drive-away, firmly establishing itself as the most budget-friendly seven-seater in its segment.
The AX7L variant, priced at $39,990, puts the XUV700 in direct competition with the Mitsubishi Outlander LS Black Edition, which commands a slightly higher price at $42,490 before on-road costs.
Exterior Features:
Mahindra's XUV700 boasts an eye-catching exterior with LED daytime running lights, a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a stylish floating roof design.
Contrarily, the Outlander LS Black Edition impresses with larger 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, premium paint options, and suede seat upholstery. Despite a Rs. 7,000 price gap, the lingering question is whether Mahindra's offering can truly match the well-established reputation of the Outlander.
Interior Comfort and Space:
Within the confines of the XUV700, the cabin exudes a bold aesthetic, featuring white leather-type upholstery and a panoramic sunroof. However, concerns may arise regarding the utilization of hard plastics and tight seat bolstering.
Mitsubishi's Outlander, on the other hand, offers a more opulent experience with faux-suede and leather-look seats. Additionally, it provides more spacious second-row seating and flexible storage options, adding an extra layer of appeal.
Infotainment and Connectivity:
Mahindra's XUV700 showcases a technologically advanced 10.25-inch screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it falls short in integrated navigation and digital radio.
The Outlander's 9.0-inch infotainment system takes the lead, boasting native satellite navigation, digital radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay. This results in a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience for the driver and passengers.
Safety Features:
Despite lacking an ANCAP rating, the XUV700 is equipped with active safety measures such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.
Mitsubishi's Outlander LS Black Edition, holding a full five-star ANCAP rating, provides a more extensive safety suite, including rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring.
Running Costs:
Mahindra sweetens the deal with a competitive seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and seven years of roadside assistance. The total servicing cost for four years amounts to $1781.
Mitsubishi steps up with a remarkable 10-year/200,000km warranty (conditional on exclusive servicing with Mitsubishi) and offers three years of servicing for $947, ensuring long-term peace of mind for the buyer.
Fuel Efficiency:
The XUV700 claims a reasonable 8.3L/100km, but real-world testing suggests it might hover around 9.0L/100km.
Outlander's 7.7L/100km claim aligns closely with actual consumption. Both vehicles require 91-octane regular unleaded fuel, providing a balance between performance and efficiency.
Driving Experience:
The XUV700, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, offers a decent driving experience, though some may notice vibrations during operation.
In contrast, the Outlander, featuring a non-turbo 2.5-litre engine, delivers a smoother ride, better insulation from external noise, and more confident handling on various road conditions.
While the Mahindra XUV700 presents a compelling case with its attractive price point in the competitive realm of budget family SUVs, the Mitsubishi Outlander, despite its higher price, emerges as a more refined and versatile option. With superior cabin materials, enhanced comfort, and a comprehensive safety suite, the Outlander stands out as the preferred choice for those seeking a reliable and well-rounded family SUV.