On Saturday, August 7, Neeraj Chopra bagged India’s first gold medal at the just-concluded 2021 Tokyo Olympics. In doing so, he became only the second Indian — after Abhinav Bindra in 2008 — to win a gold in an individual event at the Olympics. The track and field athlete won the gold in the men’s javelin throw category, recording 87.58 metres in his second attempt.
Following this, a Twitter user tweeted to Anand Mahindra, urging him to set aside an XUV700 for Chopra. Mahindra readily agreed to the idea, expressing his privilege and asking his company executives to give one SUV to the gold medallist.
Mahindra has started teasing XUV700’s features ahead of its reveal this month. It was recently spied testing without any camouflage, revealing its exterior styling and the new logo.
Going by the teasers, the SUV will get an AdrenoX and Amazon Alexa-powered 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, drive modes, a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, driver drowsiness detection, and high-beam assist.
Furthermore, the XUV700 is expected to feature a 360-degree camera, dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which will possibly include auto emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind-spot detection, and adaptive cruise control.
The Mahindra XUV700 will get the Thar’s 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines but re-tuned for more power. Transmission options for both powertrains will include 6-speed manual and automatic units. An optional AWD will also be offered, possibly for the higher-spec trims.
The SUV will likely be priced from Rs 16 lakh to Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom). It will take on the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus and Hyundai Alcazar.
