Upcoming Rivals to the Mahindra XUV700: What to Watch in the

The Mahindra XUV700 has made a big splash in India’s premium midsize SUV segment. With its strong feature list, modern styling, and competitive price, it has become a benchmark for 7-seater SUVs. But the automotive landscape is never static — several new SUVs are on the way that aim to challenge the XUV700’s dominance. This blog explores those upcoming rivals, what they bring to the table, and how they could shake up your buying decision.

Why the XUV700 Has Set a High Bar

Before diving into the rivals, let’s briefly understand what makes the XUV700 stand out:

It offers 6- and 7-seater configurations, giving flexibility to families.
It packs strong features: high-end infotainment, safety tech (including ADAS in some variants), modern engine options.
The styling and road presence are bold and appealing in the segment.
Because of this, any competitor needs to match not just the size or seats, but also the tech, brand trust, and value.

The Upcoming Rivals You Should Know

Here are some of the most talked-about SUVs that will go head-to-head with the XUV700 in coming years.

1. New 7-Seater SUV from Maruti Suzuki

Maruti Suzuki is reportedly developing a three-row SUV based on its global platform, expected by around 2025. This SUV is likely to feature modern petrol or hybrid powertrains, a longer wheelbase for more space, and Maruti’s famed reliability. Launching from its Kharkhoda facility, this model seeks to give the XUV700 stiff competition in terms of trust and service network.

2. 7-Seater from Toyota

Toyota is preparing its own 7-seater SUV targeted above some of its current models and directly at rivals like the XUV700. The new Toyota SUV will share substantial tech and may offer hybrid options, focusing on premium buyers who prioritise durability and resale value.

3. Renault’s 7-Seater SUV (Based on Bigster / Duster Platform)

Renault plans to launch a 7-seater SUV that will borrow from its Bigster/Duster series, expected by mid-2026. Designed on the CMF-B modular platform, this SUV aims to deliver strong value with competitive pricing, efficient engines (turbo petrol or hybrid) and feature-rich interiors, positioning itself as a strong challenger to the XUV700.

4. Nissan’s 7-Seater / MPV Comeback

Alongside Renault’s offering, Nissan is gearing up to launch a large SUV or MPV in India that will go after the 7-seater space. With a global platform and modern architecture, this model could attract buyers who want something different from the Mahindra-Tata duo.

What These Rivals Must Get Right to Challenge the XUV700

For any of these models to truly take on the XUV700, several criteria must be met:

Strong Value Proposition: The pricing needs to be competitive. The XUV700 offers a lot for its price, so new entrants must under-cut or match with clear advantages.
Feature-Loaded Tech: Modern buyers expect ADAS, large infotainment screens, connectivity, premium interiors. A rival must deliver these or better.
Brand Trust & After-Sales: One advantage Mahindra has is its growing network and service coverage. New players must ensure strong support.
Powertrain Efficiency & Options: Competitive petrol, diesel (where still relevant), and hybrid options will matter. Fuel economy and performance both count.
Space & Practicality: For 7-seaters, third-row usability, boot space, flexibility matter. Rival models must match or exceed the cabin experience.
Timing & Launch Execution: Being first to market with a well-developed product often wins. Delays can mean losing ground to the XUV700 evolution or even to price drops.

How This Rivalry Benefits Buyers

If you’re planning to buy a 7-seater SUV in the next 12-24 months, this intensifying rivalry is good news:

You’ll likely see better pricing, promo offers, and trade-in deals as brands fight for dominance.
Feature sets will keep improving. Even if you select the XUV700, rivals pushing the envelope means Mahindra will need to upgrade proactively — benefiting all.
More choice means you can decide based on what matters most — price, service network, brand, specific features — rather than being locked into one option by default.

Possible Timeline & Buyer Strategy

2025: The Maruti and Toyota 7-seaters could launch. Early adopters and families might wait for these.
2026: Renault and Nissan models expected, making the segment even more crowded.
Now: If you need a car immediately, the XUV700 remains a strong option. If you can wait 6-12 months, these upcoming rivals could offer improved value or fresh tech.

Final Thoughts

The Mahindra XUV700 has earned its place as a leading choice in the premium 7-seater SUV segment in India. But it will not hold that crown uncontested for long. With new entries from Maruti, Toyota, Renault and Nissan on the horizon, buyers are headed toward a sweet spot of choice, value and innovation.

If you’re in the market for a large SUV, keep your timeline and priorities in mind. Whether you buy the XUV700 today or wait for the next rival to arrive, the competition will ensure you get more for your money.