Mahindra XUV 7XO AX Variant Review: The Most Feature-Loaded Base Model in India?
In the Indian automotive market, the term “Base Model” usually conjures up images of stripped-down vehicles: black bumpers, steel wheels without covers, manual windows, and a gaping hole where the music system should be. It is often a compromise buyers make to fit a big car into a small budget. However, Mahindra has just rewritten the dictionary with the launch of the Mahindra XUV 7XO. Why Mahindra XUV 7XO AX Variant is Better Than AX3 and AX5
The entry-level variant, known as the AX, is not just a gateway to the XUV lineup; it is a fully-loaded SUV that embarrasses the mid-spec variants of its competitors. With an introductory starting price of ₹ 13.66 Lakh, the XUV 7XO AX is arguably the most disruptive product launch of 2026. Mahindra XUV 7XO Best Variant To Buy 2026 Full Review
At MotorCarVerse, we believe this specific variant deserves a dedicated deep dive. Here is a comprehensive look at the features, price, and engineering of the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX Variant.
The Price Tag: A Shock to the System
Let’s address the elephant in the room first: the pricing. Mahindra has a history of aggressive launch pricing (remember the XUV500 in 2011 and XUV700 in 2021?), and they have doubled down with the 7XO.
Ex-Showroom Prices (Introductory):
- XUV 7XO AX Petrol MT (7-Seater): ₹ 13.66 Lakh
- XUV 7XO AX Diesel MT (7-Seater): ₹ 13.96 Lakh
On-Road Price Estimates:
Depending on your state’s tax structure, the on-road price will hover between ₹ 16.00 Lakh to ₹ 17.50 Lakh.
For this price, you are getting a full-sized, 4.7-meter-long, 7-seater SUV. To put that in perspective, this is roughly the same price bracket as the top-end Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos, which are significantly smaller 5-seater vehicles.
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Exterior Design: Does it Look “Basic”?
One of the biggest fears of buying a base model is the “cheap” look. Mahindra has ensured the AX variant holds its head high.
Lighting
Gone are the dull halogen bulbs. The AX variant comes standard with Bi-LED Projector Headlamps. While it might miss out on the fancy “Auto Booster” function of the top trims, the light throw is premium and powerful. It also gets distinctive LED Tail Lamps that give it a signature look at night.
Wheels and Door Handles
The car rides on 17-inch Steel Wheels, but Mahindra provides stylish wheel covers that mimic the look of alloys. Unless you look closely, it passes off as a mid-spec trim. Furthermore, it retains the Smart Door Handles (flush fitting). While they are manually operated (you push to open, they don’t pop out electrically), they preserve the futuristic aerodynamic aesthetic of the flagship trims.
What You Don’t Get:
- Fog Lamps
- Alloy Wheels
- Chrome Windowlines
- Panoramic Sunroof
Interior & Tech: The “Triple Screen” Revolution
This is where the XUV 7XO AX leaves the competition in the dust. Step inside, and you are greeted by a cabin that feels anything but basic.
The Dashboard
The highlight is the Triple Screen Setup. Yes, even the base model gets the wide-screen digital cockpit experience.
- Instrument Cluster: A fully digital display showing speed, RPM, and vital vehicle stats.
- Infotainment: A 10.25-inch touchscreen system.
- AdrenoX Connect: Incredible for a base model, it supports connectivity features.
Connectivity & Audio
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay: No messy cables needed.
- 6-Speaker Sound System: You don’t need to visit an aftermarket shop for audio.
- Type-C Charging: Includes a 65W fast charger in the front (capable of charging laptops) and Type-C ports for rear passengers.
Comfort & Convenience
- Push Button Start/Stop: Standard.
- Cruise Control: This is unheard of in base variants. Mahindra has included steering-mounted cruise control, making highway driving effortless.
- All 4 Power Windows: With One-Touch Down for the driver.
- Rear AC Vents: Dedicated vents for the 2nd and 3rd rows ensuring the cabin cools quickly.
- Center Armrest: A front storage armrest is standard.
Engine & Performance: No Compromise on Power
Usually, manufacturers offer a weaker, underpowered engine in the base model (like the 1.5L Diesel in the Alcazar or Hector). Mahindra, however, gives you the big guns.
1. 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol
- Power: 200 PS
- Torque: 380 Nm
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
- Driving Feel: This is the most powerful engine in the segment. The acceleration is brutal, and the refinement is top-class. If you don’t mind single-digit mileage figures in the city, this engine turns the AX variant into a enthusiast’s dream.
2. 2.2L mHawk Diesel (Lower State of Tune)
- Power: 155 PS
- Torque: 360 Nm
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
- Driving Feel: While the higher variants get 185 PS, the 155 PS tune in the AX is more than adequate. It offers better fuel efficiency and significantly better low-end torque than competitors like the Tata Safari (170 PS) due to the sheer displacement of the engine.
Safety Features: 5-Star DNA
Mahindra has not stripped safety to cut costs. The XUV 7XO AX is built on a high-strength steel platform designed to ace crash tests.
Standard Safety Kit:
- 6 Airbags: Driver, Passenger, two Side airbags, and two Curtain airbags protecting all rows.
- ESC (Electronic Stability Control): Crucial for preventing skids in a large SUV.
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts: For family safety.
- All-Wheel Disc Brakes: Superior stopping power compared to drum brakes.
- TPMS (Highline): A tire position display is included.
What You Miss:
- ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
- 360-Degree Camera
- Reverse Camera (You only get sensors, but a camera can be added as an accessory).
Seating and Space: A True 7-Seater
The AX variant comes exclusively in a 7-seater configuration.
- Front Row: Comfortable fabric bucket seats with height-adjustable headrests.
- Second Row: A bench seat with a 60:40 split and a center armrest with cupholders. It has a “One-Touch Tumble” function for easy entry to the third row.
- Third Row: Usable for adults on short trips and kids on long trips. It gets its own AC vents and fan speed control.
What is Missing? (The Compromises)
To achieve the ₹ 13.66 Lakh price point, some corners had to be cut. Here is what you might miss in the AX variant:
- Rear Wiper & Defogger: A safety miss for rainy conditions.
- Electric Folding Mirrors: You have to fold them manually (internal electric adjustment is present).
- Soft-Touch Materials: The dashboard and door pads are hard plastic, lacking the leatherette inserts of the AX7.
- Reverse Camera: Only sensors are provided.
- Auto Climate Control: You get manual AC controls (though the cooling is potent).
Comparison: XUV 7XO AX vs. Rivals (Base Models)
Let’s compare the XUV 7XO AX with the base models of its primary rivals: the Tata Safari Smart and MG Hector Style.
| Feature | Mahindra XUV 7XO AX | Tata Safari Smart | MG Hector Style |
| Price (Starting) | ₹ 13.66 Lakh | ~₹ 16.19 Lakh | ~₹ 13.99 Lakh |
| Engine | 2.0L Petrol (200 PS) | 2.0L Diesel (170 PS) | 1.5L Petrol (143 PS) |
| Infotainment | 10.25-inch Screen | No Music System | No Music System |
| Cruise Control | Yes | No | No |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 | 2 |
| Wheels | 17-inch (Cover) | 17-inch (Alloy) | 17-inch (Steel) |
Analysis: The XUV 7XO AX obliterates the competition. It is cheaper than the Safari Smart yet offers a touchscreen, cruise control, and a more powerful petrol engine. Compared to the Hector, it offers significantly more power and safety kit (6 airbags vs 2).
Verdict: Who Should Buy the AX Variant?
The Mahindra XUV 7XO AX is not for the buyer who wants luxury; it is for the buyer who understands value.
Buy the AX Variant If:
- You are Budget Conscious: You want a massive, safe, and powerful SUV but cannot stretch your budget to ₹ 20 Lakhs.
- You are a Modifier: You plan to add alloy wheels, leather seat covers, and a reverse camera from the aftermarket. With these additions (costing ~₹ 60k), the AX looks and feels like a top model.
- You Prioritize Engineering: You care more about the 200 PS engine and 5-star safety than you do about a sunroof or ambient lighting.
The Bottom Line:
Mahindra has redefined what “entry-level” means. The XUV 7XO AX is, without a doubt, the most feature-rich base model SUV India has ever seen. Don’t let the “Base Model” tag fool you; this is a complete car.
Disclaimer: Prices mentioned are introductory ex-showroom prices. Features and specifications are based on the launch brochure and are subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the XUV 7XO AX variant have a sunroof?
No, the base AX variant does not come with a sunroof. The Panoramic Skyroof is available starting from the AX5 variant.
2. Can I install a reverse camera in the AX variant?
Yes, since the car comes with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, you can easily install a reverse parking camera as an official accessory or from the aftermarket.
3. Does the base model have alloy wheels?
No, the AX variant rides on 17-inch Steel Wheels. However, it comes with stylish wheel covers that mimic the look of alloy wheels.
4. Is the petrol engine in the AX variant underpowered?
Absolutely not. The AX Petrol variant uses the same 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol engine as the top model, producing a massive 200 PS of power.
5. Does the XUV 7XO AX have rear AC vents?
Yes, it features Rear AC Vents for both the second and third rows, with a dedicated blower speed controller for the third row.
6. Is Cruise Control standard in the base model?
Yes, surprisingly, Cruise Control is a standard feature in the XUV 7XO AX variant, making it excellent for highway driving.
7. How many speakers does the AX variant have?
The base variant comes equipped with a 6-Speaker Sound System, providing decent audio quality without needing immediate upgrades.
8. Are the door handles electric in the base model?
No, the Smart Door Handles in the AX variant are manual. They sit flush with the body for aerodynamics but need to be pushed/pulled manually, unlike the motorized pop-out handles in the AX7 Luxury.
9. Does it support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?
Yes, it supports Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing you to use navigation and music apps seamlessly.
10. Is the Diesel engine available in the AX variant?
Yes, the XUV 7XO AX is available with a 2.2L mHawk Diesel engine (155 PS tune) paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
11. What safety features are missing in the base model?
The base model misses out on ADAS, 360-degree camera, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (Lowline provided, not Highline), and Blind View Monitor.
12. Can I fold the ORVMs electrically in the AX variant?
No, the Outside Rear View Mirrors (ORVMs) are electrically adjustable (for the glass) but must be folded manually.
13. Does the driver seat have height adjustment?
Yes, the driver’s seat in the AX variant comes with Manual Height Adjustment.
14. What is the waiting period for the AX variant?
The base AX variant typically commands a high waiting period, currently estimated between 8 to 12 months depending on the location.
15. Is the AX variant available in 5-seater configuration?
No, the XUV 7XO AX variant is available exclusively as a 7-Seater. There is no 5-seater option for this car.
