The Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition: Luxury Meets Affordability

In the heart of Melbourne’s high-society streets, where luxury cars like Audis, BMW X5s, and Porsche Macans are commonplace, there’s a newcomer on the block that’s turning heads. The Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition might not have the price tag of a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, but it’s making a statement with its sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance—at a price that’s truly accessible. At just $43,990 drive-away, this Indian-built SUV offers luxury features that rival far more expensive vehicles, making it a compelling choice for those who want high-end quality without the hefty price.

A Bold Design for a Bold Statement

The first thing you’ll notice about the XUV700 Black Edition is its striking design. With a Napoli Black exterior, blacked-out 18-inch wheels, and a stealthy black grille, this SUV exudes an air of exclusivity. Designed by Pratap Bose, the Chief Design Officer at Mahindra, the Black Edition draws inspiration from other luxury brands like Volvo’s XC90 Black Edition, giving it an undeniable prestige factor.

This is a vehicle that fits right into Melbourne’s upmarket Armadale, where luxury cars are a dime a dozen. The XUV700 doesn’t just blend in—it stands out, bringing a touch of sophistication to an otherwise elite lineup of vehicles.

Interior Luxury That Defies Expectations

Step inside the XUV700 Black Edition, and you’ll be blown away by the premium interior—something you’d expect from a vehicle that costs twice the price. Sunlight floods the cabin through the expansive glass roof, which stretches almost the full length of the car, making the space feel open and airy. The black upholstery adds a sense of refinement, while the real leather on the steering wheel and gear shifter feels luxurious to the touch.

The dual 10.25-inch screens that span from behind the steering wheel to the center of the dash create a sleek, tech-forward atmosphere, elevating the entire driving experience. And with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, syncing your smartphone has never been easier—just place it on the wireless charger, and the car handles the rest.

Tech Features That Rival Premium Brands

The Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition isn’t just about looks; it’s packed with advanced technology that you won’t typically find in vehicles at this price point. For instance, the flush door handles pop out automatically when unlocked, mimicking features found on high-end models like Range Rover. And once inside, the driver’s seat automatically adjusts to your preferred position, complete with memory settings for both the seat and the electric rear-vision mirrors—ideal for shared ownership or family use.

But the luxury doesn’t stop there. The front seats are ventilated, making them perfect for hot Aussie days, and the XUV700 can comfortably seat seven people—a rare feature in this segment. The third-row seating is easy to access, thanks to the one-touch fold-forward functionality of the second row, and there are even air-conditioning vents back there to ensure all passengers are comfortable.

And let’s not forget the sound system—12 speakers powered by Sony, delivering rich bass and crisp highs that will make you feel like you’re in a concert hall rather than an SUV.

Driving Experience: Smooth, Powerful, and Safe

The XUV700 doesn’t just look the part—it drives the part too. Thanks to its independent rear suspension, the ride quality is smooth and refined, rivaling some of the best in the segment. The six-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless shifting, while the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine provides ample power for any driving situation.

The XUV700 also comes loaded with advanced safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and a 360-degree surround-view camera, making it as safe as it is stylish. Plus, the Smart Pilot Assist, which offers semi-autonomous driving features, ensures you have an extra layer of convenience on longer journeys.

A Legacy of Reliability

Mahindra may seem like a new player in the Australian market, but the company has been building reliable vehicles for decades. Known for producing tractors, SUVs, and off-road vehicles, Mahindra’s heritage dates back to 1947. In Australia, the brand is here to stay with 75 dealers and counting.

The XUV700 Black Edition also comes with a seven-year, 150,000 km warranty and seven years of roadside assistance, ensuring that Mahindra is putting its money where its mouth is when it comes to reliability.

In fact, the brand demonstrated its durability in 2023 by setting a new record for the “fastest crossing by a production vehicle of the Simpson Desert” with a near-stock Scorpio SUV—proving that Mahindra is not just about luxury, but about toughness too.

Democratizing Luxury

What’s truly exciting about the Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition is that it’s making luxury accessible. In the same way that accessible luxury brands have made sophisticated fashion, spacious kitchens, and great escapes available to a wider audience, the XUV700 is opening the door to high-end driving experiences for the everyday Australian.

Back on High Street in Armadale, where luxury cars are the norm, the Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition makes a bold statement. It may not carry the weight of a Porsche or Rolls-Royce, but it delivers all the essentials of luxury—style, comfort, tech, and safety—at a price that is, frankly, too good to ignore.

For just $43,990, the XUV700 Black Edition offers a driving experience that’s both luxurious and affordable, challenging the notion that a high-end vehicle has to come with a six-figure price tag.

In short, Mahindra is doing for cars what accessible luxury brands have done for fashion: making luxury something that everyone can experience, without the eye-watering price tag.