Mahindra XUV700

The Mahindra XUV700 is a three-row SUV that shook up its segment by offering big-car space, strong engines and a long features list at prices that undercut pricier rivals. Available in five- and seven-seat layouts with petrol or diesel power, it pairs genuine performance with driver-assistance tech rarely seen at this money. It is roomy, fast and well-equipped, though build quality and software polish still trail the established benchmarks.

On the road the XUV700 feels muscular. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol pushes out close to 197bhp, and the 2.2-litre diesel is a strong, flexible unit that suits long highway runs. Both engines come with a slick six-speed automatic that, while not the quickest-shifting unit around, suits the relaxed nature of the car. Ride quality is mostly absorbent, soaking up broken roads well, though there is a slight float at speed and body roll is noticeable when you push through corners.

Inside, the cabin is the headline act. Twin 10.25-inch screens, an optional panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a Sony sound system and Mahindra's AdrenoX software give it a genuinely premium feel. The Level 2 ADAS suite, with adaptive cruise and lane-keep assist, was a segment first in India. Space in the first two rows is excellent, though the third row is best reserved for children or short trips, and accessing it takes some effort.

The XUV700 isn't flawless. Cabin plastics and panel fit don't always match the price, and the infotainment, while feature-rich, can lag or throw up the occasional glitch. Diesel models can get vocal under hard acceleration, and the fuel economy is only average for the class. Service experiences vary by city, and some early cars had niggles that have largely been ironed out in later batches.

Where it wins decisively is value. You get more power, more equipment and more presence per rupee than almost anything else with three rows. It earned a 5-star Global NCAP rating, which adds real peace of mind for family buyers. For someone who wants a do-it-all SUV without stepping up to far costlier badges, the XUV700 makes a compelling case.