XUV700 Rivals: The 7-seater SUV market in India is heating up. Mahindra’s XUV700 set the bar for tech, space and value in this segment, and now several global and homegrown brands are preparing new three-row models that could challenge it. Below, I break down the three most important upcoming 7-seaters that buyers and XUV700 owners should watch, explain what each brings to the table, compare their expected specs and price targets, and give a quick market read on how this will change the segment.
Table of Contents
XUV700 Rivals: expected/reported
| Factor | Renault Boreal (7-seater) | Mahindra XEV 7e (3-row EV) | Hyundai 7-seater (rumoured) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch window (India) | ~Mid-2026 (reported) | 2026 (spied; reported) | 2026+ (rumours / planning) |
| Powertrains | Petrol / likely hybrid options (reporting unclear) | EV – 59 kWh & 79 kWh rumors; RWD standard, dual-motor AWD higher trims possible. | Petrol / turbo / hybrid likely (Hyundai trend) |
| Expected price band (India) | ₹17–26 lakh (on-road estimates in reports) | Premium EV price -depends on battery; likely over ₹20 lakh for long-range variants (speculative) | ₹18–27 lakh (early estimates in press) – depends on positioning. |
| USP | Global features + Renault pricing strategy | First credible 7-seater EV from Mahindra; AWD and long range | Hyundai quality and dealer/service network; modern tech & hybrid options |
XUV700 Rivals: 1. Renault Boreal
The Boreal is Renault’s large global SUV (a three-row model in its global family) that auto outlets expect Renault to bring to India as a premium but aggressively priced competitor to the XUV700 Rivals and Tata Safari. Early reporting says Renault plans a mid-2026 India introduction with a strong value play.
Why could it threaten the XUV700?
- Feature-loaded: Renault is expected to kit the Boreal with high-tech and convenience features at a competitive price — a strategy the brand has used previously.
- Price expectations: Early estimates put on-road prices in the broad ₹17–26 lakh bracket for India (city and variant dependent), which would put it squarely against XUV700’s mainstream variants.
2) Mahindra’s XEV 7e (3-row EV)
Mahindra is developing a three-row electric SUV, sometimes referred to in leaks as the XEV 7e — intended to sit above the XEV 9e in Mahindra’s EV lineup. Reports show multiple battery options and even dual-motor AWD possibilities for higher trims. Launch windows cited in spied test reports point to 2026.
Why it could disrupt
- EV capability: If Mahindra ships a 7-seater EV with a long-range battery (public reports mention 59 kWh / 79 kWh speculations) and RWD/AWD options, that’s a direct alternative for buyers open to electrification. That’s a segment first at this scale in India.
- Brand fit: Mahindra already owns strong SUV DNA in India (Thar, Scorpio, XUV family). An EV three-row with credible off-road/utility credentials could convert existing Mahindra loyalists who want greener drivetrains.
3) Hyundai’s future 7-seater
Hyundai currently sells the Alcazar as a compact 3-row; however, reporting suggests Hyundai may launch a larger/next-level three-row to better match the XUV700 Rivals segment, potentially a new nameplate rather than a simple Alcazar update.
Why it could matter
- Product polish: Hyundai’s strengths are design, interior fit/finish and strong dealer/service reach — a larger Hyundai three-row with modern engines and hybrid options would be a sensible, compelling rival.
- Expected tech mix: Expect Hyundai to offer a loaded infotainment package, ADAS features and comfortable packaging aimed at family buyers.
Conclusion
The near future (2026 onward) looks like a win for buyers. Multiple new 3-row SUVs from established makers plus a likely three-row EV will mean more choice, better tech for the money, and pressure on incumbents like the XUV700 to either refresh or become more aggressively priced. If you’re in the market for a family SUV, the smart move is to wait for official spec sheets and TDs from Renault, Mahindra and Hyundai before committing.
Bhakti Rawat is a Founder & Writer of InsureMyCar360.com. This site Provides You with Information Related To the Best Auto Insurance Updates & comparisons. 🔗