by Kelly Fisher
The Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition isn’t here to shout for attention – and that’s exactly why it’s so striking. In a sea of chrome-plated competitors vying for your gaze with garish styling, Mahindra’s decision to go sleek, dark, and understated feels like a bold move in itself. This is confidence, not arrogance. It’s an SUV that knows exactly what it’s doing and doesn’t need to overcompensate.
The Black Edition’s exterior treatment is all about subtle power. The gloss-black grille and matching accents give it a purposeful stance, while the dark alloy wheels and blacked-out badging seal the deal. It’s the kind of design that turns heads without trying too hard.
On the road, the XUV700 Black Edition felt composed and capable. The suspension smoothed out bumps with ease, making for a comfortable drive whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The 2.2-litre diesel engine, while occasionally exhibiting a touch of turbo lag, proved perfectly up to the task of daily errands, school runs, and even the occasional work commute. It’s not a powerhouse, but it doesn’t need to be—it’s practical, reliable, and delivers what you need for the realities of everyday life.
Inside, the cabin is a continuation of that restrained sophistication. It’s not trying to overwhelm you with gimmicks or overload you with features you don’t need. Instead, it’s a thoughtful space designed around simplicity and comfort. The dual-tone dashboard is clean and contemporary, while the digital driver display and infotainment system are large enough to make a statement without being gaudy. Both screens measure in at a generous 10.25 inches and the system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto when wired. The seven-seat configuration is a standout feature, adding a layer of practicality for families or anyone needing extra flexibility. Even with all three rows in use, the space is thoughtfully designed to keep passengers comfortable.
The XUV700 Black Edition has substance where it counts. You’ve got a choice between two punchy engines: the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol delivering 149 kW and 380 Nm, or the 2.2-litre diesel that comes in two variants, the more powerful of which kicks out 136 kW and 450 Nm when paired with the automatic gearbox. These engines are backed by either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, and the diesel option even comes with a Dynamic Mode selector to tailor performance to your driving style.
Safety? Covered. Seven airbags, ESP with rollover mitigation, and even a 360-degree camera. This SUV isn’t just about looking good—it’s about making sure you and your passengers feel secure, too.
For all its style, sophistication, and substance, the XUV700 Black Edition starts at just R529,000. The top-spec AWD diesel variant is R670,000. That’s good value for money in a segment where others would charge a premium just for the privilege of owning something that looks this good.
The Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition is for people who want their SUV to stand out—not because it’s flashy, but because it’s quietly confident. It’s a statement vehicle for those who know that less is often more. For me, it was a joy to drive, practical with its seven seats, and versatile enough to handle everything from work commutes to the daily grind with ease.