Ever since it was unveiled, automotive artists have been busy creating their own versions of XUV700
A spiritual successor to XUV500, the larger and better equipped XUV700 was launched in August. It’s expected that XUV700 will soon enter the list of Mahindra’s current bestsellers such as Thar, Bolero and Scorpio. The SUV gets top marks for its design and packs in a range of segment-first and best-in-class features. Another plus is the competitive price, which starts from just Rs 12 lakhs, ex-sh.
Mahindra XUV700 4×4 off-road variant render
While Thar has been a true-blue off-roader and has gotten even better with the new-gen model, XUV700 is unlikely to have similar capabilities in its current form. To bridge the gap, automotive artist Pratyush Rout has come up with an off-road version of XUV700. This render is focused on functional updates that significantly enhance the SUV’s off-roading capabilities. The core design elements have been retained in their original form.
At the front, XUV700 off-road variant gets a massive skid plate. The bumper is now much larger and comes with sturdy looking twin tow hooks. It replaces the air dam that can be seen with the stock variant. Skid plates have also been added to side skirts.
Another key update is four high-power halogen lamps. These are mounted just below the front grille. Visibility is further improved with an additional set of LED lights mounted on the roof. Fog lamps are much larger as compared to that of stock variant.
At the sides, XUV700 off-road version gets massive wheel arches. These are done in a dual-tone colour theme of matte black with piano black outlining and accents. Small reflectors have been added for a sportier look and feel.
Original alloy wheels have been replaced with rugged looking steel wheels. Stock tyres have been replaced with chunkier units that look larger and wider. The off-roader also gets functional roof rails.
In other updates, the SUV gets larger, vertically aligned rear view mirrors. For unhindered air supply, a snorkel has been added to the left side of the SUV. This is one of the most important functional updates for XUV700 off-road variant.
A snorkel significantly increases the vehicle’s water wading capacity. It ensures that the vehicle can remain partly submerged for longer durations without losing engine power. A snorkel also comes handy when negotiating dirty and muddy tracks. Mahindra has been making vehicles for the Indian Army as well as others for many years. Will we get to see the new Mahindra XUV700 in Army Green colour in the future?
XUV700 engine
Updates introduced for XUV700 off-road variant will make it a bit heavier. However, it may not have a significant impact on performance. XUV700 has been equipped with powerful engines that can easily handle some additional weight.
There are two engine options for XUV700. The 2.0-litre turbo petrol motor is capable of generating 200 PS of max power at 5,000 rpm and 380 Nm of peak torque at 1,750-3,000 rpm. The 2.2 litre turbo diesel unit makes 185 PS at 3500 rpm. Torque output is 420 Nm with manual and 450 Nm with automatic transmission. Both engines are mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
