Mahindra & Mahindra will soon update three of its popular SUVs – Thar (3-door), XUV700 and Scorpio N. While the updated Thar is likely to arrive towards the end of this year, the facelifts of the XUV700 and Scorpio N might hit roads early next year. The 2026 Mahindra XUV700 facelift is expected to receive subtle design changes and feature upgrades, while retaining the existing engine setup.

Also Read: Top 3 Mahindra SUVs in 2026 – EV, Hybrid & Next-Gen Models

As of now, its major rivals include Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus and Hyundai Alcazar. In the next couple of years, there will be four new SUVs from Hyundai, Kia, Renault and Nissan further challenging the dominance of the XUV700 in the premium three-row SUV segment.

2026 Mahindra XUV700 Facelift – What to Expect?

Spy images indicate that the updated XUV700 will derive some design elements from the XEV 9e electric SUV. Upfront, it will feature a new grille with more slanted vertical slats, redesigned LED headlamps, new signature LED DRLs and revised lower section. Minimal changes are expected on the side and rear profiles.

Inside, the 2026 Mahindra XUV700 facelift will get a triple screen setup, borrowed from the XEV 9e. The SUV could be equipped with a Harman/Kardon sound system along with a bunch of new features. The 200PS, 2.0L turbo petrol and 155PS, 2.0L diesel engines will be carried over without changes.

2026 Mahindra XUV700 – Upcoming Brand-New Rivals

Hyundai and Kia have planned new 7-seater SUVs for India, slated to arrive in 2027. Interestingly, both SUVs will feature a new strong hybrid powertrain. Hyundai and Kia are expected to electrify their tried-and-tested 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine.

Codenamed, Hyundai Ni1i 7-seater SUV will sit between the Alcazar and Tucson SUVs in the company’s product lineup. It will be produced at Hyundai’s Talegaon facility. Kia’s new 7-seater SUV (codenamed Kia MQ4i) will be based on the globally sold Sorento SUV, and will borrow several design cues and features from it.

Similarly, Renault and Nissan are ready to introduce the Mahindra XUV700 rival SUVs in late 2026 or 2027. Renault’s 7-seater SUV will be based on the third-gen Duster, which recently made its global debut as the Renault Boreal. Nissan will introduce its re-badged version of the Boreal, but with a different design language.