I am a proud owner of a Renault Duster, which has now completed 9 years. The car is solid and running well, but I am thinking of upgrading. I really like my Duster. My monthly driving is around 600km. Should I wait for the new Duster or consider the XUV 7XO?

Autocar India

•11w

You are not alone in your interest in the new Renault Duster. The original Duster has a loyal fan base, and many owners like you are keen on the new model. While we are yet to drive it, the new Duster promises the same robust build and tough suspension that differentiated the original model. The interior will also retain the hardy character, though modern features will make it a nicer place to be.

What remains a question mark for now is the powertrains. The new Duster will not be offered with a diesel engine, and the only options will be a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol. How these engines work with the Duster is something we'll only know when we drive the SUV in the latter part of January 2026. Stay tuned for our review!

As for the Mahindra XUV 7XO, it's essentially an updated version of the current XUV700. The model will get a new look and feature upgrades, like a three-screen layout on top versions. The powertrains will be carried forward from the XUV 700, which is no bad thing because Mahindra's petrol and diesel engines are very impressive. Just how good the package is is something we'll know in early January over our test drive. Again, do stay tuned for the review!

Do note, the Duster and XUV 7XO sit in different segments. The XUV 7XO is significantly larger, will be roomier and also offers a third row of seats. The Duster, on the other hand, will be easier to live with in congested city conditions by virtue of its smaller size. PS - A three-row version of the Duster is also being readied for India for launch later in the year.

Explore cars mentioned

Mahindra

XUV700

from ₹15.86 Lakh

Mahindra

XUV 7XO

from ₹15.87 Lakh

Renault

Duster

from ₹12.23 Lakh

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Latest questions people are discussing

Ritz

•4d

I am looking to buy an SUV (with good ground clearance) which is fun to drive. For me, good mileage, a good audio system and a big boot space (for 3 big suitcases for a holiday trip) are important. My need is for a family of five. My overall usage is mainly city driving in Bangalore with occasional highway usage. I currently own a Ciaz Diesel and am looking to replace it. I intend to own the next vehicle for at least 7-10 years, hence it should not be too outdated technology-wise. I am open to EV’s, too. My budget is around ₹20-25 lakh (might stretch till ₹30 lakh if it's a really better option).

Autocar India

•19h

Considering your requirements, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option for you. It gets the option of a smooth, refined and punchy diesel engine that is efficient, a very good audio system and a huge boot if you fold down the third row. Since you are a family of five, the third row can be folded away for most parts and be used as a huge boot. The 7XO is also packed with the latest tech and features, so you have the latest ADAS Level 2, responsive screens with app support and OTA updates and a modern powertrain too.What's also nice is the performance of the petrol engine. It is responsive and refined, and in the city, the cabin insulation is excellent, making it a lot more comfortable. The suspension, too, has been revamped with the update from 700 to 7XO and is a big jump from what it was before.As an all-round package, the Mahindra XUV 7XO would be our recommendation, and it will also fit well in your budget.

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Nano

•3d

I am looking for an upgrade. Does it make sense to buy the 3XO, coming from a Honda City? Please suggest. (Also open to other options)

Autocar India

•2d

If an upgrade necessarily means a larger car for you, the Mahindra 3XO won't be the right move after a Honda City. You'd be best served by midsized SUVs, which measure between 4.3 and 4.5m. Of the current crop of mid-sized SUVs, the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra are the best-rounded. The new-gen Renault Duster that launches on March 17 also has promise.If vehicle size isn't a dealbreaker, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is a good pick. It's got powerful petrol engines, feels solid, and ride and handling are also impressive. The interior is also spacious for what is a compact SUV, and higher-spec versions pack in loads of equipment too. In fact, a fully-loaded 3XO is better equipped than a fully-loaded City.Within the compact SUV segment, you could also consider the Hyundai Venue, which is a well-rounded package.

Pramod Kumar

I am planning to upgrade from Baleno to either the Sierra, Thar Roxx or 7XO. My driving would be 70% city and 30% highway. Please advise me on the best pick.

Autocar India

•2d

The Tata Sierra is the most practical option for you. It has a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and a punchy petrol engine. What helps its case in the city, especially compared to the other two, is the compact dimensions that make it easy to park and manage in traffic. The turbo-petrol engine with the DCT would be our recommendation as the naturally aspirated version lacks performance. The automatic gearbox is smooth, the engine is refined, and the ride comfort is excellent. It is also fresh on the inside with the latest tech and features.However, if you have a big family and a third row is a must, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option. It has a strong and refined petrol engine, and it also has a comfy ride. But you will have to manage its size in the city, and it will not be as easy as the Sierra.The Mahindra Thar Roxx is not as comfortable as the Tata Sierra or the XUV 7XO. It has a lot of character in its design, but lacks the plush ride of the Sierra and the premiumness of the 7XO. If you don't venture off the tarmac or don't do much off-roading, best to avoid the Roxx. The Sierra would be a good fit overall.

Tata Sierra

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Mahindra Thar Roxx

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