I’m planning to buy a new car with a budget of around ₹25 lakhs. My requirement is a three-row (6-7 seater) vehicle with captain seats in the second row and an automatic petrol transmission. Currently, I’m deciding between the Mahindra XUV700 AX7L and the Toyota Innova Hycross GX(O). My daily usage is relatively low (up to 25 km per day), with occasional long road trips about 3-4 times a year. I intend to keep the car for around 4-5 years before upgrading. Additionally, I would prefer a vehicle that is available for delivery as soon as possible.

The right choice essentially boils down to your priorities. If the driving experience and general feel-good factor are important to you, the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX7 L has more to offer. The 200hp petrol engine is strong and refined, and delivers an enjoyable drive experience. The 6-speed AT gearbox that's well in tune with the engine's character and well-balanced ride and handling also easily makes the XUV 7XO a better driver's car. Mahindra has also gone to town with features on the XUV 7XO, and elements like the triple screen layout do add a wow factor to the cabin. 

On the flipside, the 7XO isn't the best vehicle for 6/7 passengers. The middle row seats don't slide fore and aft, so there's no way to balance space for the third row of occupants. Space in the last row is tight, and there's also very limited luggage room with all seats up. 

The Toyota Innova Hycross with the 2.0-litre petrol engine does little to excite. Sure, engine refinement is good, and performance is pleasant, but the CVT gearbox really takes away from the experience. Fuel economy is also very poor (to be fair, the XUV 7XO petrol is also poor on efficiency). Also, the GX(O) is a mid-spec variant of the Hycross. 

The interior looks and the fabric upholstery are not in keeping with a vehicle of this price. Where the Innova Hycross excels is in seating comfort and space. The second row is flexible, and there's loads of room even in the last row. It's easily the comfiest vehicle on long distance journeys. Further, the Hycross also offers reasonable space for luggage with all seats up. 

An alternative you could consider is the all-electric Mahindra XEV 9S. It has all the wow factor of the XUV 7XO and also adds in seating flexibility with sliding middle row seats. Other highlights include refinement and strong power. The XEV 9S offers more than enough range for your daily drives and, if you choose a route with ample charging stations on the way, can also be used as a long-distance vehicle.