Mahindra cars in India (17)

Go for the Tata Safari turbo-petrol. It is far more suited as a seven-seater than the Mahindra XUV 7XO, due to a more spacious third row. Also, the Sierra's touchscreen and user interface are far simpler than the Mahindra's, which can feel a bit overwhelming, at least initially.

While we haven't extensively tested the Safari turbo-petrol, expect single-digit fuel efficiency in urban conditions. It is expected of such a large SUV. If running costs matter, then you could consider the diesel version instead. 

Relatively smaller and easier to drive 7-seater options are the Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens Clavis, which come with turbo-petrol and diesel automatic options.

Unfortunately, you won't get a Mahindra XUV 7XO automatic in your budget, and the most affordable variant is around Rs 20 lakh on road. 

The Mahindra Thar Roxx MX3 petrol AT 2WD will fit in your budget, and if that's the SUV you desire, you should go for it. You're right in saying it has just the basic features, but that still includes a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and many other creature comforts. 

Plus, the combination of petrol engine and torque converter automatic is smooth and punchy - if a little heavy on fuel consumption. 

While all three compact SUVs are impressive in their own separate ways, your best bet here is the Skoda Kylaq. Its 1.0 TSI engine and 6-speed automatic combination is smooth, which should come in handy around town. It's also very spacious and comfortable, and even quite a lot of fun to drive. When you go out on the highway, it's reassuringly stable and rides comfortably, too. 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO has many of these traits too, but its engine, while powerful, isn't as smooth, refined or efficient as the Skoda's, and it has a tiny boot. The Sonet is starting to show its age, and its rear seat is very cramped. Plus, around town, its DCT gearbox can be quite jerky, and ride quality is firm too.

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza AT VXI is a sensible choice, though it's a bit out of your budget. The Brezza isn't exciting to drive, but it delivers reasonable performance and fuel economy and also scores well for ride comfort. The cabin is also practical and roomy. 

If you want something more exciting, you have the option of the Mahindra XUV 3XO Petrol AT MX3, the Skoda Kylaq AT Signature, and the Maruti Suzuki Fronx Turbo AT Zeta. The 3XO feels strong and offers the most room for five passengers, if that's a requirement. 

The Skoda Kylaq is most enjoyable to drive thanks to its fun handling and punchy engine. Maruti's Fronx Turbo strikes a good balance between performance and fuel economy.  

The Mahindra Bolero Neo is a rugged, ladder-frame-based SUV renowned for its robust build quality. However, it's not the best option for long road trips as its on-road ride quality is quite bouncy. The ride comfort is not on par with modern, monocoque SUVs, and the seats aren't supportive enough for long durations.

If you are looking for a more comfortable and refined alternative, consider the base Kia Carens Premium (O) diesel-MT, priced at Rs 12.77 lakh (ex-showroom). 

The Mahindra XUV 7XO is a good option to consider. It is spacious, comfortable and has a smooth ride quality. The XUV 7XO comes with trick new 'Da Vinvi' dampers and hydraulic bump stops. This elevates its ride comfort above the older XUV700. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is refined and has a good amount of power at 203hp, and the 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox is smooth.

The XUV 7XO is well equipped with safety features like multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, Level 2 ADAS features and more. The top-spec AX7 Luxury variant also gets features like a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, three 12.3-inch touchscreens, connected car tech, ventilated front and middle row of seats and much more. 

Although the Mahindra XUV 7XO is yet to receive a safety rating. But the older XUV700 had received 5 stars in the Global NCAP crash tests back in 2021, which bodes well for the XUV 7XO too.

Of the two, the Mahindra XUV 7XO is the better pick. The XUV 7XO is packed with tech and is far nicer to drive than the MG Hector, too. Mahindra's engines and gearboxes are highlights, and the 7XO's updated suspension also gives it the edge in ride comfort. Importantly, the 7XO offers a better third-row experience than the Hector Plus. 

That said, the XUV 7XO is not the best 7-seater for the money. Especially in case the third row space and comfort are a deal breaker for you. The Tata Safari offers a more comfortable third row among petrol/diesel SUVs of the segment. 

If you are open to electric, the Mahindra XEV 9S is worth a look. While you could think of it as an all-electric version of the XUV 7XO, the 9S does boast of a better third row. The option to slide its middle row seats makes all the difference to balance second and third row space in the cabin.