Mahindra’s 2025 XUV700 Black Edition promises a unique blend of rugged reliability and modern comfort, tailored for the challenges of Australian roads. To put this seven-seater SUV to the ultimate test, we embarked on an epic 1,104-kilometre round trip from Melbourne to Mildura and back, all in a single day.

With a mix of highways, gravel tracks, and unexpected detours, this wasn’t just a test for the car—it was a gruelling challenge for its drivers too.

A 5:30 AM Start: First Impressions

The day began under the dim glow of a Melbourne spring morning. At 5:30 AM, we set off, bleary-eyed but eager to see how the XUV700 Black Edition would handle the demands of a high-mileage journey.

The goal was ambitious: cover over 1,100 kilometres in one day, with minimal stops for fuel, food, and the occasional coffee break. This endurance test offered a unique opportunity to scrutinise the car’s performance, comfort, and features under real-world conditions.

Driving Comfort and ADAS: The Long-Haul Advantage

On long journeys, fatigue can be the enemy, but Mahindra’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) proved invaluable. Lane centring kept the car precisely in its lane, while adaptive cruise control maintained a safe following distance, even compensating for sudden cut-ins by other drivers. Unlike many systems that can feel intrusive or unpredictable, Mahindra’s implementation was smooth and reliable.

The attention to comfort extended beyond just the technology. The XUV700’s seats, equipped with adjustable lumbar support, provided all-day support, preventing backaches even after 13 hours on the road. Features like ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof further elevated the experience, offering a level of refinement that’s rare in this price bracket.

Fuel Economy: Efficient for Its Class

Throughout the journey, the XUV700 consistently delivered impressive fuel economy for a petrol-powered, seven-seat SUV. Initial readings on the highway hovered around 14.7 kilometres per litre (6.8 litres per 100 kilometres). As conditions varied—factoring in headwinds and higher speeds—the average settled at a respectable 8.3 litres per 100 kilometres over the course of the day.

For an SUV cruising at 110 kilometres per hour, this is a strong performance. The efficiency is aided by Mahindra’s 2.0-litre M-Stallion petrol engine, producing 149.2 kilowatts of power and 380 Newton-metres of torque. While front-wheel drive may limit its off-road ambitions, it’s more than adequate for highway cruising and light gravel tracks.

What’s Special About the XUV700 Black Edition?

The Black Edition of the Mahindra XUV700 is more than just a fresh coat of paint—it’s a thoughtful upgrade that enhances both the style and practicality of the SUV. At its heart is the striking Napoli Black paint, which exudes a premium aesthetic. The grille has been blacked out to match, creating a cohesive, bold look that stands out on Australian roads.

Inside, the Black Edition introduces an exclusive black interior trim — a first for the XUV700. This practical and stylish addition addresses a common preference among Australian buyers, who often favour darker interiors for durability and aesthetics.

Beyond the cosmetic updates, the Black Edition is loaded with features that elevate the driving experience. Ventilated seats keep the driver and front passenger cool during warm days, while the panoramic sunroof adds a sense of openness to the cabin. Wireless Apple CarPlay ensures seamless connectivity, and memory-linked mirror adjustments tied to the driver’s seat position make switching drivers hassle-free.

For touring or everyday driving, the inclusion of a full-size spare tyre underlines Mahindra’s focus on practicality—an essential feature for Australia’s harsh and remote conditions.

The Torture Begins: Lost in the Outback

No road trip is complete without its challenges, and ours came in the form of a missed turn that left us stranded in the middle of nowhere. With no mobile signal and dwindling fuel reserves, the XUV700 faced its most demanding test yet. Gravel roads stretched endlessly, and uncertainty loomed.

Yet, the SUV’s MRF Wanderer tyres performed admirably, maintaining grip and composure even on uneven surfaces. The full-size spare tyre provided peace of mind, although thankfully, we never needed it.

Eventually, we navigated our way back to a main road and resumed our journey. These moments underscored the importance of reliability and durability, especially in a vehicle designed for touring Australia’s remote regions.

Entertainment and Sound: Keeping Spirits High

On such a long drive, the Sony immersive 3D sound system was a constant companion. With speakers integrated into the roof, the system provided a surround-sound experience that made hours on the road more enjoyable. Adjusting the equaliser settings enhanced the audio clarity, and while the roof-mounted speakers weren’t flawless, the overall sound quality was a standout feature.

Music wasn’t the only source of entertainment. The wireless Apple CarPlay interface allowed seamless control of apps and playlists, keeping distractions to a minimum. For the passenger, the spacious interior and thoughtful amenities made reviewing videos and catching up on work comfortable and convenient.

Pricing: A Strong Value Proposition

At $43,990 drive-away, the Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition delivers exceptional value. It combines premium aesthetics, practical features, and impressive road manners in a package that undercuts many of its competitors. This pricing positions the XUV700 as an attractive option for families and road-trippers alike, offering versatility without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: A Torture Test Passed

After 13.5 hours and over 1,100 kilometres, the 2024 Mahindra XUV700 Black Edition emerged as a capable, comfortable, and reliable SUV.

From its fuel efficiency and advanced driver aids to its premium Black Edition upgrades, it proved itself well-suited for the diverse challenges of Australian roads. While no car is without its quirks, the XUV700 handled everything we threw at it with confidence.

For those seeking a seven-seat SUV that balances practicality, style, and affordability, the XUV700 Black Edition is well worth considering.

And if you’re looking for the best deals, head to CarSauce Buy, where our team is ready to assist. A big thank you to Mahindra for making this journey possible.