KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Mahindra XUV 7XO leads the pack with cutting-edge tech, a triple-screen setup, and the most powerful engine options
- Hyundai Alcazar emerges as the most balanced SUV, focusing on comfort, refinement, and family-friendly features
- MG Hector Plus offers a feature-rich cabin and a large infotainment screen, making it strong on value and convenience
Mahindra has just launched the facelift of its popular SUV, the XUV 700, which is now regarded as XUV 7XO. It is the newest entrant in the SUV segment, and it goes up against some well-established rivals. Today, we stack the XUV 7XO against the Hyundai Alcazar and MG Hector to see how it compares in terms of design, features, performance, and overall value. Let's take a closer look at where the new Mahindra SUV stands among its competition. However, before getting into details, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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Design
Design is a highly subjective aspect; what I like, you might not, and vice versa. Each SUV here follows a distinct design approach, catering to different tastes. That said, if I had to pick one purely on design, it would be the Hyundai Alcazar. Its strong proportions, clean lines, and commanding road presence make it look the most mature and premium of the lot. The others have their own appeal, but the Safari stands out for its timeless SUV stance. You can pick yours, though.
Features
And this is where the real battle begins. While design may be subjective, features are far easier to compare on paper, and this is an area where the differences between these SUVs become far more evident. The Mahindra XUV 7XO clearly leads in terms of technology and innovation, standing out with its triple-screen setup, advanced connected tech, and a 540-degree camera system, making it the most tech-forward option in this group. The Hyundai Alcazar focuses strongly on comfort and family-oriented features, offering ventilated seats for multiple rows, flexible seating layouts, and a well-rounded safety package that includes Level 2 ADAS. Meanwhile, the MG Hector Plus prioritises infotainment and cabin experience, with its large 14-inch touchscreen, gesture controls, premium audio system, and versatile seating configurations.
| Feature | XUV 7XO | Alcazar | Hector Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Setup | Triple 12.3-inch HD screens | Dual 10.25-inch screens | 14-inch touchscreen |
| Android Auto / Apple CarPlay | Wireless | Wireless | Yes |
| Connected Tech | AdrenoX + Alexa (60+ functions) | Connected car tech | i-Smart system |
| Sunroof | Skyroof | Panoramic sunroof | Panoramic sunroof |
| Seat Ventilation | Front and second row seats | Front & second row (captain seats) | Front seats |
| Power Driver Seat | Yes (with memory) | Yes (with memory) | - |
| Seating Options | 7-seater | 6 and 7-seater | 5, 6 and 7-seater |
| ADAS | Level 2 | Level 2 | Level 2 |
| Camera System | 540-degree camera | 360-degree camera | 360-degree camera |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 (standard) | 6 |
| Premium Touches | Leatherette pack, DVR, air purifier | Boss mode, laptop tray | Gesture controls, Harman audio |
Powertrains
And this is where the conversation shifts from screens and comfort to what really moves these SUVs. The Mahindra XUV 7XO clearly leads in performance, offering bigger engines with significantly higher power and torque, making it the best choice for buyers who prioritise strong acceleration and effortless highway driving. The Hyundai Alcazar strikes a balance, focusing on smooth, efficient engines that are better suited for everyday use while still offering multiple gearbox options. Meanwhile, the MG Hector Plus is tuned for comfort, with its turbo-petrol setup delivering relaxed and easy-going performance rather than outright punch, making it ideal for calm city and highway cruising.
| SUV | Engine Options | Power | Torque | Transmission Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XUV 7XO | 2.0L turbo petrol 2.2L turbo diesel | 200 hp185 hp | 380 Nm450 Nm | Manual / Automatic |
| Alcazar | 1.5L turbo petrol/1.5L diesel | 160 PS116 PS | 253 Nm250 Nm | 6-MT, 7-DCT (petrol)6-MT, 6-AT (diesel) |
| Hector Plus | 1.5L turbo petrol | 141 bhp | 250 Nm | Manual / CVT |
Pricing
In terms of pricing, each SUV targets a slightly different buyer bracket. The Mahindra XUV 7XO is priced competitively, with prices starting at Rs 13.66 lakh (ex-showroom) and going up to Rs 22.47 lakh (ex-showroom) for the range-topping AX7L diesel-manual. The Hyundai Alcazar sits slightly higher, with prices beginning at Rs 14.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and extending up to around Rs 21.40 lakh (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, the MG Hector Plus positions itself as the most accessible option here, with introductory prices starting at Rs 11.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
| SUV | Starting Price (Ex-Showroom) | Top Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Mahindra XUV 7XO | Rs 13.66 lakh | Rs 22.47 lakh |
| Hyundai Alcazar | Rs 14.99 lakh | Rs 21.40 lakh |
| MG Hector Plus | Rs 11.99 lakh | Rs 18.99 lakh |
Read More: Mahindra XUV 7XO Launched At Rs. 13.66 Lakh (Ex-sh): Details Inside
Verdict
The Mahindra XUV 7XO makes a strong statement as the most tech-forward and performance-focused SUV in this comparison, appealing to buyers who prioritise features, safety tech, and powerful engines. The Hyundai Alcazar stands out as the most balanced and family-friendly option, offering comfort, refinement, and practicality in equal measure. Meanwhile, the MG Hector Plus remains a solid choice for those who value a feature-rich cabin and a comfortable driving experience at a relatively accessible price point. Ultimately, the right choice depends on what you value most: cutting-edge tech and performance, everyday comfort, or maximum features for the money.
