The Mahindra XUV700 has once again been caught testing, this time with a detail that has sparked big discussions the missing exhaust pipe. The spy shots have led many to believe that Mahindra could be quietly testing an electric version of its popular SUV. While the facelift is already in the works for its petrol and diesel models, this small but important detail hints at something much bigger.
A Familiar SUV With Fresh Design
Even though the test car was heavily camouflaged, it’s clear that Mahindra is planning some noticeable changes to the XUV700. From what we can see, the facelift will get a new front bumper, a redesigned grille, and sharper LED headlights with dual-projector units. Updated alloy wheels and a slightly revised rear with fresh tail lights are also expected. The side profile will remain largely the same, though Mahindra is likely to keep its signature flush door handles that have always given the SUV a premium feel. Overall, it looks like Mahindra is focusing on refining the design rather than completely changing it.
Cabin Inspired by Mahindra’s EV Tech
The inside of the facelifted XUV700 is shaping up to be much more advanced. Spy shots reveal a triple-screen setup one for the driver, one for the infotainment system, and another for the co-passenger. This design is very similar to what we have already seen in Mahindra’s upcoming electric SUVs like the XUV.e8. Other upgrades are expected too, including a premium Harman/Kardon sound system, an updated steering wheel with the illuminated Mahindra logo, and new upholstery materials. All these changes suggest that Mahindra wants the facelifted model to feel more upmarket and future-ready.
Petrol and Diesel Still on the Cards
For now, official reports suggest that Mahindra will continue offering the tried-and-tested 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines with the facelift. Both manual and automatic options should remain available, along with an AWD variant for those who want extra capability. So where does the EV angle come in? The missing exhaust on this test mule could be the biggest clue yet. It’s possible that Mahindra was testing early components of the upcoming XUV700 EV, codenamed XUV.e8, which is already confirmed to launch in the next couple of years.
The EV Possibility Gets Stronger
The XUV.e8 will be based on Mahindra’s new INGLO EV platform and is expected to launch in 2025 or 2026. It will come with a unique closed-off grille, special EV badging, and a digital-heavy cabin. The triple-screen layout spotted in the facelift test car lines up with what Mahindra has already showcased for its future electric SUVs. If the missing exhaust on this mule does indeed confirm EV testing, then we might be looking at an SUV that blends the best of both worlds the popular XUV700 design and modern electric performance.
Launch Timeline and What to Expect
The facelifted XUV700 in petrol and diesel versions is expected to launch first, possibly by late 2025 or early 2026. The electric XUV.e8 is likely to follow soon after, giving Mahindra a strong position in the fast-growing EV market. For now, the missing exhaust has only added fuel to the excitement. Whether it was just a test mule quirk or an actual hint of what’s to come, one thing is clear Mahindra has big plans for the XUV700, and fans are eagerly waiting.
The absence of an exhaust pipe may seem like a small detail, but it could be the clearest sign yet that Mahindra’s best-selling SUV is preparing to go electric. The facelift will refresh the design and cabin, but the real game-changer could be the XUV.e8 that follows. Either way, Mahindra seems ready to take the XUV700 into the future.