January 01, 2026

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Premium

MAHINDRA XUV700 REBORN AS XUV 7XO

MAHINDRA HAS launched the XUV700's successor, the XUV 7XO. The 7XO is based on the same platform as the 700, it continues with the same silhouette, and is essentially a facelift. The changes are evolutionary, with a larger grille, angular LED DRLs, and twin-pod headlamps up front. At the rear, it gets smoked LED taillamps, similar to those on the XEV 9S - the electric counterpart to the 7XO. The cabin has been thoroughly revamped with a triple-screen setup, standard across all variants. These displays are powered by upgraded processors, for faster and more complex processing. It gets ventilated seats for both rows, a powered co-driver seat with boss mode, retractable rear sunshades and an acoustic solar windscreen. Audio and visual output is handled by a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, paired with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Changes also include a new steering - taken from the XEV 9S, new aircon vents, updated upholstery with dual-tone theme and reprofiled seats. The XUV 7XO comes with the same powertrains as before - the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel making 185bhp and 450Nm (AT) of torque. The 2.0-litre mStallion petrol makes 200bhp and 380Nm of torque. Both engines are offered with manual and automatic transmission options, while the diesel is offered with AWD as an option. The XUV 7XO debuts DaVinci dampers, a new mechanical damper that offers superior damping over rough roads and on tarmac, essentially making the 7XO more capable off-road and better handling on tarmac, providing ride and handling comparable to electronically actuated systems. For the 7XO, Mahindra is offering six trim options, that differ slightly compared to those on the 700 starting from the base - AX, going up including the AX3, AX5, AX7, AX7 Tech and AX7 Luxury. The six-seater option is offered solely with the AX7 Tech and Luxury, while both these trims are offered with AWD option. Prices for the XUV 7XO start at Rs 13.66 lakh and go up to Rs 24.92 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-spec AX7 Luxury AWD.

VIDA DIRT.E K3: DIRT BIKING, NOW KID-FRIENDLY

VIDA HAS ENTERED AN exciting new space with the launch of the Dirt.E K3 in India, a purpose-built electric off-roader designed for kids aged 4 to 10. Priced at Rs 69,990 for the first 300 buyers, the Dirt.E K3 is aimed at giving young riders their very first taste of dirt biking; while keeping safety, adaptability and fun at the core. This model marks the debut of Vida's new Dirt.E off-road sub-brand and introduces a clever, size-adaptive platform rarely seen in this segment. The Dirt.E K3 features a three-stage adjustable frame that can be configured in small, medium or large settings using a single tool. By altering seat height and wheelbase, the bike is designed to grow with the child over several years, reducing the need for frequent upgrades, in a short period of time. Optional front and rear suspension components can also be added as the rider's skill level improves, which is a thoughtful addition for the growing off-road enthusiasts in IndiaPowering the Dirt.E K3 is a 350W continuous motor with a 500W peak output, paired with a 360Wh removable battery. Vida claims up to three hours of ride time, with a full charge taking around three hours using a standard home socket. The detachable battery is secured with a magnetic connector and housed in a sealed casing to protect it from dust and moisture. The bike offers three riding modes: Beginner (8kmph), Amateur (16kmph) and Pro (25kmph). Parents can monitor ride activity, limit speeds and lock modes via the VIDA app. Hardware includes 16-inch spoked wheels and a rear hydraulic disc brake, while safety features range from child-friendly brake levers and impact-absorbing elements to a magnetic lanyard kill switch. Developed jointly at Hero Tech Centre Germany and the Centre for Innovation and Technology in Jaipur, the Dirt.E K3 will be manufactured at Vida's Tirupati EV facility. The homegrown brand will commence sales from January 15, 2026. There are a total of four colour options on offer - Red, Purple and White.