Mahindra’s flagship SUV, the XUV700, has been spotted undergoing road tests under heavy camouflage, indicating that a mid-cycle facelift is in development. Although most of the body styling appears similar to the current model, several changes hint at a refreshed design philosophy and potential technological upgrades.

According to visuals captured during road testing, the test mule features redesigned projector headlamps accompanied by round-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs). These alterations suggest Mahindra is experimenting with improved headlight throw and a more modern appearance. Additionally, a new front grille featuring vertically slanted slats further differentiates this version from the current XUV700.

Cosmetic and tech upgrades on the horizon

The refreshed front fascia aligns with Mahindra’s attempt to maintain a stronghold in the competitive D-segment SUV space, which includes rivals offering advanced features. The camouflaged prototype hints at possible future enhancements, such as:

• Triple-screen infotainment and driver display setup
• A new dashboard design potentially inspired by Mahindra’s XUV.e9 concept
• Premium features like rear ottoman seats, digital key access, auto park assist
• Upgraded Harman sound system
  

These expected additions are part of Mahindra’s effort to keep the XUV700 technologically competitive.

Powertrain options and hybrid speculation

Under the hood, the facelifted XUV700 is likely to retain the current powertrain options, including:

• A 2.0L turbo petrol engine producing 197 BHP and 380 Nm of torque
• A 2.2L turbo diesel motor generating 182 BHP and 450 Nm of torque
  

However, speculation is rife that Mahindra might introduce a new hybrid variant or even a plug-in hybrid powertrain with the updated model, as part of its broader push toward sustainable mobility. No official confirmation has been provided, but such a move would align with evolving industry trends.

Competitive pressure drives evolution

Mahindra has consistently performed well in the D-segment with products like the Thar Roxx, Scorpio N, and Scorpio Classic. However, with competition intensifying, especially from newer entrants, this facelift of the XUV700 seems aimed at reinforcing Mahindra’s position in the premium SUV market.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has officially introduced two new high-performance motorcycles in the Indian market—the CB750 Hornet and the CB1000 Hornet SP. These additions to Honda’s premium lineup aim to tap into the growing demand for performance bikes among Indian riders.

Pricing and availability

The CB750 Hornet is priced at Rs 8,59,500 (ex-showroom), while the CB1000 Hornet SP comes at a premium Rs 12,35,900 (ex-showroom). The former will be accessible through both BigWing and BigWing Topline dealerships, while the latter will be available exclusively at BigWing Topline outlets across the country. Deliveries for both models are expected to start in June 2025, and bookings are already open.

Engine and performance specs

The CB750 Hornet is powered by a newly designed 755cc, inline twin-cylinder engine that delivers 90.51 hp and 75 Nm of torque. In contrast, the CB1000 Hornet SP features a more powerful 999cc inline four-cylinder DOHC engine, producing 155 hp and 107 Nm of torque. Both models come mated with a 6-speed gearbox equipped with assist and slipper clutch technology for smoother gear transitions.

Braking and safety

Braking duties on the CB1000 Hornet SP are handled by dual 310mm front discs with Brembo radial-mount calipers, along with a 240mm rear disc. The CB750 Hornet is fitted with 296mm dual front discs and a 240mm rear disc. Both motorcycles feature dual-channel ABS to enhance safety during braking.

Official statements

At the launch event, HMSI’s Managing Director and CEO Tsutsumu Otani emphasized the growing interest in premium motorcycles among young Indian riders. He noted that the new Hornets are designed to deliver a blend of performance, style, and Honda’s renowned engineering.

Yogesh Mathur, Director of Sales and Marketing at HMSI, highlighted that the Hornet brand holds strong emotional value for motorcycle enthusiasts. According to him, the introduction of the CB750 and CB1000 Hornet SP elevates the Hornet’s legacy by combining modern technology, signature design, and an assertive road presence.

China-based technology major Xiaomi has launched its latest electric vehicle (EV), the Xiaomi YU7, marking a bold step into the SUV segment. The new electric SUV is positioned as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y in the Chinese market. It stands out with its high-performance capabilities, luxury design, and next-generation technological features, strengthening Xiaomi’s foothold in the EV space following its earlier releases, the SU7 sedan and SU7 Ultra.

Powerful specs and high-range battery

At the heart of the Xiaomi YU7 is the Xiaomi Super Motor V6s Plus, capable of producing 690 PS and achieving a top speed of 253 kmph. It uses CTB integrated battery technology, allowing the entry-level Standard variant to claim a CLTC range of 835km with a 96.3kWh battery. The Pro and Max variants offer 760km and 770km ranges respectively.

Built on an 800V high-voltage platform with silicon carbide tech, the YU7 supports ultra-fast charging—10 to 80 percent in just 12 minutes, and 620km of range in 15 minutes.

Aerodynamic design and luxurious interiors

The YU7 carries forward the aesthetic of the SU7, featuring “waterdrop headlights” and an evolved front fascia. It achieves a drag coefficient of Cd 0.245, aided by 10 air channels and 19 vents, contributing to a 59km range enhancement. With dimensions of 4,999 x 1,996 x 1,600mm, it offers a 3,000mm wheelbase and a 2,405kg curb weight.

Its cabin mimics Ferrari Purosangue’s layout and is wrapped in Nappa leather with soft-touch surfaces. Front seats offer zero-gravity positioning, massage functions, and reclining features, while the rear seats are designed with 135-degree recliners.

Advanced infotainment and assisted driving features

The cabin hosts a Dual-Zone Surround Luxury Cabin philosophy and introduces the Xiaomi HyperVision Panoramic Display. This comprises a triple Mini LED setup that projects real-time driving and navigation data onto the windshield.

The system runs on a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and an Nvidia Drive AGX Thor platform, delivering 700 TOPS of computing power for enhanced assisted driving. Integrated LiDAR, 4D millimeter-wave radar, and seven cameras support advanced safety and automation.

Practicality meets performance

With 1,970 litres of total storage capacity, including a 141-litre frunk, the YU7 meets practical needs. Suspension features include front double wishbone and rear five-link setups, air springs, and smart chassis controls, allowing five adjustable height levels and up to 222mm ground clearance.

Xiaomi claims the YU7 has undergone over 50 passive safety tests and meets all C-NCAP and C-IASI crash standards.

Availability and options

Sales of the Xiaomi YU7 will begin in July in China, though pricing is yet to be revealed. It will be offered in three variants—Standard, Pro, and Max—and in three exterior colors: Emerald Green, Titanium Silver, and Lava Orange, and three interior tones: Pine Gray, Coral Orange, and Twilight Blue.