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Bentley previews its future with high-riding electric fastback

Bentley previews its future with high-riding electric fastback

The Advertiser09-07-2025
Bentley has shown off its first electric vehicle (EV) concept with the wild and adventurous EXP 15 'elevated sporting sedan', a preview of the look of upcoming showroom EVs from the automaker.
The company revealed the 5.4m-long behemoth as a full-size 'model' of its EV design direction, with the brand poised to introduce its first production EV to showrooms in 2026 after several delays.
There was no news on the electric powertrain underneath the EXP 15's skin, but the company said the concept was "conceived as having a fully electric, all-wheel drive powertrain with a long range and recharging speeds".
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
Despite its description as a sedan, the EXP 15 has only three doors – and three seats – with a body blending the elements of a traditional sedan, GT coupe and blocky, upright styling with the ride height of an SUV.
It's a radical departure from the design of the V8 plug-in hybrid powered Flying Spur sedan in the current Bentley lineup.
It follows a similarly bold design preview from Jaguar last year in the shape of the Type 00 concept, with the Indian-owned British brand looking to push upmarket onto Bentley's turf.
"The beauty of a concept car is not just to position our new design language, but to test where the market's going," said Bentley design director Robin Page.
"It's clear that SUVs are a growing segment and we understand the GT market – through four generations of the Continental GT – but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it's changing.
"Some customers want a classic 'three-box' sedan shape, others a 'one-box' design, and others again something more elevated. So this was a chance for us to talk to people and get a feeling."
Despite being future facing, Bentley says the shape of the EXP 15 includes nods to classic models from its 106-year history.
The imposing upright front grille, long 'endless' bonnet and rearward positioned cabin were inspired by the 'Blue Train' – the nickname for the 1930 Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman Coupe.
The headlights are positioned inside the concept's wheel arches to define the car's edges, with four ultra-slim strips framing the front grille which is split by an illuminated Bentley emblem.
The automaker said the front grille – while not necessary in an EV – will remain as an important brand signifier for Bentley.
"Grilles used to be all about getting air to the combustion engine through the front of the car. But now with light technology changing we have an opportunity to create a piece of digital art. So the grille stays as our iconic front," said Mr Page.
With no internal combustion engine below it, the space under the long 'endless' bonnet has been repurposed for storage, accessed by traditional piano-hinged 'engine covers'.
The 'endless bonnet line' is carried along the side of the vehicle all the way to the rear, with the overall design cut into two-thirds body, one-third cabin for muscular proportions and 'monolithic presence'.
At the rear, the large, clean surfaces follow Bentley tradition and help create the 'resting beast' stance – which the automaker describes as 'resting cat hind legs' – with a large Bentley logo.
The integrated rear luggage compartment opens to offer two small seats, an 'atmospheric' lamp and cold drinks fridge which can slide back from the rear seats.
The classic exterior elements are combined with 'tensioned' bodywork and 'carved precision' with its Pallas Gold exterior paint including a new aluminium pigment with white-gold highlights.
The decision to offer only three seats – despite room for four or five occupants – was made "to afford greater luxury in transit for the special few and includes innovative in-cabin storage for treasured pets and/or hand luggage as well" according to a statement from Bentley.
"We were influenced by the idea of a three-seat car with a unique window line and super slick proportions used for grand tours," said Darren Day, Bentley head of interior design.
With a single door on the driver's side, twin-coach doors on the passenger side allow access for both passengers, with the layout essentially two rear seats – and no front passenger seat.
The passenger-side seat is designed to swivel 45-degrees for easy access to the rear to allow the other passenger to sit in the chair behind the driver.
"The seat can rotate, and you step out, totally unflustered, not trying to clamber out of the car like you see with some supercars … You just get out with dignity and the Instagram shot is perfect," said Mr Day.
Dubbed 'cocooning haven', the passenger-side seat can be set in a 'Standard' position, more forward 'Co-Pilot' alongside the driver like a traditional front seat, or further back in the 'Relax' position.
Bentley also says the cabin – which has a mix of natural woods, silk jacquard and woven metal finishes – boasts a mix of physical and digital features and "in some instances merge the two".
"We think people are going to get fed up with a fully digital experience and are pining for physical mechanical elements too," said Mr Page.
Like Bentley's existing 'rotating dash', the EXP 15's full-width digital dash can be turned off and rotated for a wood veneer surface, while there are movable 'fingers' showing the state of electric charge and other critical info.
Bentley originally planned to introduce its first EV in 2025 and follow with a new electric model annually until 2030 but – like numerous automakers – has delayed plans based upon market conditions and constantly changing regulations.
In late 2024 it announced its first electric model would be an "urban SUV" to be revealed in 2026, with first customer deliveries in 2027.
Part of the Volkswagen Group, Bentley's first production model is expected to share much of its electric components with the recently teased electric Porsche Cayenne, due in Australian showrooms in 2026.
MORE: Everything Bentley
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
Bentley has shown off its first electric vehicle (EV) concept with the wild and adventurous EXP 15 'elevated sporting sedan', a preview of the look of upcoming showroom EVs from the automaker.
The company revealed the 5.4m-long behemoth as a full-size 'model' of its EV design direction, with the brand poised to introduce its first production EV to showrooms in 2026 after several delays.
There was no news on the electric powertrain underneath the EXP 15's skin, but the company said the concept was "conceived as having a fully electric, all-wheel drive powertrain with a long range and recharging speeds".
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
Despite its description as a sedan, the EXP 15 has only three doors – and three seats – with a body blending the elements of a traditional sedan, GT coupe and blocky, upright styling with the ride height of an SUV.
It's a radical departure from the design of the V8 plug-in hybrid powered Flying Spur sedan in the current Bentley lineup.
It follows a similarly bold design preview from Jaguar last year in the shape of the Type 00 concept, with the Indian-owned British brand looking to push upmarket onto Bentley's turf.
"The beauty of a concept car is not just to position our new design language, but to test where the market's going," said Bentley design director Robin Page.
"It's clear that SUVs are a growing segment and we understand the GT market – through four generations of the Continental GT – but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it's changing.
"Some customers want a classic 'three-box' sedan shape, others a 'one-box' design, and others again something more elevated. So this was a chance for us to talk to people and get a feeling."
Despite being future facing, Bentley says the shape of the EXP 15 includes nods to classic models from its 106-year history.
The imposing upright front grille, long 'endless' bonnet and rearward positioned cabin were inspired by the 'Blue Train' – the nickname for the 1930 Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman Coupe.
The headlights are positioned inside the concept's wheel arches to define the car's edges, with four ultra-slim strips framing the front grille which is split by an illuminated Bentley emblem.
The automaker said the front grille – while not necessary in an EV – will remain as an important brand signifier for Bentley.
"Grilles used to be all about getting air to the combustion engine through the front of the car. But now with light technology changing we have an opportunity to create a piece of digital art. So the grille stays as our iconic front," said Mr Page.
With no internal combustion engine below it, the space under the long 'endless' bonnet has been repurposed for storage, accessed by traditional piano-hinged 'engine covers'.
The 'endless bonnet line' is carried along the side of the vehicle all the way to the rear, with the overall design cut into two-thirds body, one-third cabin for muscular proportions and 'monolithic presence'.
At the rear, the large, clean surfaces follow Bentley tradition and help create the 'resting beast' stance – which the automaker describes as 'resting cat hind legs' – with a large Bentley logo.
The integrated rear luggage compartment opens to offer two small seats, an 'atmospheric' lamp and cold drinks fridge which can slide back from the rear seats.
The classic exterior elements are combined with 'tensioned' bodywork and 'carved precision' with its Pallas Gold exterior paint including a new aluminium pigment with white-gold highlights.
The decision to offer only three seats – despite room for four or five occupants – was made "to afford greater luxury in transit for the special few and includes innovative in-cabin storage for treasured pets and/or hand luggage as well" according to a statement from Bentley.
"We were influenced by the idea of a three-seat car with a unique window line and super slick proportions used for grand tours," said Darren Day, Bentley head of interior design.
With a single door on the driver's side, twin-coach doors on the passenger side allow access for both passengers, with the layout essentially two rear seats – and no front passenger seat.
The passenger-side seat is designed to swivel 45-degrees for easy access to the rear to allow the other passenger to sit in the chair behind the driver.
"The seat can rotate, and you step out, totally unflustered, not trying to clamber out of the car like you see with some supercars … You just get out with dignity and the Instagram shot is perfect," said Mr Day.
Dubbed 'cocooning haven', the passenger-side seat can be set in a 'Standard' position, more forward 'Co-Pilot' alongside the driver like a traditional front seat, or further back in the 'Relax' position.
Bentley also says the cabin – which has a mix of natural woods, silk jacquard and woven metal finishes – boasts a mix of physical and digital features and "in some instances merge the two".
"We think people are going to get fed up with a fully digital experience and are pining for physical mechanical elements too," said Mr Page.
Like Bentley's existing 'rotating dash', the EXP 15's full-width digital dash can be turned off and rotated for a wood veneer surface, while there are movable 'fingers' showing the state of electric charge and other critical info.
Bentley originally planned to introduce its first EV in 2025 and follow with a new electric model annually until 2030 but – like numerous automakers – has delayed plans based upon market conditions and constantly changing regulations.
In late 2024 it announced its first electric model would be an "urban SUV" to be revealed in 2026, with first customer deliveries in 2027.
Part of the Volkswagen Group, Bentley's first production model is expected to share much of its electric components with the recently teased electric Porsche Cayenne, due in Australian showrooms in 2026.
MORE: Everything Bentley
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
Bentley has shown off its first electric vehicle (EV) concept with the wild and adventurous EXP 15 'elevated sporting sedan', a preview of the look of upcoming showroom EVs from the automaker.
The company revealed the 5.4m-long behemoth as a full-size 'model' of its EV design direction, with the brand poised to introduce its first production EV to showrooms in 2026 after several delays.
There was no news on the electric powertrain underneath the EXP 15's skin, but the company said the concept was "conceived as having a fully electric, all-wheel drive powertrain with a long range and recharging speeds".
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
Despite its description as a sedan, the EXP 15 has only three doors – and three seats – with a body blending the elements of a traditional sedan, GT coupe and blocky, upright styling with the ride height of an SUV.
It's a radical departure from the design of the V8 plug-in hybrid powered Flying Spur sedan in the current Bentley lineup.
It follows a similarly bold design preview from Jaguar last year in the shape of the Type 00 concept, with the Indian-owned British brand looking to push upmarket onto Bentley's turf.
"The beauty of a concept car is not just to position our new design language, but to test where the market's going," said Bentley design director Robin Page.
"It's clear that SUVs are a growing segment and we understand the GT market – through four generations of the Continental GT – but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it's changing.
"Some customers want a classic 'three-box' sedan shape, others a 'one-box' design, and others again something more elevated. So this was a chance for us to talk to people and get a feeling."
Despite being future facing, Bentley says the shape of the EXP 15 includes nods to classic models from its 106-year history.
The imposing upright front grille, long 'endless' bonnet and rearward positioned cabin were inspired by the 'Blue Train' – the nickname for the 1930 Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman Coupe.
The headlights are positioned inside the concept's wheel arches to define the car's edges, with four ultra-slim strips framing the front grille which is split by an illuminated Bentley emblem.
The automaker said the front grille – while not necessary in an EV – will remain as an important brand signifier for Bentley.
"Grilles used to be all about getting air to the combustion engine through the front of the car. But now with light technology changing we have an opportunity to create a piece of digital art. So the grille stays as our iconic front," said Mr Page.
With no internal combustion engine below it, the space under the long 'endless' bonnet has been repurposed for storage, accessed by traditional piano-hinged 'engine covers'.
The 'endless bonnet line' is carried along the side of the vehicle all the way to the rear, with the overall design cut into two-thirds body, one-third cabin for muscular proportions and 'monolithic presence'.
At the rear, the large, clean surfaces follow Bentley tradition and help create the 'resting beast' stance – which the automaker describes as 'resting cat hind legs' – with a large Bentley logo.
The integrated rear luggage compartment opens to offer two small seats, an 'atmospheric' lamp and cold drinks fridge which can slide back from the rear seats.
The classic exterior elements are combined with 'tensioned' bodywork and 'carved precision' with its Pallas Gold exterior paint including a new aluminium pigment with white-gold highlights.
The decision to offer only three seats – despite room for four or five occupants – was made "to afford greater luxury in transit for the special few and includes innovative in-cabin storage for treasured pets and/or hand luggage as well" according to a statement from Bentley.
"We were influenced by the idea of a three-seat car with a unique window line and super slick proportions used for grand tours," said Darren Day, Bentley head of interior design.
With a single door on the driver's side, twin-coach doors on the passenger side allow access for both passengers, with the layout essentially two rear seats – and no front passenger seat.
The passenger-side seat is designed to swivel 45-degrees for easy access to the rear to allow the other passenger to sit in the chair behind the driver.
"The seat can rotate, and you step out, totally unflustered, not trying to clamber out of the car like you see with some supercars … You just get out with dignity and the Instagram shot is perfect," said Mr Day.
Dubbed 'cocooning haven', the passenger-side seat can be set in a 'Standard' position, more forward 'Co-Pilot' alongside the driver like a traditional front seat, or further back in the 'Relax' position.
Bentley also says the cabin – which has a mix of natural woods, silk jacquard and woven metal finishes – boasts a mix of physical and digital features and "in some instances merge the two".
"We think people are going to get fed up with a fully digital experience and are pining for physical mechanical elements too," said Mr Page.
Like Bentley's existing 'rotating dash', the EXP 15's full-width digital dash can be turned off and rotated for a wood veneer surface, while there are movable 'fingers' showing the state of electric charge and other critical info.
Bentley originally planned to introduce its first EV in 2025 and follow with a new electric model annually until 2030 but – like numerous automakers – has delayed plans based upon market conditions and constantly changing regulations.
In late 2024 it announced its first electric model would be an "urban SUV" to be revealed in 2026, with first customer deliveries in 2027.
Part of the Volkswagen Group, Bentley's first production model is expected to share much of its electric components with the recently teased electric Porsche Cayenne, due in Australian showrooms in 2026.
MORE: Everything Bentley
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
Bentley has shown off its first electric vehicle (EV) concept with the wild and adventurous EXP 15 'elevated sporting sedan', a preview of the look of upcoming showroom EVs from the automaker.
The company revealed the 5.4m-long behemoth as a full-size 'model' of its EV design direction, with the brand poised to introduce its first production EV to showrooms in 2026 after several delays.
There was no news on the electric powertrain underneath the EXP 15's skin, but the company said the concept was "conceived as having a fully electric, all-wheel drive powertrain with a long range and recharging speeds".
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
Despite its description as a sedan, the EXP 15 has only three doors – and three seats – with a body blending the elements of a traditional sedan, GT coupe and blocky, upright styling with the ride height of an SUV.
It's a radical departure from the design of the V8 plug-in hybrid powered Flying Spur sedan in the current Bentley lineup.
It follows a similarly bold design preview from Jaguar last year in the shape of the Type 00 concept, with the Indian-owned British brand looking to push upmarket onto Bentley's turf.
"The beauty of a concept car is not just to position our new design language, but to test where the market's going," said Bentley design director Robin Page.
"It's clear that SUVs are a growing segment and we understand the GT market – through four generations of the Continental GT – but the trickiest segment is the sedan because it's changing.
"Some customers want a classic 'three-box' sedan shape, others a 'one-box' design, and others again something more elevated. So this was a chance for us to talk to people and get a feeling."
Despite being future facing, Bentley says the shape of the EXP 15 includes nods to classic models from its 106-year history.
The imposing upright front grille, long 'endless' bonnet and rearward positioned cabin were inspired by the 'Blue Train' – the nickname for the 1930 Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Sportsman Coupe.
The headlights are positioned inside the concept's wheel arches to define the car's edges, with four ultra-slim strips framing the front grille which is split by an illuminated Bentley emblem.
The automaker said the front grille – while not necessary in an EV – will remain as an important brand signifier for Bentley.
"Grilles used to be all about getting air to the combustion engine through the front of the car. But now with light technology changing we have an opportunity to create a piece of digital art. So the grille stays as our iconic front," said Mr Page.
With no internal combustion engine below it, the space under the long 'endless' bonnet has been repurposed for storage, accessed by traditional piano-hinged 'engine covers'.
The 'endless bonnet line' is carried along the side of the vehicle all the way to the rear, with the overall design cut into two-thirds body, one-third cabin for muscular proportions and 'monolithic presence'.
At the rear, the large, clean surfaces follow Bentley tradition and help create the 'resting beast' stance – which the automaker describes as 'resting cat hind legs' – with a large Bentley logo.
The integrated rear luggage compartment opens to offer two small seats, an 'atmospheric' lamp and cold drinks fridge which can slide back from the rear seats.
The classic exterior elements are combined with 'tensioned' bodywork and 'carved precision' with its Pallas Gold exterior paint including a new aluminium pigment with white-gold highlights.
The decision to offer only three seats – despite room for four or five occupants – was made "to afford greater luxury in transit for the special few and includes innovative in-cabin storage for treasured pets and/or hand luggage as well" according to a statement from Bentley.
"We were influenced by the idea of a three-seat car with a unique window line and super slick proportions used for grand tours," said Darren Day, Bentley head of interior design.
With a single door on the driver's side, twin-coach doors on the passenger side allow access for both passengers, with the layout essentially two rear seats – and no front passenger seat.
The passenger-side seat is designed to swivel 45-degrees for easy access to the rear to allow the other passenger to sit in the chair behind the driver.
"The seat can rotate, and you step out, totally unflustered, not trying to clamber out of the car like you see with some supercars … You just get out with dignity and the Instagram shot is perfect," said Mr Day.
Dubbed 'cocooning haven', the passenger-side seat can be set in a 'Standard' position, more forward 'Co-Pilot' alongside the driver like a traditional front seat, or further back in the 'Relax' position.
Bentley also says the cabin – which has a mix of natural woods, silk jacquard and woven metal finishes – boasts a mix of physical and digital features and "in some instances merge the two".
"We think people are going to get fed up with a fully digital experience and are pining for physical mechanical elements too," said Mr Page.
Like Bentley's existing 'rotating dash', the EXP 15's full-width digital dash can be turned off and rotated for a wood veneer surface, while there are movable 'fingers' showing the state of electric charge and other critical info.
Bentley originally planned to introduce its first EV in 2025 and follow with a new electric model annually until 2030 but – like numerous automakers – has delayed plans based upon market conditions and constantly changing regulations.
In late 2024 it announced its first electric model would be an "urban SUV" to be revealed in 2026, with first customer deliveries in 2027.
Part of the Volkswagen Group, Bentley's first production model is expected to share much of its electric components with the recently teased electric Porsche Cayenne, due in Australian showrooms in 2026.
MORE: Everything Bentley
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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  • 7NEWS

Petrol and diesel prices to rise following another fuel excise increase

Australians will pay more for petrol and diesel following another fuel excise increase from today, August 4, prompting renewed calls for the 'hidden tax' to be axed in favour of a national road user charge. The second increase this year will see the fuel excise on petrol and diesel rise from 50.8 to 51.6 cents per litre, an impost that fuel retailers will be forced to pass on to consumers at the bowser. Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) CEO Peter Jones said the latest fuel excise increase was 'a predictable six-monthly tax grab' that will hit the pockets of families and businesses already struggling with cost-of-living pressures. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. 'This is an indiscriminate tax that disproportionately affects low-income earners and families who rely on their vehicles for work and essential travel,' said Mr Jones in a statement. The VACC says fuel excise is effectively a hidden tax, because unlike other government charges it's built into the price displayed at the pump, meaning consumers are often unaware they're paying this substantial government levy on every litre purchased. Motorists are then forced to pay the 10 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on top of the fuel excise, effectively making it a tax on a tax. 'It's a clear double dip by the Federal Government. Motorists are being slugged with excise, then charged GST on that excise. It's no wonder Australia continues to have some of the highest fuel costs in the developed world,' said Mr Jones. 'Motorists deserve transparency about how their fuel is priced. They need to understand that fuel excise isn't a static tax – the government increases it every six months, and it's a significant component of what they pay at the pump.' Fuel excise increases twice annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which rose by 0.7 per cent in the June quarter and 2.1 per cent in the 12 months to June. The August 4 fuel excise increase amounts to about 1.5 per cent. Fuel tax was originally designed to fund road infrastructure and maintenance, but research by the AAA found only 57 per cent of fuel excise revenue in the decade to the 2022-23 financial year was reinvested in public transport and roads. Prior to the last federal election the Opposition promised to halve the controversial tax for 12 months, claiming savings of $700 per year for motorists. That didn't happen and Australian Government revenue from fuel excise is now expected to increase over the next few years to about $17.7 billion in the 2026-27 financial year – up from $15.71bn in 2023-24. The Opposition also promised to abolish fines for auto brands that exceed tightening CO2 limits across their model ranges under the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which is designed to accelerate the uptake of zero- and low-emissions vehicles between 2025 and 2029. But as more Australians transition to hybrids (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery-electric vehicles (EVs), fuel excise revenue is expected to decline significantly, creating pressure on government to develop alternative funding mechanisms for road infrastructure. The VACC is among a number of auto industry organisations now advocating for a national road user charging system, which it says would 'ensure fair contributions from all road users whilst avoiding a patchwork of state-based policies'. Zero- and low-emissions vehicle charges implemented or planned by states including Victoria, NSW, South Australia and Western Australia to help fund road maintenance have now been scrapped following a 2023 High Court ruling which deemed Victoria's levy on EV and PHEV drivers as an excise and therefore invalid under the Constitution, which states that only the Commonwealth Parliament (not states or territories) can 'impose duties of customs and excise'.

Seven things we love about the Mahindra XUV700
Seven things we love about the Mahindra XUV700

Perth Now

time2 hours ago

  • Perth Now

Seven things we love about the Mahindra XUV700

SPONSORED Almost every mainstream automaker has a mid-size SUV in their showrooms these days, because medium SUVs are the most popular new-vehicle type. But there's only a handful that offer growing Australian families on a tight budget the added flexibility of three-row seating, including the Mahindra XUV700. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Here are seven things we love about it. The Mahindra XUV700 is the most affordable seven-seat mid-size SUV currently on sale in Australia. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Indian auto brand offers three model grades: the entry-level AX7 that costs $39,990 drive-away, the mid-range AX7L (pictured here) that commands a $3000 premium, and the range-topping Black Edition that costs $1000 more. For under $40k, even in the entry variant gives you a level standard equipment normally reserved for high-end variants of the XUV700's competitors, including twin 10.25 digital displays, smartphone mirroring, synthetic leather seat trim, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, 18-inch alloy wheels and a panoramic sunroof. The AX7L amplifies the value equation even further for not much more, offering additional features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a premium 12-speaker audio system, wireless phone charger, ventilated front seats and more. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert As you'd expect from its name, the Black Edition is available with exclusive new Napoli Black paintwork, with matching black alloy wheels and grille, as well as dark chrome interior highlights on the air vents and centre console. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. The Mahindra XUV700 is one of only a handful of mid-size SUVs with the capacity to seat seven, alongside the Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert But its rivals only offer that flexibility in certain variants which cost significantly more, whereas all versions of the XUV700 have third-row seating. And all occupants are treated with a generous amount of space, with a commanding view for those in the front seats and enough headroom and legroom in the second row to accommodate adults comfortably. There's also a flip-down centre armrest in the middle seat as well as rear air vents and a USB-C power outlet on the back of the centre console. The third row is surprisingly roomy for a car of this size, but is really only suitable for small children. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert With it in place, boot space is reduced yet still offers enough room for a couple of school bags or a quick grocery run. But in its five-seat configuration the XUV700 has a cavernous cargo area that's bigger than most of its rivals. Beyond that, the XUV700 has a raft of clever storage solutions throughout the cabin, including deep door pockets in both the front and rear, easy access to the wireless phone charging pad, a non-slip surface at the base of the centre console, sunglasses holder in the roof pod, a huge glovebox and a lidded bin between the seats, both of which are cooled by the air-conditioning system, which is nice. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. What really sets the Mahindra XUV700 apart from the other seven-seat mid-size SUVs is that those seated in the back row are provided with equal amenities, including their own air vents with separate fan controls, cupholders in each of the armrests and a 12V power outlet. Not all of its competitors treat those in the very back to the same level of comfort and convenience. Supplied Credit: CarExpert It's also relatively easy to access thanks to a simple one-touch lever on the passenger side (which is, smartly, the kerb side) of the middle-row seat, which folds it down and flips it forward to create enough space to step up and into the third row, rather than climbing up and over. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. Importantly for families, the Mahindra XUV700 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids and safety systems, including: Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) Adaptive cruise control Forward collision warning Smart pilot assist Lane departure warning Lane keeping assistance Traffic sign recognition Automatic high-beam headlights Six airbags Reversing camera The AX7L and Black Edition add a few extra safety features including blind spot monitoring, a 360-degree parking display and automated stop/go functionality as part of the adaptive cruise control system. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. It has the latest in digital conveniences too, with twin 10.25-inch displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, both of which are crisp and clear with bright graphics. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The instrument cluster has two round dials for speed and engine revs, with oversized numerical readouts in the centre of each to show exact road speed and gear position respectively, while in between there is a multi-function screen that can display a myriad of information, including replicating the navigation display and instructions from the main screen. It also flashes up with a side view of the adjacent lane from the wing mirrors when the indicators are activated. The infotainment screen runs Mahindra's proprietary Adrenox operating system, which has large widgets that are clearly designated to allow easy navigation of the logical menu structure, and the wireless smartphone mirroring function was consistently reliable during our test period. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert It's all pretty easy to use, and the 12-speaker audio system in the AX7L and Black Edition has excellent clarity and 3D staging functionality. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. All versions of the Mahindra XUV700 are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that drives the front wheels only through a six-speed automatic transmission. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The engine produces 149kW of power and 380Nm of torque, and consumes a claimed average of 8.3L/100km. Beyond the numbers, it's a gutsy yet refined powerplant that delivers a smooth surge of acceleration whenever asked, and is nicely matched with the smooth-shifting conventional (not dual-clutch) transmission. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. The Mahindra XUV700's value for money equation extends beyond the showroom floor with generous aftersales provisions, providing strong long-term ownership peace of mind. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The XUV700 is backed by a seven-year/150,000km factory warranty that includes free roadside assistance. Mahindra also supports the first four years of ownership with a capped-price servicing scheme, which has an annual average cost of $445.25, with regular maintenance required every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever occurs first. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. The Mahindra XUV700 delivers more than you'd expect, both in terms of value for money and roominess. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Its flexible seven-seat cabin is loaded with the latest conveniences, and comes with more standard equipment and luxuries than most of its rivals at a fraction of the cost. It's also comfortable and effortless to drive, thanks to its powerful and yet smooth drivetrain, and equipped with the latest in advanced safety tech. It's an ideal solution for growing families on a tight budget. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new Mahindra XUV700. Click here to get a great deal. MORE: Explore the Mahindra XUV700 showroom

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