Known for its strong performance and effortless drivability, the diesel-automatic version of the Mahindra XUV 7XO has traditionally been the more sensible choice for buyers who prioritise efficiency and long-distance usability. We put it through our city and highway fuel-efficiency tests to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
Comes with auto engine stop-start system
Gets 4 drive modes: Zip, Zap, Zoom and Custom
Mahindra XUV 7XO diesel-AT mileage tested
The XUV 7XO diesel is powered by the familiar mHawk 2.2-litre engine, producing 185hp and 450Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic. Unlike the petrol version, which does without drive modes, the diesel gets Zip, Zap and Zoom, along with the recently introduced Custom mode.
For our drive, we left the vehicle in the most economical Zip setting throughout and kept the auto engine stop-start system active to help curb fuel consumption while idling. Incidentally, much like the petrol version, the system does not automatically restart the engine if cabin temperatures rise significantly; instead, the engine fires back up only when the driver lifts off the brake pedal. It’s also not quite as quick to respond as in the petrol-AT, with a slightly more noticeable delay during restart.
In our city tests, the diesel returned an impressive 11.28kpl, while efficiency improved to 14.91kpl on the highway. For reference, as with the petrol-AT, the engine revs at a relaxed 1,600rpm in sixth gear while cruising at 100kph. Given its significantly stronger fuel-efficiency figures compared to the petrol-AT, the diesel is likely to be the preferred choice for most buyers.
Autocar India’s fuel efficiency testing
Before our real-world fuel efficiency tests, we fill our test cars’ tanks to the brim and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendation. These cars are driven in fixed city and highway loops in and around Navi Mumbai, and we maintain certain average speeds. Throughout the tests, we run the aircon at 22 degrees in full-auto mode, and other electricals, such as the audio system, indicators and wipers, when required, just like a regular user would. Periodic driver swaps further neutralise variations in driver patterns. At the end of each cycle, we calculate efficiency by filling the tanks to full again.
