Isuzu V-Cross vs Mahindra XUV700: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 15-30 Lakh for Off-roading Enthusiasts

Off the beaten track lies adventure. The off-roading enthusiast, for that reason, is looking only for the best off-road cars, or top SUVs for off-roading in India. Today, we look at the Isuzu V-Cross and Mahindra XUV700, and find out what makes them off-road vehicles in India.

In this article, we will share

• What an off-roading enthusiast looks for in a car
• Isuzu V-Cross vs Mahindra XUV700 – an in-depth look at their variants, features, and off-roading capabilities
• How to pick the right car for you

So, can these cars handle water-wading, rough or muddy terrains, or traverse through sand? Are they capable of mild to serious off-roading? Let’s find out.

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500

What an Offroading Enthusiast Looks for in a Car

Here’s what to look for in a car as an off-roading enthusiast:

• Drive system – What drive system does the vehicle have (FWD, AWD, or 4X4)
• Ground clearance – the car should have high ground clearance to tackle uneven terrains
• Low range gearing – the car should have low range gearing to allow the vehicle to drive at lower speeds while still operating the usable power band/RPM of the entire engine
• Locking differential – the vehicle should have differential locking for better traction when driving on soft, muddy or uneven surfaces
• Engine power and torque – the engine should have adequate power and generate enough torque
• Safety – safety features are important, especially when traveling through challenging terrains
• Comfort and convenience – the vehicle should offer good comfort, as well as convenience features

Off-roading enthusiasts want a rugged SUV with excellent ground clearance, high approach/departure angles and 4WD. Differential lock and low range gearbox boost traction on rough terrain.

Generous torque and skid plates provide confidence over rocks and ruts. They want creature comforts like parking sensors, leather seats, auto AC and touchscreens to make journeys pleasant.

Why Isuzu V-Cross and Mahindra XUV700 are popular

The V-Cross and XUV700 are immensely capable off-roaders that appeal to enthusiasts.

The V-Cross has a ladder frame chassis, shiftable 4WD, differential lock and superb 215 mm ground clearance. With 320 Nm of torque, it can power through the toughest trails.

The XUV700 gets frequency selective dampers for better high-speed stability. With all-wheel independent suspension, it remains composed over undulations while the torquey engine inspires confidence.

Both models have modern tech like traction control, hill descent and knee airbags. Spacious, feature-laden interiors make road trips enjoyable. Proven reliability and extensive service networks are added advantages.

Isuzu V-Cross and Mahindra XUV700 variants in Rs 15-30 lakh range

For Isuzu V-Cross, we have:

For Mahindra XUV700, we have:

Isuzu V-Cross

• Z AT: Gets essentials like projection headlamps, auto AC, power tailgate lock. Capable off-roader.
• Z Prestige AT: Adds touchscreen, side steps, leatherette seats. Better value than range-topper.
• Z Prestige 4WD AT: Range-topping variant with 4WD, electric driver seat, automatic headlamps. Hardcore off-road spec.

You can also read our comparison of the V-Cross with Toyota Hilux for off-roading enthusiasts.

Mahindra XUV700

• AX5 Petrol MT: Lowest priced XUV700, gets all-wheel disc brakes, 7 airbags, auto headlamps.
• AX7 Diesel MT: Diesel motor has excellent torque for off-roading. Adds larger touchscreen, dual-zone climate control.
• AX7 Diesel AT AWD: Automatic gearbox with AWD boosts capability further. Good value.

If you’re long-distance road trip lover, you can read our comparison of the XUV700 with Toyota Innova Hycross.

Our Pick for the Best Isuzu V-cross, Mahindra XUV700 variant for Off-roading Enthusiasts

For hardcore off-roading, the Isuzu V-Cross Z Prestige 4WD AT priced at ₹29.31 lakhs is the best choice. Here’s why it’s perfectly suited for off-road enthusiasts:

• The 4WD system with low range gearbox and differential lock allows tackling the most challenging terrain. There’s also a separate underbody protective plate.
• With 320 Nm torque from a large 3 liter diesel, crawling over rocks or powering up steep inclines feels effortless. The engine produces peak torque at low RPM.
• Approach and departure angles are an impressive 30 and 24.2 degrees respectively. There’s ample 215 mm ground clearance too.
• Hill descent control and hill start assist enhance capability further. The ladder on frame chassis provides rigidity.
• Touches like automatic LED headlamps, push button start, side steps make practicality better. The leatherette seats are supportive during long drives.
• Safety is well covered with 4 airbags, ABS, stability and traction control.

With its combination of rugged off-road hardware and modern comfort features, the V-Cross 4WD AT is undoubtedly the best variant for off-roading purists.

The Top 3 choices

2. Isuzu V-Cross 4WD AT
3. Mahindra XUV700 AX7 Diesel AT
4. Mahindra XUV700 AX7 Diesel AT AWD

How to Pick the Right Car for You

• The V-Cross 4WD AT is the most hardcore off-roader of the trio with 4WD low range gearbox, differential lock and huge ground clearance. Off-road purists will love it.
• The XUV700 AX7 Diesel AT balances off-road ability with comfort. The torquey engine, panoramic sunroof and plush seats make road trips enjoyable. It’s the choice for occasional off-roading.
• The AX7 Diesel AT AWD adds the reassurance of 4WD for taking on challenging terrain. It retains the comfort and tech but with enhanced capability. Ideal for off-roading enthusiasts on a budget. You can also read our comparison of the XUV700 with Mahindra Scorpio-N for tech-savvy gadget lovers.

All three models are highly appealing choices for off-roading enthusiasts depending on needs and budget. The V-Cross is the most rugged while the XUV700 variants place greater emphasis on luxury and technology.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.

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