XUV700 diesel AT vs petrol AT; Why I decided on AX7L Petrol AT variant?

I chose the petrol version of the SUV, despite seeing a fuel efficiency of 4.3 km/l on the dash

BHPian CarML recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I am looking to replace my Renault Duster and have shortlisted the mighty XUV700. My expected running is 7K+ per year with 70% highway driving. The obvious choice is petrol. However, given that AX7L AT Diesel 7 seater costs only 65K more than the petrol variant in Bangalore, I wanted to evaluate both. After reading multiple "petrol vs diesel" discussions on the forum, I was still confused. Apart from the driving dynamics, features, etc., I rate NVH as one of the deciding factors for my next car purchase. (Coming from a Diesel manual, I want a more refined machine). Though the diesel mill of XUV700 has been rated as one of the most refined, I wanted to check if it was good enough. So, I decided to drive petrol and diesel variants back to back and feel it for myself. SA at Mahindra was kind enough to arrange for back-to-back TDs and also allowed me to take the car for a long drive.

Driving the Diesel AT:

1. Very refined at idle. No vibrations.
2. Gear shifts are smooth. However, coming from a manual, it takes some time to get used to moderating throttle inputs. There was slight turbo lag as well.
3. The auto hold is great at red signals. However, getting off it needs the A pedal to be tapped with a light foot. It can cause slight jerkiness. Maybe this needs some practice to master the exact amount of pressure.
4. When the speedo is in the 30 to 40 km/l bracket, the typical diesel engine clatter can be felt. It's not too loud. However, it is very noticeable and plays spoilsport in such a premium car. This happens each and every time the speed is in this bracket and is annoying. Surprisingly, as the speed builds up, the engine is quiet again.
5. Wind noise becomes very prominent post 90 KMPH and increases thereafter. I hit 120 KMPH on NICE road. I felt engine noise was well controlled, at least compared to my Duster. It is not too intruding at all. However, wind noise is very prominent.
6. Surprisingly, I could hear the AC blower more prominently than the engine noise.

Driving the Petrol AT:

1. As expected, extremely refined and smooth.
2. No lag when compared to Diesel. Linear acceleration and very enjoyable.
3. I deliberately pushed it hard around 30 KMPH. Although some engine noise was heard, it is very minimal and not annoying like the Diesel. Had I not taken back-to-back TDs, I might not have appreciated this so much, I guess!
4. Sadly, wind noise is very prominent beyond 90 KMPH even in the petrol version. The AC blower noise is also prominent.
5. Rapid acceleration when needed and overtaking when there is open road ahead is a breeze, thanks to the 200 BHP monster.
6. Very satisfying TD. The only heart-breaking sight in the car is... yes, the FE. It stood at 4.3 km/l, probably due to the aggressive driving for a short duration.

I am considering booking the AX7L Petrol AT, given the very refined and premium experience. As per my calculations, I expect to spend ~ 20K to 25K more for fuel per year for my running after 3 years (considering the break-even period for the upfront cost of a Diesel car).

The SA said that they might have some vehicles in stock, with VIN pointing to March and April. They are still clearing stock since they announced the price reduction.

Dear members - Please suggest if the March/April manufactured vehicle is good to be considered for buying in August.

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