Mahindra XUV700 vs Subaru Forester
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mahindra XUV700 starts from $37,490 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Forester opens at $43,490. That makes the Mahindra XUV700 the more affordable entry point by $6,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $41,239 and $47,839 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
The Subaru Forester holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the Mahindra XUV700.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mahindra XUV700 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Subaru Forester.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Mahindra XUV700 and 9 in the Subaru Forester.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mahindra XUV700 stands out with Apple CarPlay and wireless charging that you will not find on the Subaru Forester. The Subaru Forester counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mahindra XUV700 uses a Petrol producing 149kW and 380Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.5 seconds.
The Subaru Forester responds with a Petrol making 136kW and 226Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11.2 seconds.
The Mahindra XUV700 has the clear power advantage at 149kW vs 136kW. In the real-world sprint, the Mahindra XUV700 is 1.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mahindra XUV700 measures 4,695mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 40mm longer than the Subaru Forester at 4,655mm (2,670mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mahindra XUV700 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 450L in the Mahindra XUV700 and 520L in the Subaru Forester, giving the Subaru Forester a 70L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m diameter
Good
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,423/year for the Mahindra XUV700 and $2,309/year for the Subaru Forester. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the Subaru Forester.
Estimated annual total: $2,423 (Mahindra XUV700) vs $2,309 (Subaru Forester). The Subaru Forester saves you roughly $114 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 150,000km (Mahindra XUV700) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Forester). The Mahindra XUV700 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mahindra XUV700 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer Mahindra's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Forester if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mahindra XUV700 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Subaru Forester will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Subaru Forester has a clear edge. The Mahindra XUV700 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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