The Indian SUV market is changing fast, with carmakers focusing more on technology and comfort. Two of the most talked-about upcoming SUVs, the Tata Sierra and the Mahindra XUV700 Facelift, are set to introduce a new trend—triple screen layouts in their dashboards. This feature, once seen only in luxury vehicles, is now coming to mainstream Indian SUVs, showing how much buyers now value digital features and in-car entertainment.
The Tata Sierra is making a comeback after more than 20 years, aiming to attract both old fans and new, tech-savvy buyers. Mahindra, on the other hand, is updating its popular XUV700 to stay ahead in the competitive market. Both SUVs will have three large screens on the dashboard: one for the driver, one in the center for infotainment, and a third just for the front passenger. This new setup is expected to make journeys more enjoyable and interactive for everyone in the car, not just the driver.
These changes are not just about style—they reflect a growing demand for advanced technology, comfort, and safety in modern cars. With more than 60% of new car buyers in India under the age of 40, features like digital displays, smart connectivity, and entertainment options are becoming must-haves. The Tata Sierra and Mahindra XUV700 Facelift are stepping up to meet these new expectations.
Tata Sierra vs Mahindra XUV700 2025
The triple screen layout is a new trend in car interiors, especially in India’s SUV segment. This setup includes three separate digital displays on the dashboard:
- Driver’s digital instrument cluster
- Central infotainment touchscreen
- Passenger entertainment screen
This design is aimed at making the cabin feel more modern, interactive, and comfortable for everyone.
Overview Table
| Feature | Tata Sierra | Mahindra XUV700 Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Timeline | Late 2025 to Early 2026 | Expected 2026 |
| Number of Screens | 3 | 3 |
| Screen Size | 12.3 inches each (expected) | 12.3 inches each (expected) |
| Screen Functions | Driver info, infotainment, passenger entertainment | Driver info, infotainment, passenger entertainment |
| Engine Options | 1.5L turbo-petrol, 2.0L diesel, EV | 2.0L turbo-petrol, 2.2L diesel |
| Key Rivals | Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, VW Taigun | Tata Sierra, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos |
| Interior Theme | Dual-tone, modern | Dual-tone, modern |
| Expected Price Range | ₹18-25 lakh (estimated) | ₹20-28 lakh (estimated) |
Tata Sierra: A Modern Comeback
The Tata Sierra is returning to the Indian market after two decades. The new model keeps the original’s boxy shape but adds a lot of modern technology and comfort features. The triple screen dashboard is the main highlight, making the Sierra one of the most advanced SUVs in its segment.
Key Features of Tata Sierra
- Three separate screens: Digital instrument cluster for the driver, central touchscreen for infotainment, and a dedicated passenger screen.
- Passenger entertainment: The front passenger can watch videos, play games, stream TV shows, or help with navigation. A special film on the passenger screen prevents the driver from getting distracted.
- Modern dashboard: The screens are spaced apart, giving the cabin a clean and open feel. The dashboard also features slim AC vents and a 4-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo.
- Comfort & safety: Expected features include a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger, ventilated front seats, 6 airbags, 360-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS.
- Powertrain options: The Sierra will be available with both petrol and diesel engines, as well as an electric version. The petrol engine is expected to be a 1.5-litre turbo, while the diesel may be a 2.0-litre unit.
- Launch window: Tata Motors is planning to launch the new Sierra between October 2025 and March 2026.
Why the Triple Screen Matters
- Enhanced passenger experience: The passenger can enjoy entertainment or assist the driver without interfering with the main infotainment system.
- Tech appeal: With over 70% of Indian SUV buyers under 40, digital features are a big selling point.
- Safety: The special film on the passenger screen ensures the driver is not distracted, balancing entertainment and safety.
Mahindra XUV700 Facelift: Digital Evolution
The Mahindra XUV700 Facelift is set to bring a big update to one of India’s most popular SUVs. While the current XUV700 already has a strong tech focus, the facelift will push this further with a triple screen dashboard, following the design first seen in Mahindra’s XEV 9e concept.
Key Features of Mahindra XUV700 Facelift
- Triple 12.3-inch screens: One for the driver’s instrument cluster, one for the central infotainment system, and one for the front passenger’s entertainment.
- Passenger screen functions: The passenger can stream videos, play games, make video calls, and help with navigation. Like the Sierra, a special film prevents driver distraction.
- Updated interior: The facelift will keep the dual-tone black and beige theme, with new materials and finishes for a more premium feel.
- Exterior changes: Sharper LED headlights, new grille, and updated alloy wheels (possibly 19-inch for higher trims).
- Engine options: The facelift will continue with the current 2.0-litre turbo petrol (197 bhp) and 2.2-litre turbo diesel (182 bhp) engines, with both manual and automatic options. Higher trims may offer all-wheel drive.
- Safety & comfort: Features like 7 airbags, ADAS, 360-degree camera, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and a 12-speaker sound system will be retained or improved.
- Expected launch: Mahindra is likely to launch the facelifted XUV700 in 2026.
Why the Triple Screen is a Game Changer
- Passenger engagement: The dedicated passenger screen adds a new level of comfort and fun, especially on long drives.
- Modern appeal: The triple screen layout makes the cabin look futuristic and matches global trends in automotive design.
- Competitive edge: With the Tata Sierra also offering this feature, Mahindra ensures the XUV700 stays ahead in the tech race.
Triple Screen Layout: What Does It Offer?
The triple screen layout is more than just a design trend—it changes how people interact with the car.
Main Benefits
- Driver Focus: The digital instrument cluster gives the driver all the needed information in a clear, customizable way.
- Central Control: The middle touchscreen controls music, navigation, climate, and car settings.
- Passenger Entertainment: The third screen lets the front passenger watch videos, play games, or help with navigation without disturbing the driver or the main infotainment system.
- Safety: Special films or software prevent the passenger screen from distracting the driver.
- Personalization: Each screen can be set up to show different information or entertainment, making the experience unique for each user.
Key Functions of Each Screen
- Driver Screen: Speed, fuel, navigation, safety alerts, trip info.
- Central Screen: Music, maps, phone, car settings, climate control.
- Passenger Screen: Movies, TV shows, games, video calls, navigation help.
How Triple Screen Layouts Are Changing Indian SUVs
The move to triple screen dashboards marks a big shift in what Indian car buyers expect:
- Tech-savvy buyers: Over 60% of new car buyers in India are under 40 and want the latest tech in their cars.
- Digital lifestyle: With smartphones and tablets everywhere, people expect similar digital experiences in their vehicles.
- Entertainment on the go: Long commutes and road trips are easier when passengers have their own entertainment options.
- Safety remains a priority: Even with more screens, safety features like special films, ADAS, and multiple airbags ensure that technology does not come at the cost of safety.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Tata Sierra | Mahindra XUV700 Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Driver’s Screen | Digital, 12.3-inch (expected) | Digital, 12.3-inch (expected) |
| Central Touchscreen | 12.3-inch (expected) | 12.3-inch (expected) |
| Passenger Screen | 12.3-inch (expected) | 12.3-inch (expected) |
| Passenger Functions | Video, games, navigation help | Video, games, video calls, navigation help |
| Safety Feature | Anti-glare film on passenger screen | Anti-glare film on passenger screen |
| Interior Design | Dual-tone, modern, open feel | Dual-tone, premium, updated |
| Launch Date | Late 2025–Early 2026 (expected) | 2026 (expected) |
Other Important Features
Both SUVs will offer a host of modern features beyond the triple screen dashboard:
- Panoramic sunroof
- Wireless phone charging
- Ventilated front seats
- 360-degree camera
- Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
- Premium sound systems (up to 12 speakers)
- Multiple airbags (up to 7)
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
Market Impact and Buyer Expectations
The introduction of triple screen layouts in the Tata Sierra and Mahindra XUV700 Facelift is expected to set a new standard in the Indian SUV market. As per industry data, SUVs now make up over 45% of total passenger vehicle sales in India, and the demand for tech-rich models is growing every year.
Why Buyers Will Love This Feature
- Younger buyers: More than 70% of new SUV buyers in India are under 40, and they want the latest technology in their cars.
- Family-friendly: With separate entertainment for the front passenger, families can enjoy long trips without arguments over what to watch or play.
- Business use: The passenger screen can be used for video calls or presentations, making these SUVs a good choice for professionals.
What to Expect Next
The Tata Sierra and Mahindra XUV700 Facelift are just the beginning. As more buyers demand digital features, other carmakers are likely to follow with their own versions of multi-screen dashboards. This will make the Indian car market even more competitive and exciting.
Future Trends
- More screens in more cars: Expect to see triple or even quad-screen layouts in other new models soon.
- Better software: As screens become more common, carmakers will focus on making their software easier to use and more powerful.
- Electric SUVs: Both Tata and Mahindra are also working on electric versions of their SUVs, which will likely have even more digital features.
Conclusion
The upcoming Tata Sierra and Mahindra XUV700 Facelift are leading a new wave of digital innovation in Indian SUVs with their triple screen layouts. This feature will make driving and traveling more enjoyable, interactive, and safe for everyone in the car. With more than 60% of new car buyers in India under 40, and the SUV segment growing rapidly, these models are set to become popular choices for tech-loving families and professionals alike.
As the Indian car market continues to evolve, expect to see even more advanced features, smarter software, and greater focus on both comfort and safety. The Tata Sierra and Mahindra XUV700 Facelift are just the start of a new era in Indian automotive design, where technology and user experience take center stage.
