Women With Drive, a collaboration between Autocar India and Mahindra & Mahindra, returned for
its fifth edition with a spectacular showcase of skill, confidence, and cutting-edge automotive
technology. Flagging off from Victoria South, Mumbai, on International Women’s Day, this year’s
event saw over 35 passionate women from all walks of life take the driver’s seat, pushing the limits
of power, precision, and adventure in an exhilarating series of challenges at the Aamby Valley
Airstrip. The drive began in a convoy of XUV700s, with the rest of Mahindra’s capable SUV lineup
waiting at the other end.
After a smooth highway dash with the XUV700 stretching its legs and cocooning the participants
in comfort, it was time to dive into the action at Aamby Valley.
Driving the spirit of empowerment forward was Mahindra’s dynamic lineup of SUVs – each
playing a key role in the experience. From conquering off-road trails to mastering high-speed
autocross circuits, the event highlighted not just the driving prowess of the participants but also
the standout capabilities of the vehicles at their command.
Mahindra SUVs Rise to the Challenge
Inspired by the women behind the wheel, each challenge at the event highlighted not only their
enterprising spirit, but also key strengths of Mahindra’s SUV lineup, proving that cutting-edge
technology and superior engineering truly elevate the driving experience.
Mahindra XUV700
Setting the tone for the day was the Mahindra XUV700, which served as the convoy vehicle for
the journey to Aamby Valley. Designed to blend luxury with cutting-edge technology, the
XUV700 provided participants with a first-hand experience of its premium features on the
highway. The expansive superscreen infotainment system, powered by AdrenoX, delivered
seamless connectivity and entertainment, while the 12-speaker Sony 3D audio system provided
an immersive sound experience. The drive was further enhanced by the SUV’s ADAS suite,
which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, reducing driver workload on long
stretches of road. The panoramic sunroof added to the sense of openness in the cabin, making
the journey both comfortable and visually stunning. With its blind-spot monitoring system and
360-degree camera, manoeuvring through traffic and tight spots was an effortless affair,
ensuring a stress-free drive from Mumbai to Aamby Valley.
Mahindra 3XO
The Mahindra 3XO proved its versatility in two dynamic challenges: the Autocross Challenge
and the Packing Challenge. As a compact SUV with a futuristic design, the 3XO offered an
intelligent use of space while delivering an engaging driving experience. On the autocross track
at the Aamby Valley airstrip, participants experienced the thrill of its Zoom driving mode, which
enhances throttle response and steering precision, making the 3XO feel nimble and confident
through the slalom course.
Beyond its performance, the 3XO showcased its practical side in the Packing Challenge,
where participants had to fit a designated number of boxes into its cargo area in the shortest
time possible. The challenge highlighted the efficient cabin design and smart space
management of the 3XO, proving that compact dimensions do not come at the expense of
practicality. With a striking, concept-like design, the 3XO seamlessly blends form and function,
making it a standout in its segment.
Mahindra Scorpio-N
The Mahindra Scorpio-N took centre stage in the Off-Road Trail, demonstrating its rugged
capabilities across challenging terrain. Built for adventure, the Scorpio-N’s 4XPLOD 4WD
system features multiple terrain modes, allowing drivers to adapt to varying surfaces with ease.
Under expert guidance, participants navigated steep inclines, loose gravel, and uneven trails,
experiencing the advanced Penta-link suspension’s ability to absorb undulating surfaces
effortlessly. Participants found comfort in the commanding seating position which provided
excellent visibility all-round, instilling confidence even in first-time off-roaders. Inside, ventilated
seats ensured comfort in demanding conditions, while the spacious cabin allowed for a stable
and composed experience for passengers, too. Whether tackling deep ruts or rocky paths, the
Scorpio-N made off-roading feel intuitive and accessible, reinforcing its reputation as an SUV
built to conquer any challenge.
Mahindra Thar 3-door
Alongside the Scorpio-N on the off-road course, the 3-door Mahindra Thar also showcased its
stellar abilities over the course of the varied obstacles it encountered, making good use of its
low ratio gearbox and four-wheel-drive powertrain to scamper across the landscape like a
champ.
Mahindra Thar Roxx
Autocar India’s 2025 Car of The Year, the Mahindra Thar Roxx, combined its unmistakable
design with exceptional ease-of-use. With its iconic silhouette, bold 19-inch alloy wheels, and
commanding road presence, the Thar Roxx made an immediate impression on all the
participants. In the Parking Challenge, participants put to use its 360-degree camera system,
effortlessly executing the perfect parking manoeuvre in the shortest time possible. The
challenge highlighted how advanced driver-centric features and the light yet precise steering,
make tackling urban environments effortless.
Renuka Kirpalani, Consulting Editor, Autocar India, said about her experience, “This event is
all about getting women out of their routine and behind the wheel. The off-road course and
autocross are designed to raise their levels of confidence and instil the thrill of driving. Hearing
them say “one more turn’ or “I don’t want to get out of the car” is what it’s all about. I love to get
them to enjoy driving as much as I do.”
Manjari Upadhye, CMO, Mahindra Automotive shared her thoughts about the varied
challenges at Aamby Valley, “At Mahindra, empowerment is about boldly claiming every
challenge—on the road and beyond. This Women’s Day, we salute the unstoppable spirit of
women who aren’t just driving our SUVs but are also driving the world forward. We stand with
every woman who steps into the driver’s seat to rise and shape a better tomorrow.”
Pushing Boundaries, Inspiring Confidence
As Women With Drive celebrated its fifth edition, it reaffirmed the belief that confidence behind
the wheel comes from both skill and the right vehicle. Mahindra’s SUVs not only provided a
platform for women to showcase their driving abilities, but also underscored how technology,
design, and performance come together to enhance the overall experience. Whether
conquering the highway, navigating technical challenges, or venturing off the beaten path, every
woman at the event left with a renewed sense of empowerment and appreciation for what’s
possible behind the wheel.
