SUV: A Fresh Petrol Chapter in India’s Premium Seven-Seater Space
SUV: The Indian SUV market has entered an interesting phase with petrol engines gaining renewed importance in the large three-row segment. Until recently, diesel engines dominated this space, but changing buyer preferences and stricter emission norms have encouraged manufacturers to expand petrol offerings. Tata Motors has taken a major step by introducing a petrol-powered Safari, directly challenging Mahindra’s already popular seven-seater SUV. This comparison explores how the petrol Tata Safari and the Mahindra XUV700 stack up against each other in terms of design, dimensions, features, performance, and pricing, helping buyers make an informed decision.
Vehicle Dimensions and Road Presence
When it comes to physical size, both SUVs project a strong road presence and are clearly positioned in the premium category. The Mahindra XUV700 measures 4,695 mm in length, making it slightly longer than the Tata Safari, which is 4,668 mm long. This difference is barely noticeable in everyday driving and does not significantly affect cabin space.
The Safari compensates for its marginally shorter length by being wider and taller. With a width of 1,922 mm, it feels more planted on the road compared to the XUV700’s 1,890 mm. Height is another area where the Safari has an advantage, standing at 1,795 mm versus the XUV700’s 1,755 mm. This added height translates into a more commanding driving position and slightly better headroom.
Wheelbase figures are extremely close, with the XUV700 offering a 2,750 mm wheelbase, just 9 mm longer than the Safari’s 2,741 mm. Overall, both SUVs are evenly matched in terms of dimensions, and the choice here will largely depend on personal preference regarding stance and styling.
Interior Technology and Comfort Features
Inside the cabin, both SUVs aim to deliver a premium and tech-forward experience. The Mahindra XUV700 takes a bold approach with its modern dashboard layout. One of its biggest highlights is the triple-screen setup that stretches across the dashboard, offering a futuristic look. The infotainment and instrument displays are complemented by a high-end audio system tuned for immersive sound quality. Voice assistance and connected car technology further enhance daily usability.
Comfort is another strong point for the XUV700. Features such as electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, ventilated seating for both front and rear passengers, and customizable ambient lighting elevate the overall cabin experience. Premium upholstery and thoughtful storage solutions make it suitable for long journeys with family.
The Tata Safari, on the other hand, focuses on a balance between technology and practicality. It offers a clean and functional dashboard layout with a fully digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen infotainment system. Smartphone connectivity, over-the-air software updates, and voice commands ensure that the Safari remains competitive in terms of digital features.
For passenger comfort, the Safari includes features like boss mode for rear-seat passengers, paddle shifters for a more engaging drive, multiple terrain modes, and dedicated air-conditioning vents for the third row. These elements make it a strong contender for buyers who prioritize comfort across all three rows.
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Safety has become a crucial factor in purchase decisions, and both SUVs take this aspect seriously. The Mahindra XUV700 is equipped with an extensive list of safety technologies, including multiple airbags, advanced driver assistance systems, and a surround-view camera setup that aids in parking and maneuvering. The engineering focus is clearly on achieving high crash safety ratings.
The Tata Safari also offers a solid safety package. It comes with multiple airbags, electronic stability systems, hill hold control, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and disc brakes on all wheels. While it may not match the sheer number of advanced assistance features found in the XUV700, it still delivers a reassuring level of safety for everyday use.
Engine Options and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Mahindra XUV700 provides greater flexibility. Buyers can choose between petrol and diesel engines, with the petrol option delivering strong performance figures suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. Transmission choices include manual and automatic gearboxes, and an all-wheel-drive option is available for those who need extra traction.
The Tata Safari has traditionally been known for its diesel engine, but the introduction of a petrol variant has broadened its appeal. The new turbo-petrol engine is designed to offer smooth performance and refined driving characteristics. Buyers can opt for either a manual or automatic transmission, although all-wheel drive is not available with the Safari.
Pricing and Variant Line-Up
Price plays a decisive role in this segment. The Tata Safari petrol range starts slightly lower than its Mahindra rival, making it attractive to cost-conscious buyers entering the premium SUV space. As you move up the variant ladder, prices increase steadily with the addition of comfort and technology features.
The Mahindra XUV700 starts at a slightly higher price point but justifies the premium with a wider range of powertrain options and advanced features. Its top-end variants are positioned competitively, especially considering the level of technology and safety on offer.
Final Verdict for Buyers
Choosing between these two SUVs ultimately depends on individual priorities. Buyers looking for a feature-rich, technology-focused SUV with multiple engine choices and advanced driver assistance systems may find the Mahindra XUV700 more appealing. On the other hand, those who value a commanding design, comfortable ride quality, and the reassurance of a newly introduced petrol option may lean towards the Tata Safari. Both vehicles represent strong value propositions in the seven-seater SUV category and are well-suited for Indian road conditions and family needs.