Mahindra XUV700 2024 vs Tata Safari 2023: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 22-25 Lakh for Off-roading Enthusiasts
Off the beaten track lies adventure. The off-roading enthusiast, for that reason, is looking only for the best off-road cars, or top SUVs for off-roading in India. Today, we look at the Mahindra XUV700 2024 and Tata Safari 2023, and find out what makes them off-road worthy vehicles in India.
In this article, we will share
- What an off-roading enthusiast looks for in a car
- Mahindra XUV700 2024 vs Tata Safari 2023 – an in-depth look at their variants, features, and off-roading capabilities
- How to pick the right car for you
So, can these cars handle water-wading, rough or muddy terrains, or traverse through sand? Are they capable of mild to serious off-roading? Let’s find out.
What an Off-roading Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as an off-roading enthusiast:
- Drive system – What drive system does the vehicle have (FWD, AWD, or 4X4)
- Ground clearance – the car should have high ground clearance to tackle uneven terrains
- Low range gearing – the car should have low range gearing to allow the vehicle to drive at lower speeds while still operating the usable power band/RPM of the entire engine
- Locking differential – the vehicle should have differential locking for better traction when driving on soft, muddy or uneven surfaces
- Engine power and torque – the engine should have adequate power and generate enough torque
- Safety – safety features are important, especially when traveling through challenging terrains
- Comfort and convenience – the vehicle should offer good comfort, as well as convenience features
An offroading enthusiast prioritizes a car’s ability to tackle challenging terrains. Key factors include high ground clearance, 4×4 or AWD drivetrain, low-range gearing, differential locks, robust suspension, and underbody protection.
Capable diesel engines with strong low-end torque, rugged tires, and electronic aids like hill descent control and offroad ABS are important too. A spacious cabin to carry gear and good all-round visibility are also crucial for an enjoyable offroading experience.
Why Mahindra XUV700 2024 and Tata Safari 2023 are popular
The Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari have earned a reputation for their offroading capabilities. Both SUVs come with a monocoque chassis but with reinforced suspension, high ground clearance, and AWD drivetrains (in select variants) to handle rough terrain.
The XUV700’s 2.2L mHawk diesel engine, available with manual and automatic transmissions, produces a strong 420 Nm / 450 Nm torque. The Safari’s 2.0L Kryotec diesel belts out 350 Nm. This low-end grunt helps them tackle steep inclines and deep ruts with ease.
Both SUVs get offroad-friendly electronics like terrain modes, hill descent control, and a rear locking differential (in the XUV700 AWD) to enhance traction. Their high stance, short overhangs, and 200 mm ground clearance allow them to clear obstacles without damage.
The spacious cabins with large boots also make the XUV700 and Safari practical for carrying camping gear, spares, and equipment for an offroad expedition. Tata and Mahindra’s wide service network and focus on building durable vehicles further make them trusted choices for enthusiasts.
Mahindra XUV700 2024 and Tata Safari 2023 variants shortlist in Rs 22-25 lakh range
For Mahindra XUV700 2024, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 13 March 2024 |
|---|---|
| AX7 AWD Diesel AT | ₹24,78,000 |
| AX7 6 Str Diesel | ₹22,04,000 |
For Tata Safari 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 13 March 2024 |
|---|---|
| Adventure Plus | ₹22,49,000 |
| Accomplished | ₹23,99,000 |
Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT variant is the most capable offroader here. It packs a 2.2L diesel engine with 182 BHP / 450 Nm, a 6-speed torque converter automatic, an on-demand AWD system, a rear locking differential, and drive modes for various terrains. The 200 mm ground clearance and robust suspension allow it to take on challenging trails with ease. You can also read our guide to the best XUV700 2024 variants for family-focused car buyers.
Mahindra XUV700 AX7 6 Str Diesel
The XUV700 AX7 Diesel MT variant is a more affordable option for those who prefer a manual. It gets the same 2.2L diesel engine but with 420 Nm torque and a 6-speed manual gearbox. While it misses out on AWD, it still gets drive modes, 200 mm ground clearance, and a capable FWD drivetrain to handle mild offroading. If you’re a gadget enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the XUV700 2024 with MG Hector.
Tata Safari Adventure Plus
The Tata Safari Adventure Plus variant is aimed at those who want a rugged SUV with some offroad chops. It gets a 2.0L diesel engine with 167 BHP / 350 Nm, a 6-speed manual gearbox, an ESP-based Rough Road and Wet mode, and 200 mm ground clearance. The suspension is also tuned for better articulation over rocks and ruts. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the Safari 2023 with Toyota Innova Hycross.
Tata Safari Accomplished
The Safari Accomplished variant builds upon the Adventure trim with added features and front parking sensors. It gets a 6-way power-adjustable driver seat, 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment, a subwoofer, and a wireless phone charger. These features make it a more comfortable daily driver without compromising its offroad ability.
Our Pick for the Best variant among Mahindra XUV700 2024 and Tata Safari 2023 for Offroading Enthusiasts
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT is the best variant for offroading enthusiasts. It combines a capable AWD drivetrain with electronic aids, robust suspension, and ample ground clearance to tackle challenging terrains.
The 2.2L diesel engine produces 182 BHP power and 450 Nm torque, providing strong low-end grunt. The 6-speed automatic gearbox is responsive and gets a manual mode to hold gears when needed. The AWD system splits torque variably between the front and rear axles, while the rear locking differential ensures both wheels get equal traction.
Further, the XUV700 gets drive modes for Sand, Mud, and Snow that alter the throttle response, steering weight, and traction control to suit the terrain. The ESP-based Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control make climbing and descending steep slopes easy. With its 200 mm ground clearance, short overhangs, and tough suspension, the XUV700 can clear obstacles and absorb the rough stuff without breaking a sweat.
Inside, the spacious cabin with 7 seats, large boot, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and 12-speaker Sony audio make it a comfortable place to be in. The 360-degree cameras and front and rear parking sensors aid maneuverability in tight trails. With its blend of offroad hardware, electronic aids, and premium features, the XUV700 AX7 AWD AT is a formidable choice for offroading.
The Top 3 choices
- Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT
- Mahindra XUV700 AX7 Diesel MT
- Tata Safari Adventure Plus
| Attributes | XUV700 AX7 AWD AT | XUV700 AX7 MT | Safari Adventure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 mm Ground Clearance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AWD/4×4 Drivetrain | Yes | No | No |
| Rear Diff Lock | Yes | No | No |
| Drive Modes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD AT is our top recommendation for offroading enthusiasts. Its AWD system, rear locking differential, drive modes, and 200 mm ground clearance give it the tools to conquer any trail. The spacious and premium cabin also makes it a great daily driver.
- The XUV700 AX7 Diesel MT follows closely behind with the same chassis and suspension setup. The 420 Nm torque output and 6-speed manual make it an engaging drive. For those on a tighter budget, it offers most of the AX7 AWD’s offroad chops and creature comforts.
- For those who want a rugged body-on-frame SUV, the Safari Adventure Plus is a capable choice. Its 350 Nm torque output, ESP-based drive modes, 200 mm ground clearance, and tough suspension allow it to handle rough trails with ease. The spacious 7-seat cabin with premium features makes it a practical choice.
The XUV700 AX7 AWD AT, XUV700 AX7 MT, and Safari Adventure Plus offer varying levels of offroad capability, features, and comfort at different price points. The XUV700’s AWD and electronic aids give it an edge for hardcore trails while the Safari’s tough body-on-frame build makes it a reliable companion. Together, they make for an exciting range of options for offroading enthusiasts to choose from.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.