KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Tata Safari comes with only one engine option, which is a gas guzzler.
- Innova Hycross is the most fuel-efficient vehicle here, with an ARAI mileage of 23.34 km/l.
- Mahindra XUV700 is available in a total of 48 variants
- Check out this comparison between the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, and Toyota Innova Hycross.
The Tata Safari is a premium 7-seater SUV that received a facelift in early 2024, turning out to be a game changer for the Tata brand. Sales increased, and segment leader Mahindra XUV700 had to launch new affordable variants and add more features to keep up with the competition. There's another rival, which is not an SUV but can do almost everything: the Toyota Innova Hycross. While it's a significant upgrade from the Innova Crysta, the overall quality has deteriorated.
So, does the Safari is the best option here? let's find out. Meanwhile make sure to join 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel to never miss out on automotive updates.
Also Read: 2024 Tata Safari Pros And Cons: Should You Buy it?
Tata Safari VS Mahindra XUV700 VS Toyota Innova Hycross: Price Difference
The Tata Safari starts at Rs 15.49 lakh ex-showroom, with the top model priced at Rs 27.34 lakh. There are a total of 29 variants of this SUV, divided between personalized trims and 6- or 7-seater options.
The Mahindra XUV700 starts at Rs 13.99 lakh for its base model, with a total of 48 variants available. These variants are divided between petrol and diesel engines, multiple transmission options, and with the 2024 update, the XUV700 also features captain seats in the second row. The top trim of this SUV is priced at Rs 26.04 lakh.
The most expensive vehicle here is the Toyota Innova Hycross, which starts at Rs 18.92 lakh. After 11 more models, the top variant costs Rs 30.98 lakh ex-showroom. The Hycross is a hybrid vehicle and boasts an impressive mileage of 23.24 km/l.
Tata Safari VS Mahindra XUV700 VS Toyota Innova Hycross: Dimensions
Size matters when it comes to buying SUVs. The bigger the dimensions, the better the road presence, which also speaks to status - another key reason customers choose these vehicles. That said, the Innova Hycross is the longest vehicle here, followed by the XUV700. However, the Safari is the most dominating vehicle with its tall height. Additionally, the Safari looks the most modern and is the biggest head-turner among these three. Let's check out the dimensions via a table to better understand these vehicles.
| Dimensions | Tata Safari | Mahindra XUV700 | Toyota Innova Hycross |
| Length | 4668 mm | 4695 mm | 4755 mm |
| Width | 1922 mm | 1890 mm | 1845 mm |
| Height | 1795 mm | 1755 mm | 1795 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2741 mm | 2750 mm | 2850 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 420 L (After folding 3rd row) | 240 L | 300 L |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm | 200 mm | 185 mm |
So, if space is your priority and you want a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate your family along with lots of luggage, there is no better option than the Innova Hycross. It is the biggest car here and also has the longest wheelbase, which translates to excellent second-row legroom.
On the other hand, the Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV700 are almost identical in terms of dimensions, so the difference isn't significant. However, the boot space in the Safari after the third row is likely very limited, which might be why the exact figure isn't mentioned in their brochure.
Tata Safari VS Mahindra XUV700 VS Toyota Innova Hycross: Features
In terms of features, each vehicle is on par, and it's hard to say which one offers more since they all have almost the same set of amenities. However, when it comes to the second row, where the Safari and XUV700 offer little, the Innova Hycross stands out. It comes with first-in-class powered Ottoman seats with a long slide, which you can recline and transform into a bed, allowing you to sleep comfortably for long hours. Additionally, the second row also gets its own AC controls, which aren't limited to just adjusting the fan speed. In contrast, the Safari and XUV700 don't offer this feature.
Now, let's take a look at the features that are common in these three cars:
- Panaromic Sunroof
- Captain Seats
- Dual-zone Climate Control
- Infotainemnt Screen
- Digital drivers display
- Premium sound system
- Cruise Control
- ADAS
- Rear Sunshade
- Third row ac vents
- Ambient lightning
- Ventialted Seats
- Power adjustable driver seats
- FWD
- 6 Airbags
- Electronic parking brake with auto hold
Tata Safari VS Mahindra XUV700 VS Toyota Innova Hycross: Powertrains
The Tata Safari comes with only one engine option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel Kryotec engine that produces 170 PS and 350 Nm of torque. It is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Despite being called a legendary SUV, this model of the Safari does not offer a 4x4 option; the only drivetrain available is FWD.
On the other hand, the Mahindra XUV700 is available with two engines: a petrol engine and a diesel engine, both turbocharged. The diesel engine comes with different tuning options. The 6-speed automatic transmission is a torque converter, which extracts more torque. Also, this is only vehicle here to provide AWD option. Let's check out the figures to better understand this statement.
- 2.0 L Petrol Engine -
- 199 Ps and 380 Nm of torque both with 6 MT and 6 AT
- 2.2 L Diesel Engine -
- 154 Ps and 360 Nm of torque. 6 MT and 6 AT
- 184 Ps and 420 Nm with a 6 MT
- 184 Ps and 450 Nm with 6 AT
The Toyota Innova Hycross is the only hybrid car in this lineup, which helps it achieve a mileage of over 23 km/l. This is impressive given the size of the car; without the hybrid system, it would be difficult to achieve even 17 km/l on average. Regarding the engines, the non-hybrid versions come with a 2.0-liter petrol engine that produces 172 PS and 209 Nm of torque and is available with a CVT.
The second option is the hybrid, which includes a battery combined with a 2.0-liter engine, producing 183.7 PS and 206 Nm of torque. The transmission is an e-drive with sequential shifts (CVT).
Also Read: Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder VS Rivals: Better Than Creta And Elevate?
Verdict
The Tata Safari offers superior ride comfort, spacious seats, a high-tech interior, and a status in society above the Innova Hycross and XUV700, all due to its behemoth size. The front end looks like an art piece, with a grille featuring body-colored elements that make it look rich at first glance. The Mahindra XUV700 is the oldest vehicle in the lineup, but its timeless design will look charming even after 10 years. However, even after the 2024 update, the automaker didn't add wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a disappointment.
As for the Hycross, it is a perfect vehicle for chauffeur-driven individuals who prioritize comfort above all. In addition to its hybrid technology and more, this is a Toyota vehicle, which means reliability at its best.
