If you’ve been shopping for a seven-seater SUV in India lately, chances are you’ve already landed between the Mahindra XUV700 and the Tata Safari. Both are serious contenders, both look great in the driveway, and both will comfortably seat the whole family. The real question is, which one makes more sense for you in 2026?
Having looked closely at both, here’s an honest breakdown.
Price
The XUV700 starts at a slightly lower price, which immediately gives it an edge for buyers who want maximum features without going overboard.
| Model | Starting Price | Top Variant |
| Mahindra XUV700 | ₹14.49 lakh | ₹26.99 lakh |
| Tata Safari | ₹15.50 lakh | ₹27.25 lakh |
Engine and Performance
This is where the XUV700 pulls ahead quite clearly. It gives you the option of a petrol engine, something the Safari simply doesn’t offer. On the diesel side, the XUV700’s 2.2L mHawk punches out 185 PS and 450 Nm of torque, a noticeable step up from the Safari’s 170 PS and 350 Nm. For highway drives or overtaking on open roads, that difference is real.
| Specification | Mahindra XUV700 | Tata Safari |
| Petrol Engine | 2.0L Turbo Petrol | Not Available |
| Diesel Engine | 2.2L mHawk | 2.0L Kryotec |
| Power (Diesel) | Up to 185 PS | 170 PS |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Transmission | 6MT / 6AT | 6MT / 6AT |
Interior and Comfort
This is genuinely where the two cars diverge in personality. The Safari feels more relaxed and premium inside, the kind of cabin that long-distance passengers appreciate. The XUV700 leans more into technology, with its dual digital displays and a cockpit-style dashboard that feels modern and fresh.
Neither is a bad choice here. It just depends on whether your family values a plush lounge feel or a feature-forward environment.
Features
Both SUVs are well-equipped across their top variants, matching each other on most major features.
| Feature | XUV700 | Safari |
| Dual 10.25-inch Screens | ✔ | ✔ |
| Panoramic Sunroof | ✔ | ✔ |
| Ventilated Seats | ✔ | ✔ |
| Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay | ✔ | ✔ |
| 360-degree Camera | ✔ | ✔ |
| Level 2 ADAS | ✔ | ✔ |
| Premium Audio | Sony | JBL |
Safety
Both earn top marks here. The XUV700 holds a 5-star Global NCAP rating; the Safari carries a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. The standard safety kit—multiple airbags, ESC, Hill Hold, ISOFIX mounts, and ADAS—comes on both. Call this one a draw.
Mileage
Nearly identical in real-world conditions, with both returning around 16–17 km/l on diesel.
Ride Quality
The Safari handles broken roads with a noticeably softer suspension setup, great for city driving and long highway runs where comfort matters most. The XUV700 feels more spirited and planted at higher speeds, with more responsive steering.
So, Which One Should You Buy?
In the Mahindra XUV700 vs Tata Safari 2026 comparison, the XUV700 comes out ahead on most measurable parameters: lower entry price, stronger engine, petrol option, and a feature set that’s hard to beat in this segment.
That said, the Safari has a loyal following for good reasons. If a premium cabin feel, effortless comfort, and relaxed touring are what your family wants, it remains an excellent choice.
Think about how your family actually uses a car and let that guide the decision rather than the spec sheet alone.
Read More:-Used Hyundai Creta Buying Guide 2026
Rajababu Kushwaha is the Founder and Editor of AutoCrest. He covers the latest car news, reviews, comparisons, EV updates, and buying guides for Indian car buyers.