What are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What makes them high-performance car models? Today, we are looking at the Mahindra XUV700 2024 and Tata Safari 2023. Let’s see how their variants compare with each other in terms of performance.
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Mahindra XUV700 2024 vs Tata Safari 2023 – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
What a Performance Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
A performance enthusiast prioritizes a car’s driving dynamics and powertrain. Key factors include a powerful engine with quick acceleration, precise steering, responsive brakes, and agile handling.
They also look for sporty design elements like aggressive bumpers, large alloy wheels, and dual exhaust tips. A well-tuned suspension that minimizes body roll, advanced transmission with quick shifts, and dynamic drive modes are important too. Features like paddle shifters, sport seats, and a rich exhaust note further elevate the driving experience.
Why Mahindra XUV700 2024 and Tata Safari 2023 are popular
The Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari have struck a chord with performance enthusiasts thanks to their potent engine options and dynamic handling.
The XUV700 is available with a 2.0L turbo-petrol engine producing 200 PS / 380 Nm and a 2.2L diesel belting out 185 PS / 420 Nm (MT) and 450 Nm (AT). Paired with responsive automatics and an optional AWD system, they make the XUV700 properly quick. The Safari carries forward the 2.0L Kryotec diesel from the Harrier with 170 PS / 350 Nm. While down on power, it still feels eager to drive.
In terms of handling, both SUVs get a monocoque chassis with well-tuned suspension and steering. This allows them to tackle corners with confidence, especially the XUV700 with its optional AWD and drive modes. The Safari impresses with its planted high-speed manners and agile handling despite its size.
Features like auto turn indicators, electronic parking brake, wireless charging, Sony 3D sound system, and large panoramic sunroof further attracts enthusiasts looking for a premium driving experience. Mahindra and Tata’s focus on making their flagship SUVs exciting to drive has clearly paid off with these models.
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 AT Luxury Pack | ₹24,72,000 |
For Tata Safari 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 13 March 2024 |
| Adventure Plus A AT | ₹24,89,000 |
| Accomplished | ₹23,99,000 |
Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT variant is the range-topping performance model. It packs a 2.2L diesel engine producing a class-leading 185 PS power and 450 Nm torque. The responsive 6-speed torque converter automatic and AWD system with drive modes make it properly quick and dynamic to drive.
Features like adaptive cruise control, electronic parking brake, wireless charging, and dual-zone climate control provide premium comfort. You can also read our guide to the best XUV700 2024 variants for family-focused car buyers.
Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AT Luxury Pack
The XUV700 AX7 AT Luxury Pack variant is aimed at petrol-head who want strong performance without compromising on comfort. It gets a 2.0L turbo-petrol with 200 PS power and 380 Nm torque, making it the most powerful petrol SUV in the segment. The 6-speed automatic is responsive and smooth.
While it misses AWD, the FWD setup still feels engaging to drive. The 12-speaker Sony 3D sound system, 360-degree camera, driver drowsiness alert, and flush door handles make it a techno-powerhouse. If you’re a gadget enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the XUV700 2024 with MG Hector.
Tata Safari Adventure Plus A AT
The Tata Safari Adventure Plus A AT variant is the most driver-focussed Safari. It gets a 2.0L diesel engine producing 170 PS power and 350 Nm torque. The numbers might not be segment-leading but the engine feels eager and refined. The 6-speed AT is also smooth and responsive.
The Safari’s agile handling and sorted suspension make it fun to push around corners. Features like an electric parking brake, wireless charging, connected car tech, and a subwoofer enhance the experience. If you enjoy long drives, you can read our comparison of the Safari 2023 with MG Hector Plus and Hyundai Alcazar.
Tata Safari Accomplished
The Safari Accomplished variant is for enthusiasts who want strong diesel performance with a 6-speed manual transmission for a more engaging experience. It gets the same 2.0L diesel as the AT but with the slick 6-speed manual.
The Safari’s light clutch and precise shifts make it a joy to drive. Unique features include a 12.3-inch infotainment system, ventilated seats, wireless charging, 6-way power driver seat, and 4 colour ambient lighting.
Our Pick for the Best variant among Mahindra XUV700 2024 and Tata Safari 2023 for Performance Enthusiasts
The Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT is the best variant for performance enthusiasts. It combines segment-leading diesel performance with the dynamic abilities of an AWD drivetrain and advanced driver assistance tech.
The 2.2L mHawk diesel engine produces a mighty 185 PS power and 450 Nm torque, enabling quick acceleration and confident overtaking. The 6-speed automatic is quick to respond and offers manual shifts via the paddle shifters. In Dynamic mode, it holds gears longer for spirited driving. The AWD drivetrain with drive modes allows one to tailor the driving experience based on terrain and mood.
The XUV700’s light steering, agile handling and controlled body movements belie its size. The suspension ably soaks up bumps while remaining pliant for an engaging drive. Features like adaptive cruise control, dynamic turn indicators, a large panoramic sunroof, 12-speaker Sony audio and flush-fitting door handles provide a premium experience.
With its blend of strong diesel performance, AWD dynamics, advanced tech and premium features, the XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT is a formidable performance SUV to experience.
The Top 3 choices
- Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT
- Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AT Luxury Pack
- Tata Safari Adventure Plus A AT
| Attributes | XUV700 AX7 AWD AT | XUV700 AX7 AT LUX | Safari Adventure AT |
| 170+ PS Power | Yes | Yes | No |
| 400+ Nm Torque | Yes | No | No |
| AWD Drivetrain | Yes | No | No |
| 10+ Speaker Audio | Yes | Yes | No |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Mahindra XUV700 AX7 AWD Diesel AT is our top pick for performance enthusiasts. Its powerful engine, responsive gearbox, agile AWD dynamics and advanced driver aids make every drive a thrilling experience. As the flagship XUV, it packs in the best of what Mahindra has to offer.
- The XUV700 AX7 AT Luxury Pack is a close second for those who want the punch of a turbo-petrol and the finesse of a luxury SUV. The 2.0L petrol is smooth, refined and proper quick. The feature-laden cabin with 12-speaker audio, dual-zone climate control and 360-degree camera elevate the experience.
- For those who want a tough, go-anywhere SUV with ample performance, the Safari Adventure Plus AT is a capable pick. The 2.0L diesel and 6-speed AT offer ample punch while the Safari’s size and road presence make every drive feel special. The AWD system, though not as advanced as the XUV’s, is capable off the road too.
The XUV700 AX7 AWD AT, XUV700 AX7 AT Luxury Pack and Safari Adventure AT offer different flavors of performance. The AX7 AWD is the outright quick SUV with solid diesel punch and AWD dynamics. The Luxury Pack is for those who like their thrills smooth and luxurious. The Safari AT suits those who want a tough SUV with adequate performance for all occasions. With their unique blend of power, features and driving character, these variants are sure to keep enthusiasts happy.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
