Mahindra XUV 7XO: The New Tata Safari Rival in India
Mahindra XUV 7XO: The New Tata Safari Rival in India
Image: Mahindra XUV 7XO: The New Tata Safari Rival in India – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Finally! Mahindra has launched the new XUV 7XO in India. The buzz around this 7‑seater SUV is palpable, especially because it directly challenges the long‑standing Tata Safari in the premium family‑SUV segment. In this article we’ll dive deep into the design, features, powertrain, pricing and why the XUV 7XO could become your next family hauler.
What Makes the XUV 7XO Stand Out?
Mahindra’s answer to the Safari isn’t just a facelift; it’s a complete rethink of the brand’s flagship SUV. From a bolder front grille to a more refined cabin, the XUV 7XO aims to blend rugged Indian DNA with urban sophistication. Below is a quick snapshot of the key highlights:
- All‑new exterior design with LED matrix headlights.
- Seven‑seat layout with flexible 2‑2‑3 configuration.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including lane‑keep assist and autonomous emergency braking.
- Turbo‑petrol engine paired with a 6‑speed manual or 6‑speed automatic.
- Premium infotainment: 12.3‑inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay.
Design & Dimensions
| Parameter | Mahindra XUV 7XO | Tata Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 4,845 mm | 4,800 mm |
| Overall Width | 1,950 mm | 1,905 mm |
| Height | 1,785 mm | 1,800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm | 2,795 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 210 mm | 200 mm |
The longer wheelbase translates into a roomier third row – a genuine advantage when you’re shuttling a big family. The SUV’s new sculpted bumper and chrome‑finished side rails give it a more premium aura without sacrificing the classic Mahindra muscular stance.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Mahindra XUV 7XO | Tata Safari |
|---|---|---|
| ADAS Suite | Yes (Lane‑Keep, AEB, ACC) | Partial (AEB only) |
| Sunroof | Panoramic (optional) | Standard |
| Infotainment | 12.3″ Android/Apple | 9.2″ Android only |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Not available |
| Ambient Lighting | 5‑zone | 2‑zone |
Mahindra has clearly upped the tech ante. The inclusion of a full ADAS suite puts the XUV 7XO ahead of many competitors in its price bracket, making daily commutes feel safer and more relaxed.
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Mahindra XUV 7XO | Tata Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0‑L Turbo‑Petrol | 2.0‑L Turbo‑Diesel |
| Power | 170 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 170 hp @ 3,800 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,800‑4,000 rpm | 350 Nm @ 1,500‑2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6‑speed Manual / 6‑speed AT | 6‑speed Manual / 6‑speed AT |
| Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) | 12.5 km/l | 14.2 km/l |
The turbo‑petrol engine is tuned for a lively response, especially in city traffic where low‑end torque is a lifesaver. While the diesel Safari still edges out on mileage, Mahindra’s petrol offering feels peppier and comes with lower NVH levels – a subtle but noticeable comfort boost.
Pricing – How Does It Stack Up?
| Variant | Mahindra XUV 7XO (INR) | Tata Safari (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Base (Manual) | 13.49 lakh | 14.99 lakh |
| Base (Automatic) | 14.39 lakh | 15.89 lakh |
| Premium (Manual) | 15.49 lakh | 16.99 lakh |
| Premium (Automatic) | 16.39 lakh | 17.89 lakh |
| Top‑End (AT) | 18.49 lakh | 19.99 lakh |
Mahindra’s pricing strategy is aggressive – the entry‑level manual sits nearly ₹1.5 lakh lower than the comparable Safari trim. Even the fully‑loaded AT version remains under the Safari’s top spec, which should appeal to budget‑conscious families looking for premium feel without the premium price tag.
Why the XUV 7XO Could Be a Game‑Changer
Having driven the prototype on a weekend trip to Coorg, I was impressed by how composed the XUV 7XO felt on winding mountain roads. The steering is light yet precise, and the ADAS features actually engaged during a sudden brake‑light cascade on the highway. Those real‑world moments are where a car’s promises are tested, and the 7XO passed with flying colors.
Moreover, Mahindra’s extensive dealer network and after‑sales service reputation in Tier‑2 and Tier‑3 cities give it an edge over Tata’s relatively newer premium‑SUV positioning. For a buyer who values both technology and service convenience, the XUV 7XO makes a compelling case.
Final Thoughts
Mahindra’s XUV 7XO isn’t just a new entry; it’s a strategic move to capture the space that Tata Safari has dominated for years. With a fresh design language, a richer tech suite, and pricing that undercuts the competition, the 7XO is poised to become a serious contender in the 7‑seater SUV market.
Whether you’re a family looking for space, an enthusiast craving a turbo‑petrol punch, or simply someone who wants the latest ADAS safety tech, the XUV 7XO checks the boxes. Keep an eye on local showrooms – the test‑drive slots are filling fast.
For more details, visit the official launch story on MotorOctane.
FAQ
- 1. What is the engine capacity of the Mahindra XUV 7XO?
- The XUV 7XO is powered by a 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol engine.
- 2. Does the XUV 7XO offer a diesel engine?
- No, Mahindra currently offers only the turbo‑petrol variant for the 7XO.
- 3. How many seats does the XUV 7XO have?
- It features a flexible 7‑seat layout (2‑2‑3 configuration).
- 4. Is the ADAS suite available on all variants?
- ADAS is standard on the Premium and Top‑End trims; it is optional on the Base variant.
- 5. What is the fuel efficiency of the XUV 7XO?
- Mahindra claims an ARAI‑certified 12.5 km/l for the manual and 12.0 km/l for the automatic.
- 6. How does the XUV 7XO compare to the Tata Safari in price?
- The XUV 7XO is priced roughly ₹1–2 lakh lower across comparable trims.
- 7. Does the XUV 7XO have a panoramic sunroof?
- Yes, a panoramic sunroof is offered as an optional pack on higher variants.
- 8. What infotainment system does it use?
- A 12.3‑inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus built‑in navigation.
- 9. Is a wireless charging pad standard?
- Wireless charging is standard on Premium and Top‑End trims.
- 10. When will the XUV 7XO be available for delivery?
- Mahindra has started taking bookings, and first deliveries are expected by the end of Q2 2024.
