When it comes to premium SUVs in India, three names immediately come to mind – Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari 2025 facelift, and Mahindra Scorpio N. These vehicles have earned huge popularity for a reason. Each brings a unique combination of performance, comfort, and style to the table. But here’s the real question – if you are planning to buy one, which SUV actually suits your lifestyle and driving needs the most?
In this blog, I’ll break down everything you need to know: price, engine, mileage, comfort, interiors, safety, pros & cons, and finally, who should buy which SUV. I’ll also give you my personal insights so you can make an informed choice.
Price & Variants
The first thing most buyers look at is price. It’s not just about the sticker cost but also what you get for that price.
- Mahindra XUV700: Starts at ₹13.66 lakh and goes up to ₹25.14 lakh. It comes in both petrol and diesel variants and offers 5, 6, and 7-seater layouts, making it flexible for families of all sizes.
- Tata Safari 2025: Ranges from ₹14.66 lakh to ₹25.96 lakh. Diesel-only, with 6 and 7-seater options. The top trims are very premium and feel almost like a luxury SUV.
- Mahindra Scorpio N: Price starts at ₹13.20 lakh and goes up to ₹24.54 lakh. It comes in both petrol and diesel, offers 6 and 7-seater options, and higher trims come with 4X4 capability.
Quick insight: If you’re looking for the most affordable starting SUV, Scorpio N wins. If you want the top-end premium experience, Safari is the most luxurious. XUV700 sits comfortably in between, offering a balanced mix of price and features.
Engine & Performance
Performance is the heart of an SUV, and this is where differences become clear.
- Mahindra XUV700:
Comes with a 2.0L turbo petrol engine producing 197 bhp and 380 Nm torque, and a 2.2L diesel engine offering 153–182 bhp and up to 450 Nm torque. You get a 6-speed manual or automatic, with AWD available for higher trims. The XUV700 is quick off the line – 0–100 kmph in just 9.3 seconds, making it the sportiest SUV in this comparison. - Tata Safari 2025:
Powered only by a 2.0L Kryotec diesel engine delivering 168 bhp and 350 Nm torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or automatic with paddle shifters. It offers multiple drive modes (Eco, City, Sport) and terrain modes (Normal, Rough, Wet). The Safari focuses on smooth and comfortable driving, especially on highways, rather than outright speed. No petrol option or AWD is available. - Mahindra Scorpio N:
Offers a 2.0L turbo petrol engine with 200 bhp and 380 Nm torque and a 2.2L diesel engine producing 173–203 bhp and up to 400 Nm torque. It comes with a 6-speed manual or automatic and proper 4X4 with off-road modes, built on a rugged ladder-frame chassis. If you love off-roading or need a vehicle for rough terrains, Scorpio N is made for you.
Takeaway:
- XUV700: Sportiest and fastest, great for city and highway driving.
- Safari 2025: Smooth and comfortable, excellent for family trips.
- Scorpio N: Rugged and tough, perfect for adventure and rural roads.
Mileage (Real-World Driving)
Fuel efficiency matters, especially for daily commuting and long trips.
- XUV700: Offers 13–15.5 kmpl, but petrol automatic in city driving can drop to 7–8 kmpl.
- Safari 2025: Gives 14.5–16.3 kmpl, making it the most fuel-efficient of the three.
- Scorpio N: Ranges between 12–15 kmpl. Diesel variants are better, while petrol can feel slightly thirsty.
So if you prioritize mileage for city or highway use, Safari 2025 is the clear winner.
Comfort & Interiors
An SUV is not just about speed; it’s also about how comfortable and enjoyable it is to ride in.
- Mahindra XUV700: Comes with twin 10.24-inch screens for infotainment and digital cluster, Alexa voice control, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and Sony 12-speaker 3D audio. The ride is slightly firm at low speeds, but the cabin is tech heaven for gadget lovers.
- Tata Safari 2025: Features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, full digital cluster, gesture-controlled tailgate, dual-zone AC, and boss mode rear seats. It has a soft suspension, making it very comfortable for long drives, and the interiors feel premium and spacious.
- Mahindra Scorpio N: Sports an 8-inch infotainment system, Sony audio in top trims, and durable interiors. Tall seating provides a commanding road view. The ride can get bouncy at high speeds, but it’s built to handle tough roads effortlessly.
Who should pick what:
- Tech lovers: XUV700
- Family comfort & premium feel: Safari 2025
- Utility & rugged adventures: Scorpio N
Safety
Safety is critical, and all three SUVs score high here.
- XUV700: 5-star Global NCAP rating, 7 airbags, ADAS Level 2, AWD option.
- Safari 2025: Dual 5-star Global + Bharat NCAP ratings, 7 airbags including driver knee airbag, ADAS, built on a Land Rover OMEGARC platform.
- Scorpio N: 5-star Global NCAP, 6 airbags, ladder-frame chassis, and 4X4 provides added off-road safety.
In short, all three SUVs are very safe. The Safari impresses with dual NCAP ratings, XUV700 shines with advanced ADAS tech, and Scorpio N gives a rugged, confident feel on rough roads.
Pros & Cons
Mahindra XUV700
Pros: Petrol and diesel options, strong performance, tech-loaded cabin, AWD available
Cons: Petrol automatic mileage is low, third row is cramped, ride slightly firm in city
Tata Safari 2025
Pros: Bold, premium interiors, most comfortable for families, best mileage, excellent safety ratings
Cons: Diesel-only, no AWD, service quality can vary
Mahindra Scorpio N
Pros: True SUV with ladder-frame & 4X4, commanding driving position, durable interiors, rugged build, affordable starting price
Cons: Interiors not as premium, smaller infotainment screen, ride bouncy at high speeds
Final Verdict – Which SUV Should You Pick?
- Mahindra XUV700: Perfect for those who want a blend of performance, tech, and petrol/diesel flexibility. Great for city driving, highways, and occasional rough-road adventures.
- Tata Safari 2025: Best for families looking for comfort, premium feel, long-trip usability, and top safety. It’s the SUV you’ll enjoy for years of family journeys.
- Mahindra Scorpio N: Ideal for those who want a rugged, adventure-ready SUV. If your priority is toughness, off-road capability, and reliability over luxury, this is your pick.
In short:
- XUV700 = Tech + Performance
- Safari 2025 = Comfort + Premium Family SUV
- Scorpio N = Rugged + Adventure SUV
Conclusion
Choosing the right SUV is more than just looking at the price tag. You need to consider your driving style, family needs, and where you will use the vehicle the most.
- If you love modern tech, fast performance, and AWD versatility, XUV700 is unmatched.
- If you prioritize family comfort, premium interiors, and fuel efficiency, Safari 2025 takes the crown.
- If you want toughness, off-road ability, and a true SUV feel, Scorpio N is your perfect companion.
No matter which one you pick, all three are top choices in their segment and have carved a niche for themselves. Make your choice based on what matters most to you – performance, comfort, or ruggedness.
