What are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What defines a high-performance car model? We compare Tata Safari 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 2024, and see how their variants fare in terms of performance.
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Tata Safari 2023 vs Mahindra XUV700 2024 – 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 vehicle’s ability to deliver exhilarating driving experiences. Key factors include a powerful engine with quick responsiveness and linear power delivery, a smooth and precise transmission, and agile handling with minimal body roll.
Performance enthusiasts also value a well-tuned suspension that provides excellent high-speed stability and a sporty exhaust note. Additionally, features like advanced traction control systems, performance tires, and aerodynamic enhancements contribute to a car’s overall performance appeal.
Why Tata Safari 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 2024 are Popular
The Tata Safari 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 2024 have gained popularity among performance enthusiasts due to their impressive engine options and dynamic driving characteristics.
The Safari, known for its robust build quality and comfortable ride, offers a powerful 2.0-liter diesel engine that delivers 167.62 BHP and 350 Nm of torque. The engine’s linear power delivery and quick responsiveness make it a delight to drive, especially on highways.
The Mahindra XUV700, on the other hand, has taken the market by storm with its potent 2.0-liter petrol engine that churns out an impressive 197.13 BHP and 380 Nm of torque. The XUV700’s advanced suspension setup and minimal body roll provide a perfect blend of performance and comfort.
The vehicle’s spacious and well-appointed interior, along with its aggressive styling, adds to its appeal among performance enthusiasts who seek a balance between practicality and driving excitement.
Tata Safari 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 2024 Variants Shortlist in Rs 15-18 Lakh Range
For Mahindra XUV700 2024, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 9 April 2024 |
| AX3 | ₹1,651,000 |
| AX5 | ₹1,784,000 |
For Tata Safari 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 9 April 2024 |
| Smart | ₹1,619,000 |
| Smart (O) | ₹1,669,000 |
| Pure | ₹1,769,000 |
Mahindra XUV700 AX3
This variant is an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts who desire a powerful petrol engine. The 2.0-liter engine delivers an impressive 197.13 BHP and 380 Nm of torque, providing quick acceleration and linear power delivery. The AX3 variant also offers a smooth-shifting manual transmission, allowing the driver to have full control over the engine’s power. If you enjoy long drives, you can read our comparison of the XUV700 2024 with Mahindra Scorpio-N.
Mahindra XUV700 AX5
The AX5 variant builds upon the performance credentials of the AX3 by adding more features and enhancements. It comes equipped with the same potent 2.0-liter petrol engine, along with additional features like LED headlights, cornering lamps, and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. The AX5’s alloy wheels and metallic paint finish add to its sporty appeal. If you’re an off-roading enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the XUV700 2024 with Isuzu V-Cross.
Tata Safari Smart
Powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine, the Safari Smart variant offers a balance of performance and efficiency. The engine produces 167.62 BHP and 350 Nm of torque, providing ample power for both city and highway driving. The Smart variant comes equipped with features like alloy wheels, a smooth manual transmission, and a well-designed interior that enhances the overall driving experience. If you’re safety conscious, you can read our comparison of the Safari 2023 with Maruti Suzuki Invicto.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Tata Safari 2023 and Mahindra XUV700 2024 for Performance Enthusiasts
After carefully analyzing the attributes and features of the shortlisted variants, we recommend the Mahindra XUV700 AX5 as the best option for performance enthusiasts.
The XUV700 AX5 is powered by a 2.0-liter petrol engine that delivers an impressive 197.13 BHP and 380 Nm of torque. This engine offers quick acceleration and linear power delivery, making it a joy to drive on both city streets and open highways. The smooth-shifting manual transmission allows the driver to have full control over the engine’s power, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The AX5 variant also comes equipped with advanced features that contribute to its performance appeal. The LED headlights and cornering lamps provide excellent visibility during night drives, while the larger touchscreen infotainment system keeps the driver connected and entertained. The alloy wheels and metallic paint finish add to the vehicle’s sporty and aggressive look.
In terms of handling, the XUV700 AX5 offers a stable and confident ride, thanks to its advanced suspension setup and minimal body roll. The vehicle’s agility and responsiveness make it a delight to drive on winding roads, while the excellent high-speed stability ensures a comfortable and secure feel on highways.
Overall, the Mahindra XUV700 AX5’s combination of a powerful engine, advanced features, and dynamic driving characteristics make it the best choice for performance enthusiasts among the compared variants.
The Top 3 Choices
- Mahindra XUV700 AX5
- Mahindra XUV700 AX3
- Tata Safari Smart
| Attribute | XUV700 AX5 | XUV700 AX3 | Safari Smart |
| Engine – power (BHP) | 197.13 | 197.13 | 167.62 |
| Engine – Torque (Nm) | 380 | 380 | 350 |
| Transmission – # of gears | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Turbocharging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ESC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | No | No | Yes |
| LED Headlights | Yes | No | Yes |
| Cornering headlamps | Yes | No | No |
| Airbags (number) | 4 | 2 | 6 |
| Knee/curtain airbags | No | No | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Mahindra XUV700 AX5 takes the top spot with its powerful 2.0-liter petrol engine, advanced features, and sporty styling. The AX5’s combination of performance, comfort, and technology makes it an attractive choice for performance enthusiasts who seek a well-rounded package.
- The Mahindra XUV700 AX3 secures the second position, offering similar performance credentials as the AX5 but with fewer features. The AX3’s potent engine and smooth manual transmission still provide an engaging driving experience, making it a great option for enthusiasts who prioritize performance over additional amenities.
- The Tata Safari Smart ranks third on our list, primarily due to its capable 2.0-liter diesel engine and well-designed interior. While it may not match the outright performance of the XUV700 variants, the Safari Smart’s balanced approach to performance, comfort, and practicality makes it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who require a more versatile vehicle.
The XUV700 AX5’s all-round package, the AX3’s focus on pure performance, and the Safari Smart’s balanced approach ensure that there is a suitable option for every type of performance enthusiast in this comparison.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
The post Tata Safari 2023 vs Mahindra XUV700 2024 Performance Showdown: What’s the Best Variant in Rs 15-18 Lakh Range? first appeared on Cartoq.
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