The premium SUV segment in India has witnessed an intense battle between two homegrown giants – the Tata Harrier and Mahindra XUV700. Both vehicles represent the pinnacle of Indian automotive engineering, offering world-class features, impressive performance, and premium experiences at competitive price points. As we move through 2024, both SUVs have received updates that make the choice between them more challenging than ever.
The Tata Harrier brings Land Rover-derived architecture and sophisticated design to the table, while the Mahindra XUV700 counters with cutting-edge technology and segment-first features. Both SUVs have their unique strengths and cater to slightly different buyer preferences, making the decision a matter of prioritizing what matters most to you.
This comprehensive comparison delves deep into every aspect of these premium SUVs – from their design philosophies and feature sets to real-world performance, ownership costs, and long-term value. Whether you’re a family buyer seeking comfort, a tech enthusiast wanting the latest features, or a driving purist seeking performance, this guide will help you determine which SUV deserves your investment.
Price and Variant Analysis
Ex-Showroom Price Comparison
Tata Harrier:
XE:₹ 15.49 Lakhs
XT:₹ 17.49 Lakhs
XZ:₹ 19.49 Lakhs
XZ+:₹ 20.49 Lakhs
XZ+ Dark:₹ 21.49 Lakhs
XZ+ OEM (ADAS):₹ 22.49 Lakhs
Mahindra XUV700:
MX:₹ 14.03 Lakhs
AX3:₹ 16.23 Lakhs
AX5:₹ 17.83 Lakhs
AX7:₹ 20.23 Lakhs
AX7 L:₹ 22.43 Lakhs
AX7 L AWD:₹ 24.03 Lakhs
Value Proposition Analysis
Harrier Advantages:
More premium base variant
Better standard features in mid-variants
Consistent safety across all trims
Land Rover-derived platform prestige
XUV700 Advantages:
Lower starting price
More variant options
Broader powertrain choices
More aggressive pricing in top variants
Exterior Design and Styling
Tata Harrier: Sophisticated and Premium
Design Language:Â Impact 2.0 philosophy Front Design:
Signature LED DRLs
Humanity line grille
Sleek headlamp design
Premium chrome elements
Side Profile:
Coupe-like silhouette
18-inch diamond-cut alloys
Floating roof effect
Muscular wheel arches
Rear Design:
Connected LED tail lights
Bold ‘Harrier’ badging
Wide and planted stance
Premium finish elements
Mahindra XUV700: Bold and Technological
Design Language:Â New age SUV styling Front Design:
Signature LED lighting
Chrome-studded grille
C-shaped LED DRLs
Aggressive bumper design
Side Profile:
Strong character lines
18-inch alloy wheels
Flush door handles
Contrast roof options
Rear Design:
Sleek LED tail lights
‘XUV700’ badging
Roof-mounted spoiler
Sporty bumper design
Design Verdict
Harrier offers sophisticated, premium appeal while XUV700 presents bold, tech-forward styling. Choice depends on personal preference for elegance versus modernity.
XUV700:Stable and composed, good high-speed manners
Advantage:Both excellent, Harrier slightly better
Handling Characteristics
Steering Feel:
Harrier:Light in city, weights up well on highway
XUV700:Direct and responsive, sportier feel
Preference:Harrier for comfort, XUV700 for sportiness
Braking Performance:
Both:Strong and progressive braking
Both:Good pedal feel and feedback
Verdict:Equally competent
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard Safety Equipment
Tata Harrier:
6 airbags standard across variants
ESP with traction control
Hill hold assist and descent control
ISOFIX child seat mounts
ADAS:Available in top variant
Mahindra XUV700:
6 airbags (standard in AX7 and above)
ESP with roll-over mitigation
Hill hold and descent control
ADAS:Standard in AX7 and above
Safety Ratings
Expected Ratings:
Harrier:Expected 5-star (Global NCAP)
XUV700:5-star (Global NCAP tested)
Both:Excellent safety credentials
Advanced Safety
ADAS Comparison:
Harrier:Level 2 ADAS (top variant only)
XUV700:Level 1 ADAS (standard in higher variants)
Features:Both offer adaptive cruise, lane keep assist
Advantage:XUV700 for wider availability
Ownership Costs Analysis
Maintenance Costs
Tata Harrier:
Service Interval:1 year/15,000 km
Annual Cost:₹ 15,000-20,000
Extended Warranty:3+2 years available
Spare Parts:Reasonably priced
Mahindra XUV700:
Service Interval:1 year/15,000 km
Annual Cost:₹ 12,000-18,000
Extended Warranty:3+2 years available
Spare Parts:Slightly more affordable
Fuel Costs
Diesel Running Cost:
Harrier:₹ 6-7/km
XUV700:₹ 6-7/km
Difference:Marginal
Petrol Running Cost (XUV700 only):
XUV700 Petrol:₹ 8-9/km
Insurance Costs
Comprehensive Insurance:
Harrier:₹ 45,000-60,000 annually
XUV700:₹ 40,000-55,000 annually
Difference:XUV700 slightly cheaper to insure
Resale Value
3-Year Retention:
Harrier:55-60%
XUV700:60-65%
Advantage:XUV700 for better resale
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose Tata Harrier If:
You prioritize premium design and sophistication
Ride comfort is your top priority
You prefer diesel powertrain
5-seater configuration is sufficient
You value Land Rover-derived architecture
Choose Mahindra XUV700 If:
You want latest technology and features
Petrol powertrain is important
You need 7-seater capability
Performance and acceleration matter
Better resale value is a consideration
Best Value Variants
Tata Harrier: XZ variant (₹ 19.49 Lakhs)
Panoramic sunroof
25-inch touchscreen
Premium audio system
Excellent feature balance
Mahindra XUV700: AX7 variant (₹ 20.23 Lakhs)
ADAS safety features
Dual 10.25-inch screens
6 airbags standard
Comprehensive feature set
Pros and Cons Summary
Tata Harrier Advantages:
Premium and sophisticated design
Excellent ride quality
Land Rover-derived platform
Consistent safety across variants
Strong diesel performance
Tata Harrier Disadvantages:
No petrol engine option
Limited variant choices
Fewer tech features than XUV700
No 7-seater option
Mahindra XUV700 Advantages:
Cutting-edge technology
Multiple powertrain options
7-seater capability
Better performance
Superior resale value
Mahindra XUV700 Disadvantages:
Higher waiting periods
Firm low-speed ride
More expensive top variants
Quality inconsistencies in some units
Long-Term Ownership Experience
Reliability
Tata Harrier:
Proven diesel engine reliability
Good build quality
Concerns:Electronic issues in some units
Mahindra XUV700:
Newer platform, proven engines
Good overall reliability
Concerns:Early production quality issues
Service Network
Tata Motors:
Coverage:700+ service centers
Quality:Improving consistently
Cost:Reasonable for segment
Mahindra:
Coverage:1000+ service centers
Quality:Generally good
Cost:Slightly more affordable
Common Issues
Tata Harrier:
Infotainment system glitches
Sunroof rattles (some units)
AC performance in extreme heat
Mahindra XUV700:
Software updates required
Fit and finish inconsistencies
Electronic niggles in early units
Verdict and Recommendations
Both the Tata Harrier and Mahindra XUV700 represent exceptional value in the premium SUV segment, each with distinct strengths that cater to different buyer preferences.
Final Scores:
Tata Harrier:5/10
Mahindra XUV700:9/10
Specific Recommendations:
For Luxury and Comfort:
Choice:Tata Harrier
Reason:Superior ride quality, premium interiors
Best Variant:XZ+
For Technology and Features:
Choice:Mahindra XUV700
Reason:Advanced tech, better infotainment
Best Variant:AX7
For Family Use:
Choice:Mahindra XUV700
Reason:7-seater option, comprehensive safety
Best Variant:AX7 L
For Highway Driving:
Choice:Tata Harrier
Reason:Excellent stability, comfortable ride
Best Variant:XZ+ OEM (with ADAS)
For Value Consciousness:
Choice:Mahindra XUV700
Reason:More features for money, better resale
Best Variant:AX5
Conclusion
The Tata Harrier and Mahindra XUV700 battle represents the best of Indian automotive engineering, with both vehicles offering compelling packages that challenge established international brands.
The Tata Harrier excels as a sophisticated, comfort-oriented SUV that prioritizes ride quality and premium appeal. Its Land Rover-derived architecture gives it a solid foundation, while the recent updates have addressed many initial concerns.
The Mahindra XUV700 stands out as a technology powerhouse that doesn’t compromise on performance or practicality. Its extensive feature list, multiple powertrain options, and 7-seater capability make it incredibly versatile.
Final Verdict:Â While both are excellent choices, the Mahindra XUV700 edges ahead due to its broader appeal, more comprehensive feature set, and better value proposition. However, if your priorities align specifically with the Harrier’s strengths in comfort and premium appeal, it remains an outstanding choice.
Test drive both vehicles extensively, consider your specific needs and priorities, and choose the SUV that best aligns with your lifestyle and requirements. Both represent smart choices in the premium SUV segment.
FAQs
Which is more comfortable – Harrier or XUV700?
The Tata Harrier has a slight edge in ride comfort, especially over bad roads and in city driving conditions. The XUV700 offers good comfort but has a slightly firmer setup.
Which has better technology features?
The Mahindra XUV700 has more advanced technology features, including the dual-screen setup, more comprehensive ADAS, and better connected car technology.
Is Harrier’s diesel engine better than XUV700’s?
Both diesel engines are excellent. The Harrier’s 2.0L engine is refined and powerful, while the XUV700’s 2.2L engine offers more power and torque. The XUV700 has the advantage of offering a petrol option too.
Which has better resale value?
The Mahindra XUV700 typically has better resale value, retaining 60-65% after 3 years compared to the Harrier’s 55-60%.
Should I choose 5-seater Harrier or 7-seater XUV700?
Choose based on your seating needs. If you regularly need to carry more than 5 people, the XUV700 is better. If 5 seats are sufficient, the Harrier offers more comfort and boot space.
Which is better for highway driving?
Both are excellent for highway driving. The Harrier offers slightly better ride comfort, while the XUV700 has better performance and more comprehensive ADAS features.
How do maintenance costs compare?
The XUV700 has slightly lower maintenance costs, but both are reasonably affordable to maintain for vehicles in this segment. Annual maintenance for both ranges between ₹ 12,000-20,000.
Tags:Â Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV700, premium SUV comparison, Harrier vs XUV700, best premium SUV, SUV buying guide, ADAS features, ownership cost, performance comparison
