Tata Harrier Vs XUV700: Which Is Better
The Indian SUV market has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, with buyers increasingly preferring spacious, feature-rich vehicles that offer both comfort and performance. Among the most popular choices in the premium SUV segment are the Tata Harrier vs Mahindra XUV700, two vehicles that have captured the attention of discerning Indian buyers. Both SUVs represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers’ engineering capabilities, offering compelling packages that blend style, technology, and practicality. Choosing between the Tata Harrier and Mahindra XUV700 can be challenging, as both vehicles excel in different areas and cater to varying buyer preferences. This comprehensive comparison will help you understand the key differences, similarities, and unique selling points of each SUV, enabling you to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget. Design and Aesthetics: A Tale of Two Philosophies Tata Harrier: Bold and Imposing Presence The Tata Harrier commands attention with its distinctive design language inspired by the Land Rover Discovery Sport. The SUV features a bold, muscular stance with clean lines and sophisticated proportions that give it a premium appearance. The signature split-headlamp design, featuring LED DRLs positioned high and main headlamps integrated into the bumper, creates a unique visual identity that sets it apart from conventional SUVs. The Harrier’s side profile showcases flowing lines with prominent wheel arches and a rising beltline that adds to its dynamic appearance. The rear design is equally impressive, with wraparound LED taillights and a clean, uncluttered tailgate that reinforces its premium positioning. The overall design philosophy emphasises elegance and sophistication, making it appealing to buyers who prioritise style and premium aesthetics. XUV700: Aggressive and Feature-Rich Design The Mahindra XUV700 takes a more aggressive approach to design, featuring bold styling elements that emphasise its rugged SUV character. The front fascia is dominated by a large grille with chrome accents and sleek LED headlamps that create a distinctive visual signature. The SUV’s design language is more conventional compared to the Harrier but incorporates modern elements that give it a contemporary appearance. The XUV700’s side profile is characterised by muscular lines and prominent cladding that emphasises its SUV credentials. The rear design features connected LED taillights and a robust bumper design that reinforces its bold character. While the XUV700 may not have the same premium appeal as the Harrier, it successfully conveys strength and capability through its design elements. Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Everyone Tata Harrier: Premium Cabin Experience The Tata Harrier offers a spacious and well-appointed interior that rivals many luxury SUVs. The cabin features premium materials, including soft-touch plastics and leather upholstery, creating an upmarket ambiance. The dashboard design is clean and modern, with a focus on user-friendly controls and intuitive layout. Seating comfort is excellent in the Harrier, with well-contoured seats that provide adequate support for long journeys. The front seats offer good adjustability, while the rear seats provide generous legroom and headroom for adult passengers. However, the Harrier is primarily a five-seater SUV, which may limit its appeal for large families requiring seven-seat configuration. Mahindra XUV700: Versatile Seven-Seater Configuration The XUV700’s interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering both six and seven-seater configurations to cater to different family sizes. The cabin features modern design elements with a focus on functionality and comfort. The materials used are of good quality, though they may not match the premium feel of the Harrier’s interior. The XUV700 excels in space utilisation, with generous seating space across all three rows. The second-row seats offer excellent comfort with good support, while the third row, though suitable for children and smaller adults, provides adequate space for occasional use. The flexible seating configuration makes the XUV700 an excellent choice for large families or those who frequently travel with multiple passengers. Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics Tata Harrier: Refined Driving Experience The Tata Harrier is powered by a 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel engine that produces 170 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque. This engine, derived from Fiat’s MultiJet family, offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The power delivery is smooth and linear, making it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising. The Harrier’s driving dynamics are tuned for comfort, with a suspension setup that absorbs road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure during cornering. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to manoeuvre in city traffic. The overall driving experience is refined and comfortable, appealing to buyers who prioritise smoothness over outright performance. Mahindra XUV700: Powerful Performance Options The XUV700 offers both petrol and diesel engine options, providing buyers with more choices based on their preferences and usage patterns. The diesel variant features a 2.2-litre mHawk engine producing 185 PS of power and 420 Nm of torque, while the petrol version uses a 2.0-litre mStallion engine generating 200 PS of power and 380 Nm of torque. The XUV700’s performance is more aggressive compared to the Harrier, with quicker acceleration and higher top speeds. The diesel engine provides strong low-end torque, making it excellent for highway driving and overtaking manoeuvres. The petrol engine offers spirited performance with a more rev-happy character. The XUV700’s suspension setup is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a more engaging driving experience. Technology and Features: Modern Conveniences Tata Harrier: Focus on Essential Features The Tata Harrier comes equipped with a comprehensive set of features that cater to modern buyers’ expectations. The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. The SUV also features a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and multiple charging options for electronic devices. Safety features in the Harrier include multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill-hold control. The SUV also offers advanced features like a 360-degree camera system, parking sensors, and cruise control. While the feature list is comprehensive, the Harrier focuses on providing essential features rather than overwhelming buyers with excessive technology. XUV700: Technology-Rich Experience The XUV700 takes a more aggressive approach to technology integration, offering an