Hi, we are planning to purchase a new 6- or 7-seater, but we are confused between the XUV700 diesel manual and the new XEV 9S. Our daily commute is around 100km. Could you please recommend which car we should go ahead with? Thank you.

Autocar India

•17h

You should go for the Toyota Innova HyCross GX (O) if you want a true 7-seater with the roomiest third row of seats. The HyCross's 2,850 mm wheelbase and flat floor make the third row friendlier for adults than the Tata Safari or the Mahindra XUV 7XO. Furthermore, it's backed up by Toyota’s proven reliability and hassle-free ownership in India.However, you will have to compromise when it comes to the powertrain. The Hycross' 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine isn't as punchy as the Tata Safari and XUV 7XO's turbocharged units, and real-world mileage is quite poor, as we managed 6.9kpl in the city and 12.4kpl on the highway. The Toyota also doesn't get a diesel engine option like the other two.If you prioritise performance and high-end features, either the Safari or the Mahindra XUV 7XO makes more sense. As for pricing, the Innova HyCross GX (O) is priced between Rs 20.43 lakh and Rs 20.56 lakh (ex-showroom).

Toyota Innova HyCross

Tata Safari

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Autocar India

•19h

Between the two, the Tata Safari works slightly better as a family-oriented seven-seater. Its second row can slide forward and backwards, which helps create more legroom for passengers sitting in the third row. This flexibility makes the last row easier to use for adults on longer journeys.The Mahindra XUV 7XO, on the other hand, offers stronger performance and more features, especially in the higher variants. It is a nicer car to drive with stronger performance, but the third row is better suited to children or shorter journeys compared to the Safari.If your priority is maximum comfort for all passengers and better third-row usability, the Safari Accomplished+ diesel automatic is the better choice. If you prefer stronger performance and more tech features, the XUV 7XO AX7L diesel automatic is the one to consider.

Tata Safari

Mahindra XUV 7XO

Autocar India

•1d

If you have home charging available, the Mahindra XEV 9e Pack 2 makes a lot of sense. Electric cars are extremely smooth in city traffic, offer instant torque and have much lower running costs compared to petrol SUVs.However, if home charging is not easily available and you prefer the convenience of quick refuelling for occasional long trips, the Mahindra XUV 7XO automatic is the safer and simpler choice. It removes the need to plan charging stops and will feel more convenient for highway travel.Choose the XEV 9e if you have home charging and want lower running costs with a smoother city drive. Choose the XUV 7XO automatic if you want maximum convenience for long trips without worrying about charging.

Mahindra XEV 9e

Mahindra XUV 7XO