Renault Duster vs Mahindra XUV500

The SUV-crazy Indian automobile market has recently seen quite a few new entrants. And one of the most commonly-debated topics seems to be whether the Renault Duster or the Mahindra XUV500 makes for a better buy. Of course, there seem to be quite a few similarities between the cars. They are priced almost alike, even identical (at Rs 11.69 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi) as in the case of the base front-wheel-drive XUV500 W6 and the top-spec Duster 110 RxZ (with Option Pack). Both the SUVs use monocoque construction and even have similar power-to-weight ratio. But that’s it with the similarities. While the Duster is clearly smaller and is easier to manoeuvre in the city, the larger XUV has the advantage of seven seating.

To help you make the correct choice, we took both these beasts through the rigours of heavy Mumbai traffic, the concrete expanses of the Mumbai-Pune expressway and even the scenic Maharashtra countryside. Which one comes out on top? Read on to find out.