Both these SUVs are ‘soft roaders’ – built like a car (as against a light truck with a ladder frame), and neither is a serious off-roader. So does it make sense to equip them with all-wheel-drive systems? While these cars will never be up to extreme 4x4 rock climbing or dune bashing, 4WD will aid traction for sure. And this will make them more driveable and capable on mountain trails, slushy country roads and on wet slippery surfaces. If this appeals to you, then these cars are just right for you.

As is evident, the key difference between the two cars you see on these pages is size. The Mahindra XUV is a size bigger than the Renault Duster in every aspect — be it dimensions, cabin space, number of seats or engine size.

Where the Mahindra XUV always came with an option of four-wheel drive, the Duster lacked this hardware. But now, Renault has launched the Duster AWD, so it’s time for a rematch with the Mahindra.

Even though these cars have all four wheels driven, they aren’t in the same league as say a Fortuner or even the Safari Storme when it comes to off-road driving. So, which of these rugged beasts, with their tall stance, friendly car-like driving manners and capability to handle difficult Indian road conditions is the best for you? We have compared them on both smooth roads and overly slushy terrain.