Mahindra Scorpio N vs Tata Safari: Top-spec Variants Compared

While the Scorpio N gets ADAS only with its top-spec Z8L variant, some mid and higher spec variants of the Safari come with the driver assistance suite

The Mahindra Scorpio N was updated recently with an updated Level-2 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) suite, which hiked its prices by up to Rs 48,000. This 3-row Mahindra SUV locks horns with the Tata Safari, which also comes with three rows of seating. So, how does the updated Scorpio N compare against the Tata Safari? Let us find out.

Prices

All prices are ex-showroom, pan-India 

As seen in the table, the Mahindra Scorpio has a more affordable fully-loaded variant, which costs Rs 2 lakh less than the top-end variant of the Safari. However, the Safari gets a lot of features over the Scorpio N for the price premium.

Dimensions

 While the length, width and wheelbase of both rival SUVs are more or less similar, the Scorpio N is taller, meaning that it can accommodate taller passengers with relative ease compared to the Tata Safari.

Powertrain Options

*AT = Torque converter automatic transmission

^RWD = Rear-wheel-drive; 4WD = Four-wheel-drive; FWD = Front-wheel-drive 

Comparing the diesel variants of both rivals, the Scorpio N produces slightly more power and torque from its larger capacity engine. It has an added edge in the torque output, which is up to 50 Nm with the automatic transmission. Moreover, the diesel engine of the Scorpio N can be had with a 4WD setup, something that is missing entirely in the Tata rival.

The Scorpio N also gets a turbo-petrol engine option, which is not on offer with the Safari. However, Tata Motors will be introducing a turbo-petrol engine soon to strengthen its competition with the Mahindra offering.

Features 

•  Both SUVs come with commonalities including projector LED headlights, front LED fog lamps and LED tail lights outside and interior amenities like leatherette-wrapped steering wheels and seats and a choice between 6 and 7 seats. Common features include dual-zone auto AC with rear vents, ventilated front seats, powered driver’s seat, front and rear parking sensors and a Level-2 ADAS.

• The Scorpio N features a 12-speaker Sony sound system that is not offered with the Tata Safari.

• The Safari, on the other hand, features rear fog lamps, larger alloy wheels, a bigger driver’s display and touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated 2nd row seats, electric boss mode, powered co-driver-seat, all of which are not offered with the Harrier. It also gets a knee airbag for the driver, a 360-degree camera and disc brakes on all wheels, all of which do not make it to the Scorpio N’s feature list. 

Verdict

The Tata Safari comes with a lot of features inside, including some likeable comfort and convenience features, including a powered driver's seat, ventilated 2nd row seats (in 6 seater variants) and also a superior safety suite. It also gets a fairly modern design with all-LED lights and bigger alloy wheels. So, if you want a stylish SUV that is lashed with modern-day features, you can consider the Tata Safari. 

On the other hand, the Mahindra Scorpio N comes with multiple engine options and a choice between RWD and AWD setups, which will cater to varied driving needs. While it might not get all the high-tech amenities of the Safari, it gets the basics sorted. So, if you want an all-rounder SUV, something that is more capable off the roads, you can choose the Mahindra Scorpio N. 

What will you choose? Tell us in the comments below.

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