Renault Boreal vs Tata Safari, MG Hector, Mahindra XUV700 and Hyundai Alcazar
Although the Renault Boreal still has some time to hit Indian streets, we take an early look at how it compares with its popular rivals in the segment, including the Tata Safari and the Mahindra XUV700.
By Sanorita
Renault has pulled the cover off its new C-segment SUV, the Boreal, which is slated to launch in India by 2026 as a 7-seater version of the next-generation Duster. We all know that the seven-seater SUV market in India is highly competitive, and the Renault Boreal will step into the ring with rivals like the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Alcazar. Each of these SUVs has carved out a strong presence and built a loyal customer base. Although the Boreal’s launch in India still has time, we take an early look at how it compares with its popular rivals in the segment.
Renault Boreal vs Tata Safari, MG Hector, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Alcazar: Dimensions
| Model | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Wheelbase (mm) |
| Tata Safari | 4,668 | 1,922 | 1,795 | 2,741 |
| MG Hector Plus | 4,699 | 1,835 | 1,760 | 2,750 |
| Mahindra XUV700 | 4,695 | 1,890 | 1,755 | 2,750 |
| Hyundai Alcazar | 4,560 | 1,800 | 1,710 | 2,760 |
| Renault Boreal | 4.556 | 1,841 | 1,650 | 2,702 |
In terms of dimensions, the Tata SUV is larger across the board, measuring 4,668mm in length, 1,922mm in width, and 1,795mm in height, with a slightly longer wheelbase of 2,741mm. The MG Hector Plus is similar in length at 4,699mm but narrower at 1,835mm and a bit taller at 1,760mm, boasting a 2,750mm wheelbase. The Mahindra XUV700 closely matches the Hector’s dimensions, measuring 4,695mm long, 1,890mm wide, and 1,755mm tall, also with a 2,750mm wheelbase. The Hyundai Alcazar, the most compact of the group, is 4560mm long, 1,800mm wide, and 1,710mm tall. However, it features the longest wheelbase at 2,760mm.
On the other hand, the upcoming Renault Boreal is slightly smaller, measuring 4,556mm long, 1,841mm wide, and 1,650mm tall, with a 2,702mm wheelbase. Overall, the Boreal’s more compact footprint and optimised wheelbase suggest a balanced approach, striving to deliver spaciousness while fitting into the mid-sized category of this competitive segment.
Renault Boreal vs Tata Safari, MG Hector, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Alcazar: Engine
The French automaker has not confirmed the engine specifications of the India-bound Boreal. However, the SUV is powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged engine, available in petrol or flex-fuel versions depending on the market. The petrol variant delivers 136bhp/154bhp and 240Nm, while the flex-fuel model generates 161bhp and 270Nm. Power is sent through a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
In contrast, the Tata Safari uses a 2.0-litre diesel engine (168bhp, 350Nm) with manual and automatic options. The MG Hector offers a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (141bhp, 250Nm) and a 2.0-litre diesel (168bhp, 350Nm). However, when it comes to outright power, the XUV700 from Mahindra leads the pack with its 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine churning out 197bhp and 380Nm, while its 2.2-litre diesel makes up to 182bhp and up to 450Nm. The Hyundai Alcazar offers 158bhp petrol and 114bhp diesel options.
Renault Boreal vs Tata Safari, MG Hector, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Alcazar: Features
Features-wise, all five SUVs come well-equipped. The Boreal features a dual 10-inch OpenR display setup (instrument cluster + infotainment), an e-shifter, 48-colour ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, USB-C ports, and electrically adjustable front seats with memory. It also offers 24 Level-2 ADAS features. In comparison, the Tata Safari offers segment-rich comfort features like ventilated front and rear seats (first two rows), a panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and ADAS on higher trims. The Hyundai Alcazar boasts ventilated second-row seats (in 6-seater trims), boss mode, and Level 2 ADAS across variants.
The XUV700 stands out with a dual 10.25-inch screen layout, seven airbags, and advanced Level-2 ADAS, while the MG Hector Plus focuses on practicality with a 14-inch touchscreen, connected car tech, and a panoramic sunroof. It also gets ADAS.
Renault Boreal vs Tata Safari, MG Hector, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Alcazar: Price
The Boreal is expected to be priced competitively in India, starting somewhere around Rs 15 lakh. For reference, the Mahindra XUV700 starts at Rs 14.49 lakh and reaches up to Rs 25.15 lakh. The Tata Safari, on the other hand, is priced between Rs 15.50 lakh and Rs 27.25 lakh. The MG Hector Plus costs between Rs 17.50 lakh and Rs 23.94 lakh. In contrast, the Hyundai Alcazar is priced between Rs 14.99 lakh and Rs 21.74 lakh. These are ex-showroom prices.
