Tata Safari vs Mahindra Scorpio-N Spec Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

The Mahindra Scorpio and the Tata Safari are one of the most popular names in the Indian automotive industry. The two SUVs have been engaging in intense competition for decades, consistently outperforming one another. The former is a rear-wheel drive body-on-frame vehicle, whereas the latter has front-wheel drive and operates on a monocoque architecture. In their latest iterations, both the Mahindra and the Tata models have significantly evolved when it comes to their design and feature set. They are now even more in demand, packed with amenities, and boast a sophisticated appearance. Which of these three-row SUVs is the better choice? Let's find out by comparing them on various important parameters.

Tata Safari vs Mahindra Scorpio-N Spec Comparison: Price Tags 

The higher spec Z8L 4WD model of the Scorpio-N carries a price tag of Rs 24.54 lakh, while the standard diesel model costs Rs 13.99 lakh. The cost of the premium 6-seater variant is Rs 22.47 lakh. However, the top-spec Accomplished+ Automatic Dark model of the Safari falls between Rs 16.19 lakh and Rs 27.34 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom.

Tata Safari vs Mahindra Scorpio-N Spec Comparison: Powertrain 

Mahindra provides the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and the 2.2-litre diesel engines as the Scorpio-N's two available powertrain options. The diesel engine produces 130bhp and 300Nm of torque. However, in higher-spec setups, it can generate up to 173bhp and 300–400Nm. In the meantime, the 2-litre turbo-petrol engine generates 370/380Nm of torque and 197bhp. Although a 6-speed manual transmission is the standard gearbox, some of the more potent diesel and turbo-petrol versions also have a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

Coming to the engine specs of the Safari, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel unit is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. It has a maximum power output of 168bhp and a peak torque of 350Nm. Furthermore, traction and driving modes are also present. 

Tata Safari vs Mahindra Scorpio-N Spec Comparison: Features

On the feature front, the Mahindra Scorpio has wireless charging, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a 12-speaker 3D Sony sound system, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, front and rear cameras, a 6-way power-adjustable driver seat, auto start-stop, cruise control, an electric sunroof, type-C USB ports for the first and second rows, and keyless entry. Another alternative that works with Alexa is What3Word, which allows you to set your location with only three words. While the top-of-the-line Z8 L model includes an optional 6-seat arrangement with captain seats in the second row, all other models have a 7-seat configuration.

The interior comforts of the new Safari include a 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen, depending on the model. Other notable features comprise a panoramic sunroof, a touch-based panel for HVAC controls, ventilated first and second-row seats, a new drive selector for automatic models, a 360-degree camera, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10-speaker JBL-tuned sound system, rear window shades, and so on.

Tata Safari vs Mahindra Scorpio-N Spec Comparison: Safety Suite

Level 2 ADAS features are a crucial element that is exclusive to Safari. The Scorpio-N only has front and back parking cameras, whereas the Safari has a 360-degree camera. The former boasts ventilated disc brakes and both models include TPMS, ESC, hill hold, and hill descent control. On the other hand, the Safari receives upgraded ESP along with a driver doze-off alert. It also has the highest safety ratings, whether it is from Global NCAP or even Bharat NCAP. The Scorpio isn't exactly that far behind in this aspect. The driver's knee airbag, a welcome addition to this vehicle, is the only additional airbag that comes with the Safari. Moreover, unlike the Scorpio-N, the SUV has six airbags as standard equipment.

Tata Safari vs Mahindra Scorpio-N Spec Comparison: Appearance

The Safari's design is considerably different than before. The use of body-colour grille inserts guarantees a premium appearance, and the connecting headlights and tail lamps look rather good. The top-tier Accomplished trim of the Safari gains appeal from sequential turn indicators and welcome and goodbye graphics. Regarding the profile, the Scorpio-N seems more powerful than the Safari, but the latter has a more refined design from the back. The Scorpio-N also comes with silver-finished skid plates. 

Tata Safari vs Mahindra Scorpio-N Spec Comparison: Dimensions

In terms of dimensions, the Scorpio-N and Safari are roughly equal in size, with the Scorpio-N being taller and having a longer wheelbase. Meanwhile, the Tata SUV is marginally wider and longer than the Scorpio-N. The Mahindra model has 17-inch wheels on all trim levels except for the flagship Z8L, which has 18-inch wheels. The Safari, on the contrary, has 17- to 19-inch wheels across the range.