After debuting in the Sierra, Tata’s 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo-petrol engine has also made its way to the bigger Safari with a slight bump in power and torque. While prices are awaited, Tata has revealed most of its specifications. So, how does the new petrol-powered Safari compare against its rivals, such as the Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus and Mahindra XUV700, all of which also come with a petrol powertrain? Let us find out.
Do note that the XUV700, due for an update, will be called the XUV 7XO when the facelifted model launches on January 5, 2026.
Tata Safari petrol vs rivals: Dimensions
Safari is the widest and tallest 3-row SUV in its segment
At 4,668mm, the Tata Safari is longer than the Alcazar by 108mm but shorter than the Hector Plus and XUV700 by 31mm and 27mm, respectively. It is the widest and tallest offering in the segment but has the shortest wheelbase in this comparison. However, there isn’t a stark difference in wheelbase among all SUVs.
The Safari petrol also offers up to 19-inch wheels, the biggest in this segment, while its rivals have up to 18-inchers.
Tata Safari petrol vs rivals: Specs and gearbox options
Except for the outgoing XUV700, all other SUVs get a 1.5-litre engine
With a 2.0-litre unit, the XUV700 gets the biggest petrol engine in this comparison; others get 1.5-litre units. Hence, the Mahindra also offers a lot more power and torque than its rivals. If we compare the 1.5-litre engine SUVs, the Safari produces 10hp more than the Alcazar and 27hp more than the Hector Plus. A similar difference is visible in their torque outputs, with the Safari churning out 27Nm and 30Nm more than the Hyundai and the MG.
These 3-row SUVs offer both manual and automatic transmission options, with all units sending power to the front wheels. While every model in this comparison offers a similar 6-speed manual transmission, the automatic options vary.
Tata Safari petrol vs rivals: Prices
Safari’s turbo-petrol prices will be revealed in the first week of January 2026
Tata will be revealing the prices of the petrol-powered Safari in the first week of January 2026. As for its rivals, the XUV700 offers the most affordable base variant, while the Hector Plus is the most expensive option in this regard. However, the Hector Plus’s top-end trim is the most affordable one, followed by the Alcazar and XUV700. Notably, with the facelift, prices of the Mahindra offering are also expected to increase slightly.
All prices are ex-showroom, India.