Despite being Tata Motors’ flagship SUVs in the passenger vehicle domain, the Harrier and Safari have struggled to outsell the segment-leading Mahindra XUV700. In October 2023, Tata Motors sold a total of 18,947 units of the Harrier and Safari combined, while the XUV700 sold an impressive 41,176 units in the same period.
The preference for the XUV700 over the Harrier and Safari can be attributed to several factors. One key factor is the absence of a petrol version for the Tata SUVs. The Harrier and Safari only offer a diesel engine option, limiting their appeal to buyers who prefer petrol variants, especially in urban areas. In contrast, the XUV700 provides both petrol and diesel engine choices, giving buyers more options.
Another factor is the features offered by each vehicle. While earlier versions of the Harrier and Safari lacked in comfort, convenience, and safety features compared to the XUV700, the updated versions now offer a plethora of features that may put them on par with the XUV700. Future sales performance will determine if these new Tata SUVs can compete in this aspect.
The XUV700 also has an advantage among SUV enthusiasts seeking rugged off-road capabilities. The updated Harrier and Safari do not offer an all-wheel drive option, while the XUV700 provides this feature in its top variant, making it more attractive to those who enjoy off-road adventures.
Price points also play a significant role in the buying decision. Post-updates, both the Harrier and Safari have seen significant price increases, while the XUV700 remains the most affordable option among the three SUVs. Despite missing a few features, the XUV700 represents a more economical choice, especially with its lower starting price and the availability of a cheaper top-spec diesel-automatic front-wheel drive variant.
Lastly, Tata Motors has faced concerns about its after-sales service and quality in the past, which may have given the XUV700 a slight advantage. While Tata’s new-gen vehicles promise enhanced quality and modern appeal, potential buyers are cautious and wait to see if these past concerns will resurface with the updated offerings.
Overall, the Harrier and Safari face tough competition from the XUV700 in multiple aspects like engine options, features, off-road capabilities, pricing, and reputation. Tata Motors will need to address these factors and continuously enhance their offerings to regain their position in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why are the Tata Harrier and Safari struggling to outsell the Mahindra XUV700?
The Tata Harrier and Safari have been struggling to outsell the Mahindra XUV700 due to factors such as the absence of a petrol version, fewer features compared to the XUV700 (before the updates), the lack of an all-wheel drive option, higher price points post-updates, and concerns about Tata Motors’ after-sales service and quality.
2. What advantages does the Mahindra XUV700 have over the Harrier and Safari?
The Mahindra XUV700 offers a petrol engine option in addition to a diesel engine, a wide range of features, an all-wheel drive option, and a lower starting price compared to the Harrier and Safari.
3. Are the Tata Harrier and Safari now on par with the XUV700 in terms of features?
The updated versions of the Tata Harrier and Safari now offer a plethora of features that may potentially surpass those available in the XUV700. However, future sales performance will determine if they can compete effectively in this aspect.
4. Why is the XUV700 more affordable than the Harrier and Safari despite offering additional features?
The Mahindra XUV700 is more affordable than the Harrier and Safari due to its lower starting price and the availability of a cheaper top-spec diesel-automatic front-wheel drive variant. Additionally, the XUV700 offers a petrol engine option, which allows for better pricing options.
5. Have Tata Motors addressed concerns about after-sales service and quality?
Tata Motors has promised enhanced quality and modern appeal in their new-gen vehicles. However, potential buyers are cautious and will wait to see if these past concerns about after-sales service and quality resurface with the updated versions of the Harrier and Safari.