Jeep Compass vs Tata Hexa vs Mahindra XUV 500 vs Hyundai Tucson: Specs comparison

NEW DELHI: The launch of Jeep Compass at a starting price of Rs 14.95 lakhs (ex showroom) seems to have sent ripples in the burgeoning SUV segment in the country. The five-seater from the Americans - known previously for their premium offerings - takes on a number of rivals cutting across sub-segments.

Following is a specs-based comparison between the top-end and costliest diesel and petrol variants of Compass, Hexa from Tata, Mahindra's XUV 500 and the Tucson from Hyundai, respectively.

Diesel:


Petrol - (XUV 500 and Hexa not offered in this variant):



Each of these cars boast of several features in each of their variants. At an entry level - and for comparison alone - the Compass may miss out on what its rivals have on offer but as one climbs up the variants, it adds much to make a solid case for itself. In fact, its range-topping diesel variant betters the base variant of Tucson diesel primarily because of being a 4x4. Then there's telescoping steering, CD player, automatic climate control, air quality control and engine start/stop which is missing in the base Tucson diesel. Where the Koreans fightback is in offering cruise control, voice control and an (overall) better ground clearance.

Compass is priced competitively but Hexa remains the cost-effective vehicle in this comparison. The 4x4 option has an array of features including rear AC vents, glove box cooling, leather seats and rain sensing wipers. It can also seat one additional person. The one factor which may hold back Hexa is the image perception of Tata against Jeep.

The XUV 500 is the only seven-seater in this comparison and has its own strengths. Like the Hexa, its top end too is priced significantly lesser than Compass' top end but like Hexa, it would only interest those interested in diesel options. Some of its highlights vis-a-vis Compass are leather seats, automatic transmission, the biggest boot space (of cars in this comparison) and tyre pressure monitor. The Compass top-end though comes with Xenon headlights.

Rs. 12.49 lakh to Rs. 18.67 lakhs (Ex-Delhi)

About Rs. 65,000 cash discount + Rs. 15,000 exchange bonus + Rs. 10,000 corporate discount.

Verdict:

While this comparison is completely on paper and is based on specs and rough analysis of features on offer, each car has its own strengths.

What works for Compass is the sheer number of options - in petrol and diesel - that is on offer across a wide price bracket. The car has strong road presence, fresh appearance, and is also a capable 4x4 in its diesel avatar. If Jeep manages to strengthen its post sales and service network, can mount a massive challenge to the more established players. Therein also lies its major question mark.

What works for the Tucson is a long list of features. The fluidic design philosophy is instantly recognised and still much liked by Indian car buyers while Hyundai's post-sales and service network remains robust as ever. However, its price point is under direct - and massive - attack from existing and new rivals.

What works for the Hexa is - again - a long list of features and that it is easily the most affordable. 4x4 drive mode in well under Rs 17 lakh price band continues to make wallets jingle and while it is several steps forward for Tata Motors, the company remains shrouded in its image from yesteryears.

What works for XUV 500 is its sheer road presence and ability to move a large family in relative comfort. It too has a long list of features but what hampers its case is that it is now looking quite jaded despite some facelifts here and there. Like the Hexa, this car is a no-go for those looking for petrol options.