Out of the three options, the Tata Safari is the one to go for, for its excellent ride comfort, both on the highway and in urban conditions. It feels tough, and flattens bad roads very nicely. 

Moreover, it is more comfortable in all three rows than the Mahindra Scorpio N. Tata's 2.0-litre diesel engine is punchy, although the Mahindra car has an edge in terms of refinement.

The Force Gurkha is the most rugged of the three, and the most capable off-road. But since you want a car for on-road driving, it is also the least comfortable, feels utilitarian, its diesel engine lacks performance, and there is a lot more body roll than the other two cars.

Yes, the Tata Safari petrol is a good option to consider. The 170hp petrol engine is smooth and punchy, making it a lovely car to drive. 

However, if you have the budget to opt for the Skoda Kodiaq, then, quite frankly, the Safari petrol, other than a much more spacious third row, can’t match the Kodiaq, which is in a different class altogether. 

It is better engineered, has a quality feel and is superbly equipped. Also, for your driving, which is mainly on weekends and on highways, where there is less traffic, you can really enjoy the Kodiaq, which is a perfect car. The only compromise you will have to make is with the third row, which is best for kids.
 

The Mahindra XEV 9S is a large car, but its last row isn't comfortable for adults over long drives. Hence, if you need a comfortable seven-seater for long drives, consider the Turbo petrol versions of the Kia Carens Clavis and Tata Safari instead. 

There's also the Kia Carens Clavis EV in this range, which shares its battery+motor with the Creta Electric. However, on your 350km+ highway drives, you will have to stop and charge once, as its real-world highway range is about 345km as per our tests
 

The launch of the petrol versions of the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari will happen this December for sure. 

We will also be driving both Harrier and Safari this month, and our full review will be out on our website and YouTube channel towards the 3rd week of this month, so do look out for that.   

Between the Tata Safari and the Mahindra XUV700, it’s the Mahindra car that we would recommend. It is more comfortable, has strong engines, offers a more refined driving experience and has better features.

The Safari scores well on design, feels a bit tougher over bad sections and has the more spacious third row, but all things considered, the Mahindra XUV700 is better. It might be worth waiting for a few months, however, as the XUV700 facelift is just around the corner.