Tata Safari: The name “Safari” carries significant weight in the Indian automotive landscape. For over two decades, it represented rugged capability, commanding road presence, and a certain intangible character that endeared it to enthusiasts and family buyers alike.
When Tata Motors revived this storied nameplate for its flagship three-row SUV, it wasn’t merely a marketing exercise but a statement of intent – a declaration that the company was ready to reclaim its heritage while pushing forward into a new era of Indian automotive design and engineering.
Tata Safari: Legacy and Rebirth
The original Safari, introduced in 1998, holds a special place in India’s automotive history as one of the first homegrown SUVs. Its body-on-frame construction, distinctive design, and go-anywhere attitude earned it a devoted following despite various quirks and limitations.
Through multiple iterations including the DiCOR and Storme variants, the Safari maintained its core identity as a rugged, capable vehicle that prioritized substance over style.
The decision to discontinue the original Safari platform in 2019 marked the end of an era, but Tata’s announcement that the name would live on created immediate intrigue. Rather than developing another body-on-frame SUV, however, the company chose to apply the Safari badge to an extended version of its successful Harrier.
This strategic pivot reflected changing market preferences, with modern buyers increasingly valuing refinement, features, and efficiency alongside traditional SUV attributes like space and presence.
This transition wasn’t without controversy. Purists questioned whether a monocoque SUV derived from a passenger car platform could truly inherit the Safari mantle.
Yet Tata’s approach acknowledged an undeniable market reality – the vast majority of SUV buyers rarely venture off-road, instead prioritizing on-road comfort, modern amenities, and versatility for family use.
Design Philosophy: Commanding Attention
The current Safari embraces Tata’s Impact 2.0 design language with authority. The front fascia presents an imposing yet sophisticated appearance with its split headlamp arrangement – slim LED daytime running lights positioned above the main headlamp clusters.
The piano black grille with tri-arrow pattern elements gives the vehicle a distinctive face, while the raised hood line enhances the commanding road presence.
From the side, the Safari’s Harrier lineage is evident, but subtle differences distinguish the larger SUV. The stepped roof with functional roof rails (a nod to the original Safari) creates a distinct silhouette, while the longer rear overhang accommodates the third row of seating.
The 18-inch alloy wheels with their machine-cut finish fill the arches nicely, contributing to a planted stance despite the vehicle’s considerable height.
The rear design effectively balances visual mass with distinctive elements. The wraparound taillights feature an arresting LED signature, while the blacked-out D-pillar creates a floating roof effect that reduces visual bulk. The twin exhaust outlets and silver skid plate suggest capability while maintaining a premium appearance.
Tata offers the Safari in both traditional monotone paint schemes and striking dual-tone options, the latter pairing the body color with a contrasting black roof that emphasizes the stepped roof design.
Color choices range from conservative whites and silvers to more expressive blues and a distinctive “Safari Gold” that pays homage to the iconic “Maisie Gold” of the original.
What’s particularly impressive about the Safari’s design is how it manages to honor its predecessor’s spirit without resorting to retro pastiche.
This is a thoroughly modern interpretation that carries forward certain design cues while establishing its own distinct identity.
Interior: Space with Sophistication
Step inside the Safari, and the interior immediately impresses with its sense of space and thoughtful design. The dashboard layout, shared with the Harrier but with unique finishes, presents a layered design with a floating 8.8-inch touchscreen positioned prominently at the center.
The use of soft-touch materials on frequently contacted surfaces, piano black and chrome accents, and ambient lighting creates an upscale environment that belies the vehicle’s relatively accessible price point.
The white perforated leatherette upholstery option, exclusive to higher Safari trims, brightens the cabin considerably and contributes to the perception of space.
This light interior scheme contrasts effectively with the darker dashboard and door panels, creating visual interest without appearing disjointed.
Front seat comfort is excellent, with good thigh support, side bolstering, and multiple adjustment options including lumbar support.
The commanding seating position provides excellent visibility in all directions despite the vehicle’s substantial dimensions.
The second row represents perhaps the Safari’s greatest strength, particularly in the six-seater configuration with captain’s chairs.
These seats offer exceptional comfort with individual armrests, recline functionality, and abundant legroom. The bench seat option in the seven-seater variant sacrifices little in terms of comfort while maximizing passenger capacity.
The third row, often an afterthought in many vehicles, receives thoughtful treatment in the Safari. While not spacious enough for full-sized adults on extended journeys, it provides reasonable accommodation for teenagers or smaller adults on shorter trips.
The dedicated AC vents, USB charging ports, and adjustable headrests make this space more usable than in many competitors.
Practical considerations abound throughout the cabin – from the numerous storage compartments and cup holders to the umbrella holders in the front doors (an unexpected touch borrowed from more premium brands).
When not needed for passengers, the third row folds flat to create a substantial cargo area, while the second row also folds to accommodate longer items when required.
Technology: Modern Expectations Met
The Safari comes well-equipped with contemporary technology features expected in its segment. The 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, providing seamless smartphone integration.
The user interface, while not the most intuitive in its class, offers reasonably quick responses and clear graphics.
The 9-speaker JBL audio system delivers impressive sound quality with good clarity and balanced output that fills the cabin effectively.
The 7-inch digital display in the instrument cluster provides essential driving information and can be configured to show navigation directions, a particularly useful feature given the vehicle’s size.
Tata’s iRA connected car technology offers remote vehicle monitoring, geofencing, location sharing, and emergency assistance features accessible via smartphone app.
The system has seen continuous improvement through over-the-air updates since its introduction, addressing initial stability issues and adding functionality.
Other technology highlights include a panoramic sunroof that extends over the first and second rows, creating an airy ambiance; a terrain response system with multiple drive modes; a gesture-controlled powered tailgate; and a wireless smartphone charging pad positioned conveniently in the center console.
The Safari does show its age in certain technology aspects – the absence of wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, the relatively small touchscreen by current standards, and the limited functionality of the driver display compared to newer offerings from competitors.
However, Tata has demonstrated a commitment to keeping the vehicle current through periodic updates and special editions that introduce new features.
Performance: Capability Meets Refinement
Under the hood, the Safari features a 2.0-liter Kryotec turbocharged diesel engine producing 170 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque.
This Fiat-derived powerplant, also used in the Harrier, delivers strong mid-range performance with minimal turbo lag, making it well-suited to the Safari’s size and weight.
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic sourced from Hyundai.
The manual offers precise shifts with a reasonably light clutch action considering the engine’s torque output. The automatic, while not as quick-shifting as some dual-clutch alternatives, provides smooth operation and intelligent mapping that minimizes hunting between gears.
The Safari’s performance character emphasizes effortless progress rather than outright acceleration. The abundant torque means the vehicle rarely feels strained, even when fully loaded with passengers.
Highway cruising is particularly pleasant, with the engine turning at relatively low revs in top gear, contributing to a relaxed driving experience.
Driving dynamics are impressive considering the Safari’s dimensions. The steering offers good weight and reasonable feedback, making the vehicle feel more manageable than its size might suggest.
Body roll during cornering is present but well-controlled, never feeling disconcerting even during more enthusiastic driving.
The ESP terrain response modes (Normal, Rough, and Wet) adjust throttle response and stability control parameters to enhance traction in various conditions.
While the Safari lacks four-wheel drive – a notable departure from its predecessor – these electronic aids combined with the 205mm ground clearance provide reasonable capability on moderately challenging surfaces.
This approach reflects Tata’s understanding of how modern SUVs are actually used, prioritizing on-road refinement while maintaining light off-road capability.
Ride quality deserves special mention, with the Safari’s suspension delivering impressive compliance over poor surfaces without feeling floaty or uncontrolled.
The OMEGA (Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced) architecture, derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform, provides excellent structural rigidity that contributes to the vehicle’s solid feel and refined ride.
Braking performance comes from disc setups at all four corners, delivering consistent stopping power with good pedal feel. The electronic stability program intervenes smoothly when needed without feeling intrusive during normal driving.
Safety: A Core Priority
Tata Motors has made safety a cornerstone of its brand identity, and the Safari exemplifies this commitment. The strong structure utilizes high-strength steel in critical areas, providing excellent protection in various impact scenarios.
Active safety features include electronic stability program, hill hold control, hill descent control, rollover mitigation, and corner stability control.
Six airbags (front, side, and curtain), ISOFIX child seat anchors, and three-point seatbelts for all positions round out the passive safety elements.
The Safari has earned a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP (New Car Assessment Program), providing independent verification of its protective capabilities.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy given that many competitors in the segment have not subjected their vehicles to such independent testing.
Driver assistance features include a tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines.
While not as comprehensive as the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) packages offered by some competitors, these features enhance everyday safety and convenience.
Ownership Experience: The Long View
Vehicle ownership extends well beyond the initial purchase, and the Safari experience benefits from Tata’s continuously improving dealer network and after-sales service.
The company has made significant strides in customer satisfaction metrics in recent years, addressing historical concerns about service quality and parts availability.
The standard 2-year/unlimited kilometer warranty provides basic coverage, with extended warranty options available for those planning longer ownership periods.
Service intervals of 15,000 kilometers reduce maintenance frequency and associated costs compared to some competitors with 10,000-kilometer schedules.
Fuel efficiency, while not the Safari’s strongest suit, remains reasonable considering the vehicle’s size and performance.
The diesel engine returns approximately 14-16 kilometers per liter in highway conditions and 10-12 kilometers per liter in urban environments – figures that make it economically viable for daily use despite rising fuel costs.
Total cost of ownership benefits from Tata’s focus on localization, with spare parts pricing generally competitive compared to similarly sized vehicles. The Safari’s strong resale value in the used car market further enhances its long-term value proposition.
Tata Safari: Heritage Redefined
The modern Safari represents a thoughtful reimagining of what this nameplate means in today’s context.
Rather than creating a direct successor to the original body-on-frame vehicle, Tata has crafted a thoroughly contemporary interpretation that prioritizes the attributes most valued by current buyers – space, comfort, features, and road presence – while maintaining reasonable capability and unmistakable character.
Some purists may lament the departure from the original formula, but the Safari’s market success suggests that Tata correctly identified evolving consumer preferences.
By focusing on family-friendly versatility without sacrificing distinctive design and driving dynamics, the Safari creates its own identity while honoring its heritage.
In a segment increasingly crowded with three-row offerings from both domestic and international manufacturers, the Safari distinguishes itself through a combination of road presence, interior spaciousness, and value.
It represents not just Tata’s flagship offering but a statement about the company’s evolution from a value-focused manufacturer to one capable of producing genuinely aspirational products.
The Safari’s continued popularity amid newer competitors speaks to its fundamental rightness as a product – a vehicle that satisfies both emotional and practical considerations while providing a ownership experience that builds upon, rather than merely trades on, a storied nameplate.