Tata Safari has been quite a success for Tata Motors ever since its launch in India. People have really embraced the revived iconic SUV with open arms. The practicality of the 6/7 seat configuration, bold and modern appearance and a ton of features packed into the SUV are some of the attractions that the Safari offers. However, Tata Motors had announced earlier that this platform also is capable of incorporating an AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) setup if the customers demand. There have been camouflaged images of the Safari that have emerged on the internet and there are enough reasons to expect that it might well be either a 4×4 version or a petrol version of the Safari. Let us discuss what this might suggest.
Also read: Tata Safari vs MG Hector Plus – Engines, Specs, Prices, Features, Safety Comparison!
Tata Safari – Camouflaged Images
There are not too many changes that are apparent having looked at the spy images. This means that The front end resembles the Harrier with the LED DRLs on the bonnet, Xenon HID Projector headlamp unit on the bonnet and the chrome tri-arrow marking on the front grille. The side lets you know the length and the typical silhouette of the Safari with the stepped-up rear roof and roof rails. The large 18-inch machined alloys make the SUV look bold and muscular. The rear looks sporty with LED tail lamps connected by a blacked-out glass housing. Overall, the flagship offering from Tata Motors does look premium enough from the outside. All these design elements are expected to continue irrespective of if it is an AWD version or a new petrol variant.
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Tata Safari – Interiors and Features
When you enter inside the new Safari, you are greeted with the Oyster White colour scheme with Ashwood insert on the dashboard with a soft touch and anti-reflective surface. The Safari is filled with features to the brim including a large Panoramic Sunroof with anti-pinch function, Reclining Second Row Seats, Ambient Mood Lighting, Automatic Temperature Control, Cooled Storage Box, 6-way Powered Driver Seat with adjustable lumbar support. On the tech front, there is an 8-inch Floating Island Touch Screen Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 9-speaker JBL audio system, Instrument Cluster with a 7-inch Coloured TFT Display, Voice Recognition and Bluetooth connectivity. Then there is the connected car tech from Tata Motors called the iRA (Intelligent Real-time Assist) with functions like Geo and time-fencing, Valet Mode, Live Tracking, Intrusion Alert, Live Vehicle Diagnostics, Drive Pattern Analysis, Remote Commands, Over-the-air updates and much more.
Also read: Upcoming Mahindra XUV700 might get a hybrid powertrain!
Tata Safari – Current Engine Specifications, Prices and Rivals
The Safari comes with a sole 2.0-litre Kryotec Diesel engine making 170PS and 350Nm mated to either a 6-speed manual or an automatic gearbox option. Currently, there is no petrol engine on offer. The prices of the Tata Safari start at Rs 14.99 and go all the way up to Rs 21.81 lakh, ex-showroom. If there comes an option of an AWD variant, it might cost a bit more than this. The direct rival of the Safari is the MG Hector Plus which is offered in both petrol and diesel powertrain options. This could potentially be a reason if Tata decides to bring a petrol version of the Safari. Also, to be more accessible, it might think of the 4×4 option to challenge MG. With time, we will get to know more about this. The other rival of the Safari will be the upcoming Hyundai Alcazar, which is based on the Creta along with the upcoming Mahindra XUV700.
Also read: What are Front, Mid and Rear Engine Cars – Pros and Cons!
Image Source: Parked In Pune