Tata Safari review

Exterior

 The Safi looks good and has lots of road prescence. The flared up wheel arches, chrome bash plate, huge wheels and a few other bits make it look rugged and intimidating. In a good way it looks utilitarian and practical. But after many years since launch it's starting to look dated.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

 The safari has phenominal comfort especially at the back where there is massive space in all directions and legendary thigh support. The seats are very comfortable and the beige theme makes the experience better. Seating positions are great the boot too is massive and the whole experience is enriched by the host of features like reverse camera, DVD players, headphone sockets, audio remote, etc. No other car in this price segment gives you this comfort the safari does and if that is your main priority then this is a great car for you. The only problem is with the fit and finish which is not that great and can develop a few occasional squeaks and rattles.

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

 Safari's engine is slow it takes time to accelerate and it is noisy at high speeds it also has turbo lag so you have to keep it at high revs for power. At certain revs it is so powerful that it can pin you to your seat. But what spoils all this and makes it slow is the hefty weight. Fuel economy is just average not too bad but by no standards is it good either. The gearbox is mushy and can mishift occasionally. So thi is not a good car to drive it's better to hire a chauffeur and enjoy the comfort and luxury of the backseat.

Ride Quality & Handling

 What also makes this car not good to drive is the handling, its got lots of body roll and a lifeless steering. The chassis does not have too much mechanical grip and the soft suspension doesn't help that. The only thing that saves it is the massive grippy tyres. So while the handing further decentuates the driver involvement, the ride accentuates the comfort, it's like a magic carpet and glides over every bump with ease, the only problem is the suspension noise.

Final Words

 This is a great car with good looks, great interiors, great ride and good features. And if these are your priorites and if your going to be chauffeur driven then it's your car. But it could do with some improvement in many areas.

Areas of improvement  

 The safari's fit and finish, weight and driver involvement need to be improved. They also need to improve reliability too, to make a world class product.

 

Space, power, comfort, looks, features, ride qualityHandling, fit and finish, performance, efficiency, noise, weight