Tata Safari vs Volkswagen Beetle

We spent a week with the Tata Safari in the updated guise and here are our findings

The recently launched Volkswagen Beetle is not your regular car. It’s an icon and is a celebration of the original Beetle which was on sale for more than six decades. It’s the crown jewel in Volkswagen’s history and is a car which gave the German giant recognition worldwide. Originally known as the people’s car, thanks to its reasonable price and low running costs, the new one though is anything but affordable. Priced at Rs 28.7lakh , the new car is more of an expensive accessory which is something you don’t need but rather something you want. At this price you can get many cars which are more practical and are better to drive, but these are not the reasons you buy a car like the Beetle anyway. It is a type of vehicle you will want for its retro appeal and the one which makes you feel special. So does the new Beetle feel special enough to justify its exorbitant price?

With plenty of body colour options, even a dual-tone as a first in this segment and with many new features, Tata Motors wants to ensure that the new Safari appeals to a wider audience. With its macho appearance, it still can be a symbol of authority while offering a premium and spacious cabin. Moreover, prospective buyers are being offered new technology, and added connectivity, while still being cocooned in safety. The pricing isn’t available yet, but if Tata Motors doesn’t ask for an unreasonable premium, it will be easy for a buyer to confirm his decision for it is quite appealing with the new changes.