The Tata Safari is the first SUV indigenously developed in India. One might consider it a bit obese and massive, but the Safari is a model to reckon with, due to its symbolism with the indigenous effort. At the beginning, it had many features common with the Sumo and an earlier avatar Sierra, but it has come quite of age currently. Currently, the Tatas have introduced the Safari Dicor to replace the Safari, but this rugged SUV is still available in both versions currently.
The petrol version of the Tata Safari is built around the five gear manual transmission that offers 16 V DOHC 486 PL MPFI engine. It is a five door vehicle with a seating capacity of 7 people. Capable of delivering around 10.2 kmpl on the highway and around 6.9 kmpl on the highway, it offers a respectable fuel economy of around 7.6 kmpl.
The diesel version of the Tata Safari is built around a 483 DL turbo charged engine with five speed manual transmission. It offers a slightly higher fuel economy of 12.8 kmpl on the highway and 9.1 kmpl in city driving conditions, offering a respectable overall fuel economy of 9.8 kmpl. It is accompanied with a 65 litre fuel tank, thus reducing the need for frequent refuelling during long journeys.
At the heart of the Tata Safari Dicor is the 2.2 L 16-Valove DOCH VTT DICOR (Direct Injection Common Overhead Rail) which offers around 12.1 kmpl on the highway and around 9.1 kmpl in city driving conditions. Though the fuel economy may sound a bit perturbing, it offers awesome power of 140 PS at 4000 rpm and 320 kg-m at 1700 rpm.
The exteriors of the Safari/Safari Dicor present the great SUV look to this vehicle with chrome finish and long bonnet. The interiors are more refined and definitive that comes with comfy seats and a well-appointed cabin.
The Tata Safari comes with a range of top class features that includes an attractive clock with rear wash-wipe and defogger. Also included in the top end versions of the Safari are a MP3 and VCD player. The Safari is really a spacious car that comes with ample leg room for driver and occupants.
The Safari comes with foldable seats, thus freeing up vital space if you need so for longer journeys. Also come with the Safari height adjustable seat belts, which are really convenient. Furthermore, they can considerably reduce the risk of injury in even of an unfortunate crash. What's more, the seats are height adjustable as well.
The tilt adjustable steering is an added advantage for the sake of convenience and while taking the Safari out on long rides.
The dash seems pretty well designed, but the quality of plastics although improving need some more refinement. For 4WD models, there's a shift on the fly switch, which allows easier 4x4 engagements. Also, the headlamp levelling device allows better view of the roads and terrain in night-driving situations.
The Tata Safari Dicor is available in the following variants
This car shares with other higher-end Tata Safari models, the powerful DiCOR engine delivering awesome power of 140 PS and a torque of 320 NM.
This beige and beautiful car has beige fabric seats with two-tone beige interiors. Almost all features are identical with the diesel version EX 4X4 except fuel type and some additional features. A first-rate combination of looks, size, weight and maneuverability, this Tata Safari shares with its diesel version, the EX 4X2, height adjustable driver seat, an electrical rear-glass demister, and an analog clock on center console. Other shared features include electrically operated remote fuel flap, key-less entry, Parking car locator where the roof lights can be turned on by remote, tubeless tyres, engine immobilizer, clear lens fog lamps, and an on-board CD MP3 player.
Features in excess of that found in the EX 4X4 variant include Anti Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), and dual Airbags both for driver and co-driver.
The Specifications tab above provides specific technical data on Safari DiCOR EXI 4x4 (petrol) categorized under the heads - fuel efficiency, engine, steering and suspension, body dimensions, and drive train. The Features tab provides specific data on Safari DiCOR EXI 4x4 (petrol) categorized under the heads - comfort, and safety features