This is my second review on the Tata Safari. The earlier one was written based on the ordinary safari 4 x 4 1998 model. now I have acquired the 4 x 4 Limited edition and , boy, this one is great. TATA has completely changed the vehicle.
To begin with the engine- though it is the same 90 hp powerplant, is seems a lot smoother and much more responsive, thanks to the ECM. Also after running 55000 kms, there is no signs of wear and smoke from the exhaust. and easily passes puc tests.
The power steering is now really light and driving is easy and responsive. almost like the honda city and considering such a huge car, is terrific.
The suspensions and soft and you can drive at 90 kms on rough roads and you will barely feel a bump.
The gearbox is new, the normal type gearbox, not the old version which was really difficult to change gears., and gear shifting is a breeze. only problem is at a speed of 25-35 kmph. it seems a little too high for second gear and you really have to rev high, and too low for third gear and the engine knocks.
The car easily cruises at 135 kmph and feels stable at high speeds.
Mileage is poor but what can you expect from such a big car. gives about 7 in the city and 9 on the highway with the aircon on.
Plus you have the shift on the fly 4 x 4 drive, where you can shift into 4 wheel drive at the turn of a knob even at 65 kmph. You have to stop to put it into the low ratio mode.
The aircon is powerful and cools well albeit a little less when you start the rear aircon too. Also you feel a lack in power when the aircon is on.
Drawbacks-low mileage and low power. Another 20 hp would have been perfect.
Service-the service centers are poor and the staff is not at all helpful. Makes sense to get any work done outside in your friendly neighbourhood garage.
THE OFF ROAD CAPABILITIES OF THIS SUV IS HOWEVER QUITE POOR. due to the low powered engine. but can get you thru normal off roading. however for serious off roading, no SUV will do. you will need jeeps like the mahindra classic
The biggest change is in the interiors. It is simply fabulous. Silver finish dashboard and gear knob. Plenty of features like electronic fuel cap release.electric mirrors. Plush leather seats, leather steering, leather gear stick boot. Light in the glove box. And to mention the gimmicks like CD/VCD changer, TV screens, reverse camera, refrigerator. Even the door claddings are beautiful to look and feel. The power window switches are the new type, incases in a steel plate, so are the door locks and handles on the inside.
Power windows are absolutely noiseless, and the windows just seems to glide up and down.
On the whole this SUV IS A SERIOUS CHALLENGE TO ANY OF THE IMPORTED ONES AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET NOW, AND A WHOLE LOT CHEAPER.
This limited version is not cheap at all. Will set you back about 13 lacs, but then it is worth every cent of the money. But then don’t settle for anything less than the limited edition, or you will be sorely disappointed.