The Tata Safari is more than just a vehicle; it’s an icon in the Indian automotive landscape. Launched in 1998 by Tata Motors, one of India’s leading automobile manufacturers, the Safari has evolved over the years from a rugged off-roader to a sophisticated family SUV, maintaining its position as the company’s flagship offering.
Known for its commanding presence, spacious interiors, and robust build, the Tata Safari has captured the hearts of SUV enthusiasts for over two decades. This article delves into the journey of the Tata Safari, its current avatar in 2025, and what makes it a standout choice in the competitive SUV market.
A Brief History of the Tata Safari
The Tata Safari made its debut in 1998 as a mid-size SUV designed to cater to India’s diverse terrains and growing demand for versatile vehicles. Built on a body-on-frame platform derived from the Tata Telcoline, the first-generation Safari was powered by a 2.0-liter Peugeot-sourced turbodiesel engine producing 87 PS.
It offered a five-speed manual gearbox with an optional 4WD system, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The name “Safari” was chosen to highlight its adventurous spirit, and it quickly became a symbol of ruggedness and reliability.
Over the years, the Safari underwent several updates. In 2005, it received a significant facelift with a 3.0-liter Dicor diesel engine, followed by the introduction of the 2.2-liter Dicor engine in 2007, boosting power to 140 PS.
The Safari Storme, launched in 2012, further refined the model with modern styling and improved features, cementing its reputation as a tough, capable SUV. However, stricter BS6 emission norms led to its discontinuation in 2020.
In 2021, Tata Motors revived the Safari nameplate with a completely reimagined model. Unlike its predecessors, the second-generation Safari shifted to a front-wheel-drive, monocoque architecture based on the OMEGARC platform (a derivative of Land Rover’s D8 platform), shared with the Tata Harrier.
This marked a transition from a hardcore off-roader to a premium, family-oriented SUV, aligning with changing consumer preferences.
The Tata Safari in 2025: Design and Features
As of April 2025, the Tata Safari continues to uphold its flagship status with a bold design, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on safety and comfort. The latest iteration, updated with the 2023 facelift and further refined in 2025, showcases Tata Motors’ commitment to blending luxury with practicality.
Exterior Design
The 2025 Tata Safari boasts a striking and modern appearance. Its front fascia features a sleek, full-width LED light bar with sequential turn indicators, vertically stacked LED headlights, and a body-colored grille that exudes sophistication.
The redesigned bumpers, 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels (on top variants), and connected LED tail lamps at the rear enhance its premium appeal. Available in a range of vibrant colors such as Stellar Frost, Galactic Sapphire, Supernova Copper, and the exclusive matte black Stealth Edition, the Safari commands attention on the road.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside, and the Safari offers a spacious, well-crafted cabin designed for comfort and convenience. It is available in both 6-seater (with captain seats in the middle row) and 7-seater configurations.
The dashboard features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital driver display, and premium materials like leatherette upholstery and wooden inserts. Dual-zone climate control, ventilated front and rear seats, and a voice-assisted panoramic sunroof with mood lighting elevate the experience.
The third row, often a compromise in SUVs, is genuinely usable for adults on short trips, with a boot space of 420 liters with all seats up, expandable to 827 liters with the third row folded. The attention to detail, such as 64 multi-color ambient lighting options and a 10-speaker JBL sound system, ensures a luxurious and immersive journey.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2025 Safari is packed with advanced technology. The infotainment system supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Tata’s iRA Connected Car Technology 2.0, offering over 250 voice commands in multiple languages via Amazon Alexa and Tata Voice Assistant.
Features like a 360-degree surround-view camera, wireless charging, a gesture-controlled powered tailgate, and a 45W C-Type fast charger cater to modern needs. The inclusion of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Level 2, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and autonomous emergency braking, adds a layer of convenience and safety.
Performance and Engine Specifications
Under the hood, the 2025 Tata Safari retains its proven 2.0-liter Kryotec diesel engine, delivering 167.6 bhp at 3750 rpm and 350 Nm of torque between 1750-2500 rpm. This BS6 Phase 2-compliant engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
While a petrol variant has been speculated for international markets, the current lineup remains diesel-only in India. The Safari offers three drive modes: Eco, City, and Sport, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their needs. Its monocoque construction and electric power steering improve ride quality and handling, making it agile despite its size.
The suspension absorbs bumps effectively, ensuring a comfortable ride, though some vibrations may be felt in the footwell at low speeds. Fuel efficiency is impressive for its segment, with an ARAI-claimed mileage of 16.3 kmpl for the manual variant and 14.1 kmpl for the automatic. Real-world figures may vary based on driving conditions, but the 50-liter fuel tank ensures decent range for long drives.
Safety: A Top Priority
Safety has always been a hallmark of the Tata Safari, and the 2025 model continues this legacy. It earned a 5-star rating from Global NCAP, scoring 33.05/34 for adult protection and 45/49 for child safety.
Standard safety features include 6 airbags (7 in higher variants, including a driver knee airbag), ABS with EBD, electronic stability program (ESP), hill-hold control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. The ADAS suite, 360-degree camera, blind-spot detection, and rear-cross traffic alert further enhance its safety credentials.
Variants and Pricing
The 2025 Tata Safari is available in multiple trims, ranging from the base Smart variant to the top-spec Accomplished Plus Stealth 6S AT. Ex-showroom prices start at ₹15.50 lakh and go up to ₹27.25 lakh, with on-road prices varying by location due to taxes and registration fees. Special editions like the Stealth Edition, launched to celebrate 27 years of the Safari, add a premium of ₹75,000 and are limited to 2,700 units, featuring a unique matte black finish and exclusive badging.
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Competitors and Market Position
The Tata Safari competes with strong contenders like the Mahindra XUV700, Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, and Kia Carens in India’s mid-size SUV segment. Its strengths lie in its bold styling, spacious interiors, top-tier safety, and value-for-money proposition.
However, it lacks a petrol or hybrid option and all-wheel-drive capability, which some rivals offer. Despite these gaps, the Safari’s premium appeal and Tata’s growing reputation for quality make it a popular choice.
The Future of Tata Safari
Looking ahead, Tata Motors has hinted at exciting possibilities for the Safari. Plans for a petrol variant, a potential 4×4 revival, and even an electric version (inspired by the Harrier EV concept) could broaden its appeal, especially in export markets. As consumer preferences evolve, the Safari is poised to balance its rugged heritage with modern luxury, ensuring its flagship status endures.
Conclusion
The Tata Safari has come a long way since its inception, transforming from a rugged off-roader to a sophisticated family SUV without losing its core identity. In 2025, it stands as a testament to Tata Motors’ engineering prowess, offering a compelling mix of design, technology, safety, and performance.
Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Tata Safari delivers an experience that’s both powerful and prestigious. For those seeking a versatile, premium SUV with a rich legacy, the Safari remains a top contender.
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