Tata Safari Unveiled Ahead Of Launch As Production Starts

It looks similar to the Harrier SUV till the C-pillar and post that it gets a redesigned rear end in order to accommodate the extra row of seats. It also gets a step-up roof in order to make more headroom for the 3rd row of occupants. The rear profile looks more upright and features differently designed tail lamps. Other cosmetic changes that set the Safari apart from the Harrier come in the form of an updated front grille with chrome finished tri-arrow pattern, chrome surrounds for headlamps, a silver skid plate, a larger rear quarter glass and ‘Safari’ inscribed roof rails.

In terms of dimensions, the Safari is longer (63mm) and taller (80mm) than the Harrier but both the SUVs are identical in terms of width and wheelbase. 

On the inside, the cabin layout remains unchanged but the Safari gets a dual-tone black-beige interior instead of the black-brown theme on the Harrier. Tata will also offer a 6-seater version of the Safari with captain seats in the second row. On the features front, it will get up to 6 airbags, electronic stability control, hill launch assist, panoramic sunroof, auto AC, semi-digital instrument cluster, powered driver’s seat, an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a JBL sound system. Tata might also offer some additional features on the Safari in the form of front parking sensors, electronic parking brake and connected car tech.

Under the hood, the Safari will get the same 2.0-litre diesel engine as the Harrier. It makes 170PS and 350Nm and is mated to either a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Tata might also offer a turbocharged petrol engine on the Safari at a later stage. 

Prices of the new Safari are expected to range from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 21 lakh. It will take on the likes of the MG Hector Plus and the Mahindra XUV500.