After meticulously researching and finally taking the plunge, I’ve spent the past two months exploring the Indian landscapes with my new companion, the 2024 Tata Safari Facelift. With over 6,000 kilometers already under its belt, it’s time to share my honest impressions and see if this refreshed SUV lives up to the hype.
Comfort:
First and foremost, comfort is king, and the Safari reigns supreme in this aspect. The plush, supportive seats envelop you, offering excellent cushioning even on extended journeys. The ample legroom and headroom in both rows ensure comfortable seating for five, while the panoramic sunroof adds a touch of airiness and natural light. However, the third row might feel cramped for adults on longer trips.
Features:
The revamped dashboard boasts a modern design, housing the new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The interface is responsive and user-friendly, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity keeping you entertained and connected on the go. The digital instrument cluster provides all the essential information clearly and stylishly. While the sound system delivers decent audio quality, it could benefit from a subwoofer for a richer bass experience.
Specifications:
My Safari comes equipped with the 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 170bhp and 350Nm of torque. It offers a peppy driving experience, especially in the lower gears, making highway cruising and overtaking a breeze. The 6-speed automatic gearbox shifts smoothly, although occasional lags can be felt in stop-and-go traffic. The ride quality is generally good, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease. However, the suspension feels slightly stiffer at lower speeds, making sharp turns a little less comfortable.
2024 Tata Safari Facelift Rivals:
The Safari faces stiff competition in the Indian market, with established players like the Hyundai Creta, Mahindra XUV700, and MG Hector Plus vying for attention. Compared to the Creta, the Safari offers a more spacious cabin and a powerful diesel engine, while the XUV700 boasts a wider feature set and a more modern design. The Hector Plus, on the other hand, undercuts the Safari in price but lacks its road presence and engine options.
Two Months In:
Here are some key takeaways from my short-term ownership experience:
Pros:
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- Responsive infotainment system with connectivity features
- Powerful and refined diesel engine
- Modern and stylish design
- Value for money proposition
Cons:
- Stiffer ride at lower speeds
- Occasional gearbox lag
- Third-row seating might be cramped for adults
- Certain features missing compared to some rivals
Verdict:
The 2024 Tata Safari Facelift is a compelling option for those seeking a comfortable, spacious, and feature-packed SUV without breaking the bank. Its powerful engine and modern design make it a worthy contender in the segment. While it has some minor drawbacks, the overall package is impressive, and I’m excited to see how it performs in the long run.
Beyond the Review:
- Fuel Efficiency: My real-world fuel efficiency has been around 14-15 kmpl in mixed driving conditions. Individual figures might vary depending on driving style and terrain.
- Long-term Reliability: With only two months of ownership, it’s too early to comment on long-term reliability. However, Tata has been improving its quality control in recent years.
- Maintenance Costs: Scheduled maintenance costs are reasonable, but unforeseen repairs could impact overall ownership costs.
- Test Drive and Comparison: Taking the Safari for a spin alongside its rivals is crucial to assess its ride quality, performance, and value proposition in a practical setting.
