New Tata Safari

Tata Motors Ltd. has launched a new range of premium SUV, the 2.2 VTT engine range joins the Tata Safari DICOR line-up, with all-new looks and an indigenous VTT engine. Recently upgraded with a new robust engine, more power, better interiors and a face-lift, the DICOR is tough, utilitarian, and practical - the VTT is no less.

Safari works as a practical alternative to those who cannot afford the expensive SUVs. It is smart with contemporary looks and styling. It is a tad heavy for the output of the engines. There were no major improvements until Safari faced severe competition from the new-age SUVs.

With a lot of interior and exterior refinements, the Safari is available in one petrol variant: EXi with two drive configurations 4x4 and 4x2. It is also available in three DICOR variants: VX, EX, and LX, where VX and EX are available in 4x4 and 4x2 drive configurations and LX is available in a single 4x2 drive configuration. The Safari is also available in a single turbo diesel variant: 4x2 LX. Rugged and built to last, the new 4x4 is perfectly at home in city conditions, cruising on an open road or negotiating difficult terrain.

A 2.2-litre DICOR engine that produces 138 bhp and a torque of 320 Nm, the highest torque in its class, powers the Safari DICOR variants. The engine delivers decent pickup, making 0 to 100 kmph in less than 22 seconds. The SUV features a wishbone suspension in the front and coil springs in the rear. The 2-litre turbocharged and intercooled (LX 4x2) diesel engine produces 89 bhp and the 2-litre Inline-4 petrol generates a massive 125 bhp. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard across all variants.

Topping the scales at two tons, the DICOR is an excellent highway cruiser and can do a constant 80-120 km on overdrive without much gear shifts, but a lot of gear shifting is required in city driving. Ride quality and handling of this mammoth vehicle is good. Its braking, though impressive, screeches at high speeds.

Standard safety features on the LX include side impact bars, crumple zones, tilt and collapsible steering column, anti-submarine seats, central locking, child safety locks, and headlamp leveling. The EX adds fog lamps and a rear windscreen de-mister. The VX receives dual airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a rearview camera with LCD.

The Safari DICOR makes a great impression with its bold, rugged looks and styling. The SUV's front fascia displays a broad muscular stance with large bumpers and chunky 16-inch wheels while a rear spoiler and roof rails add a sporty touch.

Standard exterior features include alloy wheel rims, clear lens head and tail lamps, roof rails, rear spoiler with lamp, stylised front grille, bumper, side cladding, body-coloured outside rear view mirrors and body-coloured spare wheel cover.

The Safari cabin is airy and spacious, and interior comfort levels are high. The SUV rides high, giving the driver and passengers good visibility all around. Seats are comfortable and offer adequate knee and lumbar support. There is plenty of cargo and stowage space as well. But the fit and finish still invites refinement. The top-of-the-line variant DICOR VX adds a DVD player, twin screens, leather seats, a rear-view camera, ABS, and airbags.

Standard interior features include keyless entry, power steering, leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, electronic instrument cluster, audio system, height-adjustable driver's seat, electrically adjustable side-view mirrors and rear wiper, 60:40 split folding rear seats, spot reading lamps, cargo lamp and remote fuel flap.