Tata Buzzard Diesel

The Tata Safari, or Buzzard as it was initially known, is a 7-seater SUV that builds upon the success of the Tata Harrier. It shares the same Omega platform and design philosophy but is distinguished by its elongated rear end to accommodate the third row of seats. The vehicle features a more powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 170 hp, paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The interior is well-appointed with features like electronic park brake, auto-dimming IRVM, multiple charging ports, and a robust audio system. Safety is a priority with six airbags, ABS, EBD, ESP, and other advanced safety features. The Safari also offers comfortable seating, especially in the third row, and a monocoque platform that ensures smooth handling. Despite some minor limitations like reduced boot space and limited color options, the Tata Safari stands out as a stylish, capable, and feature-rich SUV in its segment.

The Tata Buzzard, now known as the Tata Safari in the Indian market, is a compelling option for those seeking a 7-seater SUV with a strong blend of style, comfort, and performance. My experience with this vehicle has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly with its powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 170 hp, which makes it more potent than its 5-seater counterpart, the Harrier. The automatic transmission is seamless and enhances the driving experience significantly. The SUV boasts excellent NVH levels, a comfortable and feature-rich interior, and robust safety features including six airbags and advanced driver assistance systems. However, there are some minor drawbacks such as limited boot space when all three rows are in use and the absence of certain modern features like wireless Android Auto and CarPlay, though these have been addressed in later updates. Overall, the Tata Safari is a solid choice for families or those needing a versatile and capable SUV.

Tata Motors has not yet announced an official launch date for the Buzzard in India, but it is speculated to hit the market soon. The vehicle has been seen in various spy shots, indicating that it is in the final stages of testing. The Buzzard will likely feature updated interior and exterior designs, along with advanced safety features.

The Tata Buzzard is expected to be priced around Rs 15 lakh in India, making it a competitive option in the mid-size SUV segment. The vehicle will likely come with the same powertrain as the Harrier, including a 2.0-liter diesel engine and both manual and automatic transmission options. I believe the pricing will be a key factor in its market success.

The Tata Buzzard is expected to compete directly with other 7-seater SUVs in the Indian market, such as the Mahindra XUV700 and the upcoming Hyundai Alcazar. Its competitive pricing and feature-rich interior are likely to be key selling points. I think it has a good chance of gaining significant market share.

The Buzzard is anticipated to inherit several features from the updated Harrier, including a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Additionally, it may include ADAS semi-autonomous driving functionalities, enhancing its appeal to tech-savvy buyers.

The engine of the Tata Buzzard, a 2.0-liter Multijet diesel, is produced by Fiat (FCA India) in Pune and is known for its strong performance and fuel efficiency. This engine is also used in other popular models like the Jeep Compass and MG Hector in the Indian market.

The Tata Safari, the Indian variant of the Buzzard, is priced competitively in the market. Ex-showroom prices start around Rs 15 lakh and can go up to Rs 20 lakh for the top-end variants. On-road prices, including taxes and other costs, can range from approximately Rs 17 lakh to Rs 23 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. This pricing makes it an attractive option compared to other 7-seater SUVs in the market, offering a good balance of features, performance, and value. However, its important to note that prices can vary based on the region and any additional features or customizations chosen.

When it comes to mileage, the Tata Safari diesel variant is reasonably efficient. With an ARAI-certified mileage of around 14-16 kmpl, it is suitable for both city and highway driving. In real-world conditions, you can expect a mileage of about 12-14 kmpl, which is respectable given the vehicles size and power output. This makes it a viable choice for those concerned about running costs, especially when considering the overall package of performance, comfort, and features.