Tata Safari Diesel VX

The Tata Safari Diesel VX is a formidable SUV that boasts a strong presence on Indian roads. It is powered by a 2.2 litre diesel engine, with newer models producing 168 BHP and 350 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. One of the standout features of the Safari is its brilliant ride quality, which is attributed to its long history of being tailored for Indian road conditions and the incorporation of Land Rover DNA. The SUV offers generous space, especially in the first and second rows, although the third row is somewhat cramped. It also features a range of modern amenities such as a 360 camera, dual digital displays, and level two ADAS. With a ground clearance of 200 mm and a shift-on-the-fly 4x4 option in some variants, the Tata Safari is well-suited for both on-road and off-road adventures. Its road presence is unmatched, and it continues to be a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts in India.

The Tata Safari Diesel VX is a robust and reliable SUV that has been a staple in the Indian market for decades. I have found it to be one of the best SUVs for highway driving, thanks to its rugged looks and powerful engine. The 2.2 litre VTT DICOR engine, particularly in the older models, delivers a maximum power of 140 bhp, which is more than sufficient for both city and highway use. However, one of the significant drawbacks, especially in the older variants, is the lack of an automatic transmission option, which can be a deal-breaker for some buyers. The newer models, though, have addressed this issue by offering both manual and automatic transmission options. Overall, the Tata Safari is known for its brilliant ride quality, generous space, and strong road presence, making it a solid choice for those seeking a durable and comfortable SUV.

The pricing for the Tata Safari Diesel VX in India varies based on the model year and the specific variant. For the newer models, prices start at around Rs 16.19 lakh for the base variant and can go up to Rs 27.34 lakh for the top-spec variant, ex-showroom. On-road prices would be higher, typically ranging from Rs 19 lakh to Rs 32 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. In the case of older models like the Safari Storme, prices used to start at around Rs 11.09 lakh and went up to Rs 16.43 lakh ex-showroom. The on-road prices for these models would have been around Rs 13 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. Its important to note that prices can fluctuate based on location, and its always a good idea to check with local dealers for the most accurate pricing.

When it comes to mileage, the Tata Safari Diesel VX is decent but not exceptional. The ARAI claimed mileage for the manual diesel variant is around 14.1 kmpl, while the automatic variant is slightly lower at 14.8 kmpl. In real-world conditions, you can expect around 10-13 kmpl in city driving and up to 14 kmpl on highways. This makes it a reasonable choice for those concerned about running costs, especially considering the vehicles size and power output.