Tata Safari Facelift Review: Flagship SUV Goes More Upmarket
When Tata Motors unveiled the facelift of the Tata Safari, the anticipation was palpable. After all, this isn’t just any SUV; the Safari has carved a name for itself in the Indian automotive market, becoming synonymous with adventure, spaciousness, and a hefty dose of rugged charm. So, does the 2025 version live up to the legacy? I recently had the opportunity to take the Tata Safari facelift for a drive, and here’s what I found.
First Impressions: A New Face for a Familiar Legend
Pulling up to the Safari, the first thing that strikes you is its bold new design. The updated front fascia, with the revamped grille and sharp LED headlamps, gives the Safari a more aggressive stance. The sleek lines and sculpted bodywork enhance its premium appeal. Tata has clearly attempted to place the Safari more in line with upmarket competitors, and at first glance, they’ve succeeded.
As I stepped inside the cabin, the upscale feel hit me instantly. The new dual-tone interiors, soft-touch materials, and larger touchscreen infotainment system all contribute to an inviting atmosphere. The layout is intuitive, making it easily accessible for both driver and passengers.
Performance: Smooth and Strong
Under the hood, the Safari facelift retains its 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which has been a crowd favorite. With a power output of around 170 bhp and a hefty torque figure of 350 Nm, the performance is certainly commendable. During my drive through some winding roads, I was pleasantly surprised by the automatic transmission’s responsiveness. The shifts were smooth, making merging into faster lanes or overtaking a breeze.
One of my companions during the drive mentioned the Safari’s capability for off-roading. While I stayed primarily on well-paved roads, the Safari showed no signs of hesitation. Tata’s Terrain Management System, now included in this variant, should make light work of rough patches. If you’re a weekend warrior looking to escape the city life, the Safari won’t disappoint.
Comfort and Space: Highway Hero
One of the enduring qualities of the Safari has been its space, and the facelift emphasizes that. The three-row seating arrangement is complemented by ample legroom, making it suitable for both family trips and long journeys with friends. Even with five adults onboard, space is generous, with a sizeable boot to accommodate luggage.
Tata has integrated a panoramic sunroof in this facelift, adding to the airy feel inside the cabin. Were I to take this on a road trip, I can already imagine the starlit skies it would frame during those stops at scenic locations.
Technology and Features: An Élite Upgrade
The infotainment system in this facelift is a massive leap forward. The 10.25-inch touchscreen is both crisp and user-friendly, packed with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, the premium sound system breathes life into playlists, making even the longest drives enjoyable.
Safety, as expected from Tata, remains a priority. With multiple airbags, advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and a solid crash test rating, the Safari ensures that families feel secure while cruising.
Comparing Competitors: A Class Apart
When you stack the 2025 Tata Safari against competitors like the MG Hector and Hyundai Alcazar, it’s clear Tata has positioned this SUV smartly. While the Hector boasts a rich feature list, there’s a level of ruggedness and stature that the Safari brings to the table. The Alcazar, while offering a lovely setup, sometimes feels a notch below in overall spaciousness and road presence.
Pricing: Worth Every Penny
The facelifted Tata Safari starts at approximately INR 15.65 lakh and goes up to around INR 24.50 lakh for fully loaded variants. Given the extensive features, performance, and Tata’s trusted service network, this seems a reasonable ask in today’s market.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Look
Pros:
- Striking new design with a premium feel
- Spacious and comfortable interiors
- Capable performance with off-road abilities
- Advanced technology and safety features
Cons:
- Fuel efficiency could be better
- Some rivals offer more plush interiors
- Watching the price creep up with options
Conclusion: A Safari for the Modern Adventurer
Ultimately, the Tata Safari facelift stands as a testament to Tata’s ability to innovate while honoring its legacy. With the infusion of premium features, safety, and robust performance, it caters to the modern Indian family looking for both comfort and adventure.
If you’re in the market for an SUV that offers hefty road presence, versatility, and a snug driving experience, the Tata Safari 2025 Automatic should certainly be on your shortlist. The spirit of adventure awaits, and the Safari is ready to take you there. Drive it, and you may just find yourself yearning for the open road ahead.
Utsav is an automobile enthusiast and auto news writer with 2+ years of experience in the Indian car industry. He has covered major launches, done detailed car reviews, and follows trends in the EV segment.