Tata Safari 2025 Automatic Review: A 3,000km Journey
As I buckle up in the driver’s seat of the Tata Safari, I can’t help but feel a thrill of excitement. The iconic SUV from Tata Motors has always held a special place in the hearts of Indian drivers, but how does it fare in a real-world scenario after 3,000 kilometers? Buckle in as I take you through my long-term review of the Tata Safari 2025, which promises to blend practicality and luxury on Indian roads.
Getting Started: First Impressions
Walking up to the Tata Safari always feels like an event. Its bold and muscular stance commands attention, with sharp LED headlights and the signature grille giving it a truly imposing character. Inside, the spacious cabin embraces you with luxury and modernity. The seats are well-cushioned and offer ample space, even for those long journeys. The automatic variant I drove comes equipped with a smooth, 6-speed transmission that seamlessly transitions through gears, making city driving a breeze.
The Mahindra XUV700 Comparison
At the outset, it’s essential to highlight the competition. The Mahindra XUV700 is a strong contender in this segment, known for its tech-savvy features. However, stepping into the Tata Safari, I was immediately reminded of how Tata’s build quality feels solid and reassuring. The material quality inside the Safari, from the leatherette upholstery to the soft-touch finishes, adds a touch of elegance that’s sometimes overlooked in competitors.
Driving Dynamics: A Long Drive Test
Over the course of 3,000 kilometers, the Safari took me through diverse terrains: from the bustling cityscapes of Mumbai to the serene valleys of Lonavala, and even the rugged byroads of Maharashtra. The ride quality is exceptional; the suspension soaks up bumps effortlessly, providing a plush experience. I even took it off-road and was pleasantly surprised by its capabilities. The driving modes—from Eco to Sport—alter the dynamics significantly, catering to your mood and driving conditions.
Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
The Safari is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine, which delivers a robust 170 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Acceleration is peppy, making it easy to overtake those pesky tempo drivers in heavy traffic. However, it’s worth noting that in Eco mode, the performance is toned down, emphasizing fuel efficiency, which saw me averaging about 15 km/l on a highway stretch. Impressive for a vehicle of this size!
Tech and Features: The Modern Touch
When it comes to tech, the 2025 model doesn’t disappoint. The large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, and the addition of features like a 360-degree camera and connected car technology does enhance the overall experience. Wireless charging is another plus, ensuring that your devices remain powered during those weekend getaways.
That said, the ambient lighting in the cabin and the premium sound system truly redefine the driving experience, especially during late-night drives. However, I did face some connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay, which could be a minor annoyance for those who rely heavily on it.
Comfort & Space: Perfect for Families
As a pet lover, I often travel with my furry friend. The spacious second-row seats comfortably accommodated my dog’s car seat and had enough legroom for passengers to stretch out. The boot space is substantial, easily fitting in luggage for a family trip. The large panoramic sunroof adds to the airy feeling inside the cabin, making every drive a pleasant experience.
Safety Features: A Solid Build
In terms of safety, the Tata Safari comes equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, and various driving aids, making it one of the safest SUVs in its category. Having driven through heavy rains and slippery roads, I can vouch for its stability and grip—a reassurance for any family looking for a road trip machine.
The Price Factor
The Tata Safari is priced competitively, starting around ₹15 lakh for the base variant and going up to ₹25 lakh for the fully-loaded automatic version. In this pricing range, it stands tall against rivals, offering a blend of features, space, and comfort that’s hard to beat in the market. Given the rising prices of related models, this could be a smart option for buyers looking to get the most bang for their buck.
Pros and Cons: The Final Verdict
Pros:
- Spacious and premium interiors
- Great ride comfort and driving dynamics
- Solid safety features
- Impressive fuel efficiency for its class
Cons:
- Occasional tech glitches
- Slightly less agile in tight parking spaces compared to smaller SUVs
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Tata Safari?
The Tata Safari 2025 is more than just a car; it’s a lifestyle statement. It strikes that perfect balance between being a family SUV and an adventure companion. If you’re in the market for a spacious and feature-rich vehicle that can handle anything from school runs to spontaneous weekend trips, this could be your ideal pick.
While it has its quirks, the overall package it offers makes it a worthy contender in the crowded SUV landscape. So, whether you’re cruising through city traffic or setting off on the open road, the Tata Safari stands ready, with plenty of room for adventures—both big and small.
Happy driving!
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.