Tata Safari Facelift SUV Overview
The Safari nameplate holds an iconic status in India, as one of the first popular SUVs on Indian roads. After a brief hiatus, Tata Motors revived the Safari in early 2021 as a successor to the Harrier SUV. In late 2022, Tata introduced a Safari facelift with mild design changes and feature upgrades.
The facelifted Tata Safari 2023 carries forward virtues like head turning design, spacious cabin and proven diesel engine from its predecessor, while upping desirability with new color options and added features. Available in 6/7 seater layouts across 30 variants, prices now start from Rs 16.19 lakh for the base XT trim.
Does the refreshed Safari make for a worthy contender in its segment? Let’s take an in-depth look across different aspects to find out.
New Tata Safari 2023 Facelift Launch Details
Tata Motors unveiled the Safari facelift in October 2022 and it went on sale from mid November the same year. This 2023 MY refresh comes almost 2 years after the model’s initial launch.
Changes are mostly cosmetic with new exterior color options and minor styling upgrades to keep the Safari feeling contemporary. Additional features further up the ante when it comes to cabin comforts and connected technology.
Key highlights of new 2023 Safari facelift
- New dual tone color schemes
- Wireless Android Auto / Apple Carplay
- Updated SYNC 3 infotainment system
- Ventilated front seats
- Advanced ESP safety system
- Rear window sunshade
With theCHANGES, Tata has made its flagship SUV an even stronger offering to challenge the likes of MG Hector Plus, Mahindra XUV700 and Jeep Meridian in India’s competitive midsize SUV space.
Tata Safari Facelift Price List in India
| Variant | Price (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| XT | Rs 16.19 lakh |
| XT Adventure | Rs 17.45 lakh |
| XT Pure | Rs 17.45 lakh |
| XTA | Rs 18.19 lakh |
| XZ | Rs 18.95 lakh |
| XZA | Rs 20.10 lakh |
| XZ+ 6-seater | Rs 21.35 lakh |
| XZA+ 6-seater | Rs 22.65 lakh |
| Accomplished | Rs 23.15 lakh |
| XZ+ 7-seater | Rs 21.75 lakh |
| XZA+ 7-seater | Rs 23.05 lakh |
| Accomplished Adventure | Rs 23.80 lakh |
| Accomplished Pure | Rs 23.80 lakh |
| Accomplished Adventure DT | Rs 24.25 lakh |
| Accomplished Pure DT | Rs 24.25 lakh |
The above Tata Safari 2023 prices are introductory, ex-showroom Delhi. On-road price of top Accomplished 6/7 seater dual tone automatic model goes over Rs 30 lakh in cities like Mumbai, Pune, Chennai etc. depending on insurance and RTO charges applicable.
New Safari 2023 Variants Explained
The refreshed Tata Safari line-up has been categorized into 4 broad trims, further split into sub-variants each with unique value positioning:
XT – Base variant priced aggressively to target entry level SUV buyers with decent features. Offered in 6/7 seater versions.
Adventure / Pure – Mid level trims with styling and features distinguishing them aimed at young and style conscious buyers respectively.
XZ – Mid to high variant targeting feature lovers wanting premium experience without going all out on cost. Loaded with equipment including connected car tech, automatic transmission option etc.
Accomplished – Range topping variant designed for customers wanting a luxury SUV with all bells and whistles. Units produced in limited numbers, exclusive interior theme, bespoke badging to justify premium positioning over XZ.
Tata Safari 2023 Colors
Tata has introduced the Safari facelift in 7 color options:
- Cosmic Gold
- Stellar Frost
- Lunar Slate
- Oberon Black
- Stardust Ash
- Supernova Copper
- Galactic Sapphire
New shades being offered with the 2023 facelift Safari include Supernova Copper, Stardust Ash and Lunar Slate.
Some popular Safari color variants chosen by buyers are:
- Oberon Black
- Cosmic Gold
- Stellar Frost
The new metallic duotone color options add further flair and differentiation to the Safari. Customers can make their pick depending on preference for subtle or prominent looks.
Tata Safari Facelift Engine and Mileage
The 2023 Tata Safari draws power from the same Kryotec 2.0L turbocharged diesel engine as earlier. This motor churns out 167 bhp maximum power along with 350 Nm of peak torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic unit.
As per ARAI certification, the Tata Safari mileage stands at 16.3 kmpl for both manual and automatic variants. This makes it quite frugal for an SUV this size.
The Kryotec diesel unit makes the Safari well suited for highway cruising needs with its progressive power delivery and sustained torque build up. Low rpm tractability within the city is also adequate thanks to the turbocharger. The Hydraulic Shift Assist tech further enhances convenience during urban driving conditions.
Key Engine Specs:
- Displacement – 1956 cc
- Max Power – 167 bhp @ 3750 RPM
- Peak Torque – 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm
- Engine Layout – Transverse mounted, inline 4-cylinder
- Fuel system – Common rail direct injection
- Emission standard – BS6 compliant
New Tata Safari Dimensions
With dimensions reading 4661 mm long, 1894 mm wide and 1786 mm tall having a wheelbase of 2741 mm, the Safari is an imposing sight on roads while being practical for urban commuting despite its bulk.
Ground clearance stands at 205 mm which is par for the segment but could have been slightly more considering Indian road conditions. Higher variants get smarter suspension tuning for better high speed dynamics compared to entry models.
Transmission Options
The Safari comes paired to a choice of 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic depending on variant selected. The torque converter unit features manual mode along with Race and City driving modes to alter throttle responses.
All New Tata Safari Features
On the inside, the Safari adopts a clean yet striking layout with Ash Wood dashboard in top spec models and piano black finish around the center console. The brown / black upholstery and liberal use of chrome and piano black inserts makes it feel quite premium.
Cabin Features:
- Panoramic sunroof
- 8-way powered driver seat
- Leatherette seats
- Multi-functional flat bottom steering wheel
- Ambient lighting
- Automatic climate control
- Cruise control
- Engine start-stop button
- Drive/terrain response modes
- Electric parking brake
- Rain sensing wipers
- Auto headlamps
On the features front, Tata Motors equips the Safari comprehensively right from the base variant itself:
- 7 inch TFT screen for Driver Information System
- 9 speaker JBL sound system
- Wireless charger
- Android Auto / Apple CarPlay
- Connected car technology
- TPMS – Tyre pressure monitoring
- Rear AC vents
- Push button start / stop
- Multi drive modes
- Panoramic sunroof
- Power adjustable & ventilated front seats
- 64 color ambient lighting
- Electric parking brake
- Rain sensing wipers
- Automatic headlamps
Safety Equipment
- 6 airbags
- All wheel disc brakes
- ESP + EBD + ABS
- Hill descent control
- Hill hold assist
- Brake sway control
- Roll over mitigation
- Corner stability control
- Traction control modes
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
The 5 star Global NCAP safety rating testifies the solid protection engineered into the vehicle courtesy its rigid body shell and comprehensive safety kit even in base trims.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Accomplished variant of the Safari is equipped with the latest Tata ConnectNext touchscreen infotainment system. Key capabilities it enables include:
- 10.25 inch high resolution display
- Android Auto / Apple Carplay
- Text to speech recognition
- iRA personal assistant
- Natural voice tech enabled
- 8 speaker surround system
- Connected features access
Lower trims get the regular 7 inch floating island touchscreen unit with wired smartphone connectivity. Overall, Tata offers features matching or exceeding most rivals like Hector Plus and Meridian in the price segment.
Tata Safari Rivals and Comparison
The Tata Safari goes up against the likes of:
- Mahindra XUV700
- MG Hector Plus
- Tata Harrier
- Jeep Meridian
- Mahindra Scorpio N
Tata Safari vs Harrier:
Buyers confused between the Tata siblings can go through Tata Safari vs Harrier comparison to understand how they stack up. While they share the same engine and platform, the Safari clearly leads in road presence, features, space and brand image.
2023 Tata Safari Facelift Review and First Drive Experience
We tested the top-spec Safari Accomplished variant powered by the 2.0L Kryotec diesel mated to a smooth shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine pulls strong from low rpms and power delivery remains strong into triple digit speeds with the torque converter keeping revs under optimal range. Mileage returned during testing was 14 kmpl under mixed driving without any economy focus.
Ride and Handling
The Safari suspension tuned towards ride quality does a fine job of absorbing imperfections and smaller potholes at slow city speeds. As speeds build up though, sharper bumps do result in some vertical movements felt inside. Handling doesn’t inspire much confidence attacking corners with body roll apparent. However, as a comfortable 6/7 seater SUV for urban commuting or highway cruising for a family, its road manners don’t warrant criticism.
Steering offers adequate weighting and feels responsive adjusting direction through traffic. The throttle mapping allows measured inputs for parking speeds while opening up adequately when some quick acceleration is warranted. Large glass area all-round makes observations easy while reversing further aided by parking sensors and camera.
Verdict
The 2023 Tata Safari doesn’t feel significantly improved over earlier versions besides some cosmetic tweaks and additions. However, it still remains a formidable package combining head turning design, spacious and feature rich cabin, proven diesel engine and Tata’s service commitment.
If you always fancied a Safari and want to experience the road presence it commands without compromising on family practicality or features, the updated model makes a recommended buy in the midsize SUV segment.
Tata Safari Maintenance Costs
We estimate maintenance cost for the Safari diesel manual to come around Rs 9000 – Rs 10,000 annually involving 2-3 regular services with oil change, filter replacements and checking of all points as per schedule. This does not account for any major repairs or significant wear item replacements. Cost would be slightly higher around 15% for automatic transmission variants.
2023 Tata Safari On Road Price in Major Cities
| City | On road price |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | Rs 18.41 lakh onwards |
| Mumbai | Rs 19.68 lakh onwards |
| Bangalore | Rs 20.06 lakh onwards |
| Chennai | Rs 19.94 lakh onwards |
| Pune | Rs 19.74 lakh onwards |
| Hyderabad | Rs 19.62 lakh onwards |
| Kolkata | Rs 18.70 lakh onwards |
Prices indicated above are approximate for the base Safari XT variant inclusive of RTO and insurance charges. Exact costs vary depending on state/city level taxes applicable.
Popular Tata Safari Accessories
Here some popular official accessories Tata Safari owners opt for:
- Alloy wheels – for stylish appearance
- Ambient mood lighting – to accentuate cabin interior
- Sunshades – for better comfort and privacy
- Wireless charger – for convenient smartphone charging
- Body Side Moulding – protects doors from scratches
- Seat Cover – choice of custom fabric or leatherette
- Floor mats – retain new car feel for longer
Also available are addons like body covers, insulation felt lining, premium speakers etc. to customize the SUV as per liking.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The facelifted Tata Safari hasn’t been on sale long enough to accumulate sufficient customer reviews for analysis. However, Tata have overall improved quality and service standards in recent years which reflects in feedback for their latest products.
Based on data aggregated from Safari owners of earlier batches, here is a summary of positives and areas of improvement reported:
Positives
- Strong road presence
- Feature rich top variants
- Comfortable cabin experience
- Sufficient performance for intended use
- Competitive pricing
Pain Points
- Poor plastic quality in lower models
- Clutches and gears have inconsistencies
- Body roll felt at high speeds
- Struggles off-road with low GC
The new Safari impresses on most fronts and addresses earlier drawbacks through better standardization. While quality still doesn’t match German rivals, the 5 year extended warranty provides peace of mind against issues faced.
FAQs on Tata Safari Facelift
What are the top features of new Tata Safari 2023?
Ventilated front seats, electronic parking brake, connected car technology, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, 10.25 inch touchscreen etc. depending on variant.
Is Tata Safari an 8 seater SUV?
No. Tata Safari is offered in 6 or 7 seater layouts only. Middle row is either captain chairs (6 seater) or 60:40 split bench (7 seater) based on version.
Is Safari better than Harrier?
Yes, the Safari clearly leads the Harrier in road presence design, cabin space, features on offer and brand image. It demands a premium positioning as a result.
What are the Tata Safari colors offered?
The new 2023 Safari is available in 7 color options – 3 of them dual tones. Popular shades are Oberon Black, Cosmic Gold and Stellar Frost.
Does Safari have a sunroof?
Yes higher variants including XZ, XZA and range topping Accomplished versions get an electric panoramic sunroof.
Buying Advice – Should You Consider New Tata Safari?
For customers looking at 7 seat SUV options like Hector Plus and XUV700, the Safari deserves strong consideration. Buyers wanting to combine style, features and brand trust can also shortlist it. With Tata having improved aftersales commitment lately, the new 2023 Safari ends up as an appealing package for many.
