The Safari is a break from TELCO’s past and a quantum leap forward in manufacturing world class passenger cars. The Safari is made with the latest modern manufacturing techniques & design processes to ensure quality. The design is very contemporary and fresh and seems to have been made so in order to please everyone. This machine has a very imposing street presence. The Safari uses the same engine that powers also powers the Sierra Turbo SUV, the 1948cc 483DL motor. The engine is fairly silent and smooth, thanks to comprehensive sound deadening and further refinement of this power plant. The fit and finish is also of the top quality. This is indeed a very aplaudable effort from the House of TATA.

In terms of Ride & handling, the safari performs well. The low-ratio gearbox and permanent four-wheel drive plus healthy ground clearance make it competent off-road.

The turbo diesel engine is very smooth when revved, also as it must be much of the time and the driveline is quite steady. The gearshift Is slick and the cabin is again designed to be not invaded by too much wind and road noise even at high speeds. On the face of it the Safari is a bargain, offering Land Rover Discovery size and style for less than Freelander money, and the running costs aren’t unbearable for a hulking 4×4.

A hardy engine that started life long ago as a Peugeot unit but has since been modified, plus a stout chassis and strong four-wheel-drive bits should ensure the Tata stands up to hard use well. India’s finest is as big as a Land Rover Discovery and even has the slight hump in its roof to improve rear headroom. It’s a seven-seater with a sizeable boot that can be extended by folding down the split rear seats, which divide 60/40 for added versatility.

The Safari has an immobilizer as required by law, and that is about as far as it goes for security provision. The situation is also poor for safety equipment. There is a driver’s airbag available, and a passenger’s airbags are also available as a part of the extra features. Anti-lock brakes are also fitted to bring about greater breaking efficiency.

The Safari is generally well kitted out, especially considering its modest, for the size and the price. Air-conditioning, alloy wheels, metallic paint, all-round electric windows, power steering and remote central locking are all included. The only remaining options that can be available are a CDchanger and satellite-navigation.