Tata Safari 2025 Review: The Premium SUV, Reclaimed
Introduction: Reclaim Your Life in Grand Style
The Tata Safari, a nameplate synonymous with the Indian SUV, has been reborn with a mission to “Reclaim Your Life.” It’s no longer just a rugged vehicle; it’s a statement of sophisticated design, unparalleled safety, and premium comfort. Built on the legendary OMEGARC platform derived from Land Rover’s D8 architecture, the new Safari holds the distinction of being India’s safest vehicle, with top 5-star ratings from both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP. It challenges rivals like the Mahindra XUV700 and Hyundai Alcazar with a package focused on a commanding presence, luxurious interiors, and a comprehensive suite of technology, including advanced ADAS. This review explores how the new Safari redefines the premium 7-seater segment.
Design: A Grand Presence, Finer Details
The Safari’s design commands dominance. The front is defined by a new, imposing parametric grille and futuristic Bi-LED projector headlamps. A standout feature is the connected LED DRL strip with sequential turn indicators and a welcome animation that exudes modernity. The side profile is enhanced by segment-first R19 dual-tone spider alloy wheels and the iconic Safari door mascot. The rear makes a lasting impression with a redesigned tailgate featuring a connecting DRL strip, completing the vehicle’s sophisticated and powerful stance.
Inside, the Safari offers an oasis of elegance and craftsmanship. The cabin is bathed in a Signature Oyster White & Titan Brown interior theme, creating a rich and airy ambiance. Occupants are treated to ultra-premium Benecke Kaliko Oyster White leatherette seats with elegant deco stitching. The driver interacts with a first-of-its-kind dual-tone steering wheel with an illuminated logo. Multicolored mood lighting enhances the sense of space and highlights the cabin’s premium materials, creating an environment that is both visually stunning and highly functional.
Exterior Design:
Commanding presence with a parametric grille, connected LED lighting, and R19 spider alloy wheels.
Interior Design:
Luxurious and elegant with Oyster White leatherette seats, an illuminated steering wheel, and ambient mood lighting.
Performance: The Power to Complement Your Might
At the heart of the Safari is the proven Kryotec 2.0L Turbocharged Diesel engine, delivering a robust 170 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque. This engine is engineered for a powerful yet refined performance, mated to either a smooth 6-speed manual or a sophisticated 6-speed automatic transmission. The automatic variants feature an effortless E-Shifter and engaging Paddle Shifters for greater control.
The driving experience is highly adaptable, thanks to multiple Drive Modes (Eco, City, & Sport) and the bejeweled Terrain Response Mode selector (Normal, Rough, Wet). The Safari’s legendary capability is underpinned by its OMEGARC architecture, which ensures a perfect balance between a comfortable ride on highways and robust performance on challenging terrains. Features like Hill Hold Control and an advanced EGR system further enhance its dynamic prowess.
Powertrain:
170 PS Kryotec Diesel Engine with 350 Nm torque, paired with a 6-speed MT or AT with paddle shifters.
Driving Dynamics:
Terrain Response & Drive Modes provide a tailored and confident driving experience on any surface.
Technology: Upgrades that Elevate Your Experience
The new Safari features a cutting-edge technology suite designed to elevate every journey. The cockpit is dominated by an ultra-widescreen 31.24 cm Harman™ Touchscreen Infotainment system, complemented by a 26.03 cm digital cluster. This system supports wireless Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay™ and is paired with a premium 10-speaker JBL™ sound system. The user experience is further enhanced with a Gesture Controlled Powered Tailgate, a wireless charger, and 45W C-type fast chargers. Connected car technology is handled by iRA 2.0, which offers remote commands, vehicle security features, and live vehicle diagnostics.
Safety: The Uncompromising Safe Bet
Safety is the cornerstone of the new Safari. It is built on the robust OMEGARC architecture, derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform, and has achieved top 5-star safety ratings from both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP, making it the safest vehicle tested in India. The safety net includes 7 airbags (including a driver knee airbag) and an Advanced ESP with 17 functionalities. The comprehensive ADAS Level 2+ suite offers features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Blind Spot Detection. A 360° Surround View System, Hill Hold Control, and an Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold provide complete peace of mind in all conditions.
Comfort: Your First-Class Zone of Delight
The Safari is designed to be a sanctuary of comfort. It features Dual-Zone Fully Automatic Temperature Control and a voice-assisted panoramic sunroof. A standout feature is the segment-first ventilated seats in both the 1st and 2nd rows. The driver enjoys a 6-way powered seat with memory and welcome feature, while the co-driver seat has a 4-way powered adjustment with an Electric Boss Mode to create extra legroom for the passenger behind. Second-row passengers are further pampered with winged comfort headrests and retractable sunshades. Thoughtful touches like an air purifier, a front armrest with cooled storage, and smart A & C-Type chargers in all three rows ensure every journey is a delight.
Variants and Value: A Persona for Everyone
The Safari lineup is structured around distinct “Personas” to match different styles. It begins with the well-equipped Smart and Pure trims, which offer essentials like 6 airbags and a digital cockpit. The Adventure persona adds features like ADAS, a 360° camera, and terrain response modes. The top-tier Accomplished persona is the flagship, boasting a larger 31.24 cm touchscreen, a 10-speaker JBL system, ventilated seats, and a gesture-controlled tailgate. For those seeking a bolder statement, the #DARK and Stealth editions offer exclusive blacked-out aesthetics and top-of-the-line features, ensuring there’s a Safari perfectly tailored to every aspiration.
- Smart / Pure: The entry points with a 17.78 cm digital cockpit and 6 airbags.
- Adventure: Adds ADAS, 360° camera, R18 alloys, and Terrain Response Modes.
- Accomplished: The luxury flagship with a 31.24 cm infotainment system, 10-speaker JBL audio, and ventilated seats.
- #DARK / Stealth: Exclusive editions with blacked-out styling, R19 alloys, and top-tier features.
- Configurations: 6/7 seaters, Diesel, and 6-Speed MT/AT options available across personas.
Full Specifications: 2025 Tata Safari
Engine & Performance
- Engine: Kryotec 2.0L Turbocharged Diesel
- Max Power: 125 kW (170 PS) @ 3750 rpm
- Max Torque: 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-Speed MT / 6-Speed AT
- Drive Modes: Eco, City, Sport
- Terrain Modes: Normal, Rough, Wet (Adventure+)
Exterior Features
- Lighting: Bi-LED Projector Headlamps, Connected LED DRLs & Tail Lamps
- Animations: Welcome & Goodbye Animation on Front and Rear Lamps
- Wheels: Up to R19 Dual-Tone Spider or Stealth Black Alloy Wheels
- Convenience: Gesture Controlled Powered Tailgate, Rain Sensing Wipers
- Design: New Parametric Grille, Iconic Roof Rails, Shark Fin Antenna
Interior & Comfort Features
- Seating: Benecke Kaliko Oyster White Leatherette, 6/7 Seater Options
- Ventilation: Ventilated Seats for both 1st & 2nd Row (Captain Seats)
- Driver Comfort: 6-Way Powered Seat with Memory, Illuminated Dual-Tone Steering Wheel
- Passenger Comfort: 4-Way Powered Co-Driver Seat with Electric Boss Mode, 2nd Row Winged Headrests
- Climate Control: Voice-Assisted Dual Zone FATC, Air Purifier with AQI Display
- Ambiance: Voice-Assisted Panoramic Sunroof, Multicolored Mood Lights
- Convenience: Front Armrest with Cooled Storage, Rear Window Sunshields
Dimensions & Capacity
- Length: 4668 mm
- Width: 1922 mm (w/o mirrors)
- Height: 1795 mm
- Wheelbase: 2741 mm
- Fuel Tank: 50 L
- Seating: 6 or 7
Safety & Technology
- Safety Rating: 5-Star GNCAP & 5-Star BNCAP
- Airbags: 6 Standard, 7 on Accomplished+
- ADAS: Level 2+ with Adaptive Cruise Control (AT)
- Infotainment: Up to 31.24 cm Harman™ system
- Audio System: Up to 10 JBL™ Speakers with Subwoofer
- Connected Tech: iRA 2.0, Alexa Home-to-Car
Comparisons: Safari vs. XUV700, Alcazar, Hector Plus
The Safari stands as a formidable challenger in the premium 7-seater space. Against the Mahindra XUV700, the Safari distinguishes itself with superior certified safety ratings and a more premium, Land Rover-derived ride quality, though the XUV700 offers more powerful engine options. Compared to the Hyundai Alcazar and MG Hector Plus, the Safari provides a more robust, SUV-like feel, a more commanding road presence, and an unmatched safety proposition. While rivals may focus on specific features, the Safari’s strength lies in its holistic approach, blending top-tier safety, grand design, and a comfortable, sophisticated driving experience.
Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View
Pros:
- Unmatched Safety: Highest safety rating in India from both GNCAP and Bharat NCAP.
- Premium and Grand Design: Sophisticated styling with a commanding road presence.
- Luxurious and Comfortable Cabin: High-quality materials and features like ventilated 2nd-row seats.
- Excellent Ride & Handling: OMEGARC platform provides a superb balance of comfort and stability.
Cons:
- Single Engine Option: Only available with a diesel engine; no petrol or AWD variants.
- Engine Performance: While robust, it’s not as powerful as the petrol options from key rivals.
- Third-Row Space: The third row is best suited for children or shorter journeys, typical for the segment.
- Feature Distribution: The most advanced ADAS and tech features are reserved for the top Accomplished+ persona.
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Tata Safari is an outstanding choice for:
- The Safety-First Family: Buyers for whom the highest certified safety rating is the top priority.
- The Design-Conscious Buyer: Those who appreciate a sophisticated, modern design with a commanding presence.
- The Highway Cruiser: Families looking for a supremely comfortable and stable vehicle for long-distance travel.
- The Premium Experience Seeker: Individuals who want luxury features like ventilated rear seats and a high-end sound system without a luxury price tag.
Final Verdict: The New Benchmark for Safety and Style
The Tata Safari has successfully reclaimed its throne, but in an entirely new kingdom of luxury and safety. It makes an irrefutable case as the segment’s safest and most stylish offering, backed by dual 5-star crash ratings and a breathtaking design. The cabin experience, especially in the top “Accomplished” persona, is a masterclass in premium appointments and thoughtful comfort features. While it may not offer the outright engine power of some rivals, its Land Rover-derived chassis provides a ride quality that is simply a class above. For the discerning buyer who prioritizes safety, design, and comfort, the new Safari is not just another choice—it’s a destination.
Overall Rating: 4.8 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)