Tata Motors is all set to bring back the iconic Safari brand with its upcoming flagship SUV that’s slated to launch by the end of January 2021. The carmaker has confirmed that the official bookings for the new Tata Safari will begin in coming days. Interestingly, the new Safari will be the Tata Gravitas 7-seater SUV that broke cover at the last year’s Auto Expo. The model is aimed to appeal “those who are socially active, fun loving, travel in groups seeking out unique experiences and adventures”.
The new Tata Safari will be based on the Omega (Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced Architecture) platform that also underpins the Harrier 5-seater SUV. This modular platform is compatible to different body styles, electric powertrain and AWD (all-wheel-drivetrain) system. However, the company currently doesn’t have any AWD setup for a monocoque chassis based SUV like the new Safari.
Initially, the new Tata 7-seater SUV will be made available FWD (front-wheel-drive) system. It might get a 4X4 variant at a later stage. The last 4X4 vehicle the company had was the Hexa, which was a body-on-frame SUV. The new 7-seater Safari is likely to retain some of design bits from the original model such as aggressive front fascia, pronounced hood, stepped roof and high seating arrangement. Read – 9 Interesting Facts About Upcoming Tata Hornbill Mini SUV
Sporting an additional third row, the 2021 Tata Safari will offer more cabin space than the Harrier. In fact, it will measure 63mm longer and 80mm taller than its younger sibling. The carmaker will make a few noticeable cosmetic changes and offer new colour schemes to differentiate it from the Harrier. While the interior layout and most of features will be similar to the Harrier, it will come with a pack of new goodies.
For power, the new Tata Safari will use the Harrier’s 2.0L Kryotech turbocharged diesel engine that’s good enough for 170bhp. The SUV can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox.
