Tata Safari Smart

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? You consider budget, safety, running costs, latest features, and after-sales service. What if there was an option that ticked many of these boxes, especially if you want a full-size SUV without breaking the bank? Enter the new Tata Safari Smart, an exciting addition to the popular Safari lineup. Let's see if this variant is the smart choice for you.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Tata Safari Smart shares the robust heart of its more expensive siblings. Under the hood, you get:

• Engine Type: 2.0-liter Kryotec Turbocharged Diesel Engine
• Maximum Power: 170 PS (168 bhp) at 3750 rpm
• Peak Torque: 350 Nm between 1750-2500 rpm

Design Overview

The Safari Smart might be the entry-level variant, but it retains the commanding presence the Safari is known for.

• Exterior: It carries forward the strong, muscular lines and upright stance. You'll notice the distinct split headlamp design, sleek LED Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs), and a confident grille. While the Smart variant might come with simpler wheel covers, the overall silhouette remains undeniably Safari – powerful and sophisticated.
• Interior: Step inside, and the Safari Smart welcomes you with a spacious and well-laid-out cabin. Tata Motors focuses on practicality and comfort. The versatile three-row seating allows you to configure space for passengers or cargo. The fit and finish are good, and the ergonomic layout makes it a comfortable place for both short commutes and long journeys.

Key Features

The Tata Safari Smart focuses on essential features, offering value without skimping on core functionalities.

• Infotainment System: 7-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Comfort: Manual air conditioning, all-power windows.
• Lighting: LED DRLs, projector headlights.
• Convenience: Power steering, central locking, rear parking sensors.
• Safety: Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
• Note: Premium features like a sunroof, 360-degree camera, wireless charging, or ADAS are typically reserved for higher variants.

What is the Ground Clearance of Tata Safari Smart?

The Tata Safari Smart offers a robust ground clearance of 200 mm. This ample clearance is perfect for tackling varied Indian road conditions, from speed breakers to rough patches, ensuring a confident drive.

What is the Boot Space of Tata Safari Smart?

The Safari Smart provides impressive versatility with its boot space:

• With all three rows up: Approximately 88 liters (minimal luggage).
• With the third row folded: A generous 420 liters.

What are the Dimensions of Tata Safari Smart?

The imposing dimensions of the Tata Safari Smart contribute to its road presence and spacious cabin:

• Length: 4668 mm
• Width: 1916 mm
• Height: 1786 mm
• Wheelbase: 2741 mm

Powertrain Options

For the Tata Safari Smart variant, the powertrain option is straightforward:

• Engine: 2.0-liter Kryotec Turbocharged Diesel.
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual Transmission only.

Safety Features

Tata Motors emphasizes safety. The Safari Smart comes equipped with a solid suite of safety features as standard:

• Dual Front Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control, Hill Hold Control, Roll Over Mitigation, Corner Stability Control
• Rear Parking Sensors
• All-wheel Disc Brakes
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is paramount for Indian buyers, and the Tata Safari has proven its mettle with top safety ratings.

Rating Type	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Bharat NCAP (October 2023)	5 Stars	5 Stars
Global NCAP (Older tests on same platform)	5 Stars	5 Stars

This 5-star rating for both adult and child occupants from Bharat NCAP makes the Tata Safari one of the safest SUVs you can buy in India.

Rivals of Tata Safari Smart

In the competitive Indian SUV market, the Tata Safari Smart goes head-to-head with several strong contenders. Its primary rivals, especially considering its price point and feature set, include:

• MG Hector Plus (base variants)
• Hyundai Alcazar (entry-level variants)
• Mahindra XUV700 (MX/AX3 variants)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the Tata Safari Smart to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Unmatched Safety: 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for peace of mind.
• Strong Road Presence: Stands out on the road.
• Spacious Cabin: True 7-seater, ample room for passengers.
• Powerful Diesel Engine: Strong performance, great for highways.
• Affordable Entry: Makes the iconic Safari accessible.
• Robust Build Quality: Feels solid and durable.
• All-Wheel Disc Brakes: Enhanced braking performance.

Cons:

• Limited Features: Misses premium features like sunroof, wireless charging, auto AC, 360-degree camera.
• Manual Transmission Only: May not suit all driving preferences, especially in city traffic.
• Diesel Only: No petrol engine option.
• Third-Row Space: Can be a bit cramped for adults on very long journeys.
• Steering Feel: Some drivers might find it slightly heavy at low speeds.

Conclusion

The Tata Safari Smart is a compelling proposition for those who aspire to own a large, capable, and incredibly safe SUV without stretching their budget too thin. It balances the core attributes of the Safari – its commanding presence, powerful diesel engine, and cavernous space – with a value-oriented price tag. If you prioritize safety, space, a strong diesel engine, and that unmistakable SUV stance over a long list of fancy features, the Safari Smart could be your ideal family car. It's a testament to Tata Motors' commitment to making premium experiences more accessible.

We highly recommend taking the Tata Safari Smart for a test drive to experience its capabilities firsthand. Happy driving!