The very Indian automobile manufacturer Tata Motors is essentially the car maker that introduced mass motoring in the country in just a few years. It has shown its presence in all the segments of the car industry. Tata Safari is an iconic utility vehicle which was a top seller for many years in a row. It has now reached its third generation and is sold currently as the Safari Storme which was launched at the Auto Expo in the year 2012. Safari Storme looks and feels like the old Safari, but it comes loaded with up-to-date mechanics and features.

The main part of any vehicle is its engine, so let us examine the engine specifications first. Tata Safari Storme is equipped with the all-new 2.2-litre, 16 valves DOHC CRDi diesel Engine named VARICOR with Variable Turbine Technology (VTT) and new G76 MarkII 5-speed Gearbox. The engine produces maximum power of 140 bhp at 4000 rpm and torque figures are 320 nm at 1700-2700 rpm. There is a choice of two drive trims being offered 4X2 (LX, EX, VX) and 4X4 (VX). The mileage offered is 17 kmpl on highways and 14 kmpl on city roads on an average.

Safari Storme has the same body casing and side profile as first seen on the Safari in the late 90’s. The big chrome strip bearing the company logo, twin projector headlights, body coloured bumper and neatly tucked in fog lamps make the front end look extremely stylish. Chrome electric ORVMs, solid mirrors, side cladding and pull type door handles seems to be durable. The spare wheel is concealed away underneath the back seats and the rear door looks cleaner now.

The bright and airy interiors are spacious and come with a beige finish. The centre console and dash board are impressive. Other switches, knobs and plastics used are of good quality. The leather finished seats offer good support at the right places and provides ample legroom. There is plenty of storage space in the centre area, below the handbrake, on the doors and between the seats. The vehicle is rich in comfort and safety features as well.

Nevertheless Tata Safari Storme cannot be said to be an exceptional success in the car market. One reason for its inadequate sales can be attributed to the high competition in the SUV market in the recent times. Another reason seems to be its high price. Tata Safari Storme falls in the price range of Rs 9.8-13.57 lakhs. There are many SUVs which are currently available at a much cheaper price. Tata might bring a face-lifted model of the Safari Storme soon with more features at a lesser price.

For more information on new cars & bikes log on to Cars expert & Bikeportal.in