The Safari comes with two engine options, and both generate the same peak power figure of 170 PS, which is an unusual choice from Tata, but it means buyers aren't trading performance for their preferred fuel type.

The petrol is a 1.5-litre Hyperion Turbo GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection, where fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinder for better combustion efficiency) unit producing 170 PS at 5000 rpm and 280 Nm of torque between 1750 and 3500 rpm.

The diesel is a 2.0-litre Kryotec turbocharged unit with the same 170 PS but significantly more pulling power, 350 Nm at 1750–2500 rpm, which makes it the more capable choice for highway cruising and loaded driving. 

The diesel also features an Electronically Controlled Variable Geometry Turbocharger (eVGT), which helps it respond more efficiently across different driving conditions. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox.

For handling, the Safari uses an independent McPherson strut setup up front with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, while the rear uses a semi-independent twist blade with a Panhard rod and coil spring.

Three drive modes, Eco, City, and Sport, along with Terrain Response Modes (Normal, Rough, and Wet) on Adventure X+ and above variants round out the driving experience.

The 1.5-litre Hyperion Turbo GDI uses Gasoline Direct Injection technology alongside a lightweight, low-friction valve train architecture and an Advanced Exhaust Gas Recirculation system, all aimed at keeping consumption in check despite the 170 PS output.

Both engines get Eco, City, and Sport drive modes. Using Eco mode in city traffic will realistically make a noticeable difference to consumption. The iRA 2.0 platform also offers drive pattern analytics and a driver score, which can help fuel-conscious owners track and improve their driving habits over time.

In the top-spec Safari variants, the cabin gets a 36.9 cm Samsung Neo QLED cinematic infotainment screen by Harman, powered by Dolby Atmos and backed by a 10-speaker JBL system with a central speaker and subwoofer, a setup that genuinely stands out in this price range. 

Lower trims get a 31.24 cm or 26.03 cm Harman touchscreen depending on the variant.

Passenger comfort is considered with ventilated seats being available for both the first and second rows (the latter in 6-seater variants only), second-row seats recline and split 60:40, and the third row gets dedicated AC vents. 

The panoramic sunroof, dual-zone fully automatic climate control, air purifier, multicoloured ambient mood lighting, and wireless charger with a 65W USB Type-C port in top trims all add up to a cabin that's genuinely well-equipped for long family trips.

Boot space ranges from 420 litres with the third row folded to 1,550 litres with both rear rows folded.

The Safari's exterior it wide at 1,922 mm and tall at 1,795 mm, it fills the road with authority. 

The front is anchored by a parametric grille with a central Tata badge, flanked by bi-LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs and a centre position lamp.

A sequential turn indicator animation and a Welcome/Goodbye lamp sequence add a premium touch that buyers in this segment appreciate.

On the sides, the iconic roof rails and the Safari door mascot are signature identifiers, while the R19 dual-tone spider alloy wheels on top trims are a segment-first design detail.

The rear is defined by a full-width LED DRL strip connecting the tail lamps, a design cue that's now become increasingly common in premium SUVs, but the Safari carries it cleanly.

The gesture-controlled powered tailgate on higher variants adds a genuine convenience element. A shark fin antenna and optional #DARK and Stealth styling packages round out the exterior choices for buyers who want a more distinct look.

The Safari has high safety credentials, among the strongest in its segment.

The diesel variant holds a 5-star Global NCAP rating under the Safer Cars for India 2023 programme, and it was the first SUV to receive a 5-star rating from Bharat NCAP.
Airbags are available on higher trims, covering the driver, co-driver, side, curtain, and driver knee positions, while the base Smart variant starts with 6 airbags as standard.

All variants get all-disc brakes, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program, roll-over mitigation, and 3-point seatbelts with reminders across all three rows. Higher trims add an Advanced ESP with 17 functionalities, Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control, an Electronic Park Brake with Auto Hold, ISOFIX child seat anchors, a 360-degree surround view system, front and rear parking sensors, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

ADAS Level 2+ is available on top trims with up to 22 functionalities and covers everything from Autonomous Emergency Braking for pedestrians and cyclists, to Lane Centering, Rear Collision Warning, and Blind Spot Detection.

The Safari's closest rivals in the Indian market are the Kia Carens and the Mahindra XUV700.

Against the Kia Carens, the Tata Safari targets buyers who want a larger SUV with stronger diesel performance and more luggage capacity.

The Safari’s 2.0-litre turbo-diesel produces about 170PS and 350Nm, compared to the Carens diesel’s 115PS and 250Nm. The Safari also offers significantly more boot space, about 447 litres versus the Carens’ 216 litres with all three rows in use.

The XUV700 is arguably its most direct fight as it matches the Safari on ADAS capability, offers a more powerful diesel in higher trims, and comes in slightly more accessible pricing.

Where the Safari holds its ground firmly is in safety certification, its 5-star ratings from both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP give it a tangible, tested edge over most of its competition. The Accomplished Ultra petrol's 36.9 cm Neo QLED infotainment and Dolby Atmos audio are also difficult to match at this price point in the segment.