For sheer road presence and the looks, you cannot get anything better for the eight-ten lakh odd rupees you spend, writes RANOJOY MUKERJI

Tata Engineering was the first company to introduce a Sports-utility vehicle (SUV) in India. The Safari, which debuted in 1998, has a certain class, a premium quality which competitors found difficult to match. Niggling problems however, plagued the product. In the last couple of years, the company sat down to iron out all the gremlins in the system. The result? A brand new Tata Safari.

The new Tata Safari has been introduced with many modifications. Externally there are no changes except for a side variation in the body side mouldings, internally a whole lot of changes have gone in to make the Safari a better car. To start with, the second air-conditioning unit has been relocated to the top centre to give better air-flow to rear seat passengers. The Safari’s air-conditioning was always its strong point and this new arrangement enhances the cooling power. Also added is a state-of-art Blaupunkt music system, complete with tweeters, mid-ranges and a rear door mounted woofer, for sonic pleasure.

There are also other changes like new trim levels inside and addition of warning lamps in the instrument cluster for sheer driving pleasure. The tried and tested 2.0 litre inter-cooled turbodiesel that does duty in the Safari is a smooth and reasonably refined unit. While it may not really make the Safari win a 0-100kph battle, yet it is a competent engine, which whisks you to three digit speeds without much drama. Many have criticised the Safari as having an underpowered engine, but personally while driving through city roads. I never felt a lack of power. The beautifully assisted power steering helps manouever ability on crowded city roads while the improved noise, vibration and harshness levels (NVH)keep you unruffled! Fuel economy was not bad for a car which weighs over two tons. While most diesel cars in the city give around 10kpl, you can managed a consistent 11kpl, with the air-conditioner on and off.

Road presence is never an issue with the Safari. I guess that is part of the appeal when you drive a SUV.

The Safari is available in LX and EX versions, with electronic 4x4 systems available on both. For sheer road presence and the looks, you cannot get anything better for the 8-10 lakh odd rupees you spend, depending upon version. The Safari is indeed the vehicle to have if you want a lifestyle statement.