We all know that Tata Motors is gearing up to launch the 2021 Safari (Gravitas), which is essentially a three-row version of the Harrier mid-size SUV. It will be showcased on the upcoming republic day i.e. on 26th January 2021. But ahead of its official unveil, the SUV has been spied inside Tata's plant, revealing various details about the production version.
As seen in the images, the rear-end of Safari looks similar to the Harrier, but there are some minor cosmetic changes. Its tail lamp design has been revised slightly, connected by a chrome strip. The boot lid looks larger and comparatively flatter than the Harrier, embossing SAFARI badging on the lower side.
The rear windscreen also seems bigger and less tilted. Besides this, Tata has also increased the roof height to promote the headroom in the third row. The rear bumper design, on the other hand, has also been slightly altered, featuring two fake exhaust tips and a faux skid plate.
Although the interior of the car is not fully visible, the above image confirms that the new Safari will get a panoramic sunroof, just like the Harrier. However, this scenic feature was missing in its pre-production model (Gravitas) showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo.
On the side, the biggest difference comes in the form of a new C-Pillar, a larger quarter glass panel, roof rails, and a stepped roof, while the front profile features a new tri-arrow chrome grille. The headlamp unit also gets chromium decorative garnishing, which adds to the premium quotient of the vehicle. The rest of the design elements remain the same as the Harrier.
2021 Tata Safari – What else we know so far?
The Safari will be the second product from Tata's line-up to be based on the OMEGA ARC platform (obviously, the Harrier is first). For the people not in know, the OMEGA ARC stands for the 'optimal modular efficient global advanced architecture', which is derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform. In terms of dimensions, the Safari will be about 80mm taller and 63mm longer than the Harrier, however, the wheelbase & width of the car are expected to remain unchanged.
On the inside, the biggest difference is the seating layout. The Safari is likely to come in both 6 and 7-seater configurations. The 6-seater version will feature two captain seats in the second row, whereas the 7-seater model will get a bench seat. It could also sport a new black-beige dual-tone cabin theme, instead of Harrier's darker cabin theme (black-brown & all-black).
The 2021 Safari will be Tata’s new flagship offering, so expect it to be a feature-packed SUV. Compared to the 5-seater Harrier, it is likely to get a host of new features, including connected car technology, front parking sensors, electronic parking brake, powered tailgate, air purifier, and wireless charging.
Powertrain
The new Tata Safari is expected to be powered by Harrier's 2.0-liter turbocharged Kryotec diesel engine (170PS/350Nm). The gearbox option is also likely to be similar to the Harrier: 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic unit. Tata could also introduce a new 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine and 4WD drivetrain in the later stage.
Expected Price
Except the all-new Tata Safari to be priced at a premium of around Rs 1 lakh over the Harrier, which retails from Rs 13.84 to 20.30 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Bookings of the SUV have already been commenced unofficially at selected dealerships for a token amount of Rs 51,000.
Rivals
In the Indian market, the Safari will be positioned against the likes of MG Hector Plus, Mahindra XUV500, and the upcoming 7-seater Hyundai Creta.
