2023 Tata Safari Facelift Revealed: Old vs New Compared

Tata Motors has given this iteration of the Safari Its first midlife design update. It comes with major updates on the outside, a revised interior and an updated feature set. And for those interested in reserving one, you’ll be happy to know that pre-launch bookings are open for the Safari facelift. 

In this report, we’ll be looking at what all has been changed in the facelifted Safari when compared to the outgoing model:

EXTERIOR DESIGN 

There is no denying that the Safari had a good looking fascia, but with the new one Tata has dialled its aggressiveness up a notch. The good thing is also that, unlike the facelifted model, whose fascia looks similar to the Harrier, this time, there are differentiating factors. 

At the front, it now comes with vertically oriented LED headlamps and an updated grille with different inserts. The front end also comes with a full-width LED light bar, which gets a welcome function as well, a touch that isn’t available in the pre-facelift car.

At the sides, Tata has not made any sheet metal changes to the Safari. However, it now gets new alloys that are a size larger, at 19 inches. Keen eyed viewers will also notice the ‘Safari’ badging on the front doors.

The rear now gets a reprofiled bumper along with updated connected LED tail lamps with a welcome and goodbye function that dials up the premiumness factor.

Overall, the exterior changes have given the car a fresh outlook and improved the aesthetics of the Safari. 

INTERIOR DESIGN 

In terms of design, we can notice that the new Safari’s dashboard layout is similar to the outgoing model, but with sharper lines and creases. Your eyes will be drawn to the new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is a size up from the 10.25-inch unit. 

Towards the bottom part of the console is a new touch-based AC control panel. The automatic variants, meanwhile, come with a new rotary dial that has a built-in screen. 

Also, the driver now gets a new quad-spoke steering with illuminated ‘Tata’ logo and paddle shifters as well as a larger 10.25-inch digital driver’s display that has multiple views and customisation options. Previously, the Safari packed a 7-inch unit for the driver. 

Features Onboard

The new Safari gets a host of updated features such as the new 12.3-inch touchscreen system and 10.25-inch digital driver’s display. Tata is now also offering features like the powered rear tailgate with gesture-based opening, a knee airbag (total - 7), an updated 10-speaker JBL sound system, dual-zone climate control and rear sunshades. 

Other features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car tech, front and rear ventilated seats (latter for Safari 6-seater), a panoramic sunroof and keyless entry with push button start have been carried forward.

On the safety front, it continues to get electronic stability control, a 360-degree camera, electronic parking brake with auto hold and ADAS are the same as before. That said, the last one gets the added convenience of adaptive cruise control as well. 

Engine Options 

The Safari continues with Tata’s tried and tested 2.0-litre diesel engine. This 170PS engine is paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. However, in the facelifted model, the latter now gets paddle shifters for a more involving driving experience.

Expected Price And Rivals 

The new Safari is definitely a notch above the outgoing model and as such Tata is likely to increase its prices. With the older model priced from Rs 15.84 lakh (ex-showroom), expect a premium in the updated model. The Tata Safari rivals the likes of the MG Hector Plus, Hyundai Alcazar, and Mahindra XUV700 7-seater variants in the market.