Tata Safari Storme VX 4WD

Safari Storme VX 4WD Review

For increasing the number of sales in the Indian car market, Tata Motors has launched the facelifted version of its stylish sports utility vehicle, Safari Storme. This Tata Safari Storme VX 4WD variant comes with the same overall body structure along with a re-designed radiator grille and bumper. Now it also gets 'Storme' lettering on the hood in black color that creates a classier effect. The company has also made some changes to its internal cabin like now it comes with Java black color scheme, which is highlighted by warm silver accents given on door handles and dashboard, ultrasonic parking sensors and CONNECTNEXT infotainment system by Harman. Besides this, the manufacturer has also placed the signature three spoke steering wheel that houses multi-functional switches on it for audio and call operation. However, the major update has been given to its engine that improves its overall power output and efficiency. The company has tuned its engine and now it can produce 10bhp extra power than its previous version. This variant is powered by the same 2.2-litre VARICOR diesel motor that is now capable of producing a peak power of 148bhp. It also gets a new 260mm diameter self adjusting clutch that provides seamless gear shifting and offers a smoother drive. It is coupled with a five speed manual transmission gear box. At the same time, its 4x4 version's ESOF (electric shift-on-fly) function makes it simpler for dealing with terrains and rugged roads. This vehicle will compete against the likes of Mahindra XUV500, Nissan Terrano, Renault Duster and others in this segment.

Exteriors

The designers of the company have left no stone unturned and have tried their best to make this latest SUV look urbane and outstanding. This utility vehicle has undergone quite a few cosmetic changes to its exteriors. To begin with the frontage, it gets a newly designed radiator grille with a lot of chrome treatment. It is flanked by a swept back designed headlight cluster, which is powered by high intensity lamps and side turn indicators. The body colored bumper houses a large air intake section for cooling the engine and it is flanked by a pair of bright fog lamps. The windscreen is quite large and is equipped with a couple of proficient intermittent wipers. Coming to its side profile, it is sleekly designed with body colored pull type door handles and ORVMs. These external wing mirrors are electrically adjustable and integrated with side turn indicator. The neatly carved out wheel arches have been fitted with a spanking set of 16-inch alloy wheels, which are covered with 235/70 R16 sized tubeless radial tyres. It also has side footsteps, which make it easier for passenger to come in and exit. The rear end is designed with trapezoidal tail pipes, a sporty rear spoiler and a set of roof rails. The overall dimensions of this vehicle remain the same and it is designed with the large wheelbase of 2650mm and a decent ground clearance of 200mm, which makes it capable for off-roading. The total length, width and height are 4655mm, 1965mm (with side foot steps) and 1922mm respectively.

Interiors

The manufacturer has blessed its interiors with a java black color scheme, which is emphasized by chrome and wood inserts. In terms of seating, it is incorporated with well cushioned seats, which are further covered with fabric upholstery. Its front row has two individual seats, whereas its second and third row has bench seats that can easily accommodate seven passengers. The smooth dashboard is equipped with quite a few features like a large glove box, chrome accentuated AC vents, an advanced instrument panel and a three spoke steering wheel with company insignia in the center. The illuminated instrument cluster comes with adjustable light intensity function. It is equipped with a number of notifications, which are a low fuel warning light, digital tripmeter, outside temperature display, door ajar warning, driver seat belt reminder notification and several features as well. It has a couple of 12V power socket in front and middle row for charging mobiles. The tilt adjustable steering wheel makes handling quite comfortable even in heavy traffic conditions. This variant has also front roof lamp that can be used as a spot reading lamp and it comes with advanced delay function. In addition to these, it also has other aspects like cup and bottle holders in front console, front seat back pockets, sun glass holder, analog clock on center console, front seats with lumbar support, an ashtray, cigarette lighter in front console and so on.

Engine and Performance

This variant is equipped with a 2.2 litre VARICOR diesel engine, which comes with a displacement capacity of 2179cc. This engine has been fine tuned to generate lesser NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) and better fuel efficiency. It is integrated with four cylinders and sixteen valves using dual overhead camshaft based valve configuration. It also has variable turbine technology based turbocharger, which allows the motor to produce 148bhp at 4000rpm in combination with a peak torque output of 320Nm in the range of 1700 to 2700rpm. This commanding diesel engine has been skillfully mated with a 5-Speed manual transmission gear box, which distributes the torque output to its four wheels. It enables the mill to cross the speed barrier of 100 Kmph in close to 14 seconds from a standstill.

Braking and Handling:

Its front axle is assembled with a double wish bone type of mechanism along with a coil spring over shock absorbers. While the rear axle gets a 5-link suspension with coil springs, which assists to keep this massive SUV well balanced and stable. On the other hand, its front and rear wheels are further fitted with a set of ventilated discs and conventional disc brakes. This braking mechanism is further augmented by ABS along with EBD. It also has a rack and pinion based hydraulic power steering system, which is quite responsive and supports a minimum turning radius of 10.8 meters.

Comfort Features:

The list of comfort features include an efficient air conditioning system along with roof mounted AC vents, power steering with mounted controls, all four power windows with driver side express down functions, power adjustable external rear view mirrors, a rear demister, remote central locking and many more such impressive features. It also has an advanced music system with ConnectNext screen by Harman. It supports CD/MP3 player, USB interface, Aux-in port and four speakers.

Safety Features

Being the top end variant, it is blessed with all vital protective aspects, which keeps the occupants as well as vehicle safe. The long list of safety features include ABS with EBD, dual airbags, ultrasonic reverse guidance system, side impact bars, crumple zones, engine immobilizer, clear lens fog lamps, central locking system and many more.

Pros:

1. Impressive exteriors with a few modified features.
2. Spacious cabin with class leading features.

Cons:

1. Engine noise and vibration should be decreased.
2. A few more features can be added.