Tata Motors launches Safari Storme.
Tata Motors, one of the early players in the Sports
Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment, had launched Tata Safari in 1997. Though the car
always enjoyed a loyal fan following, the company recently decided to
completely refresh Safari with a new version named Safari Storme – they call it
‘The Real SUV’. Of course, with new players entering the fray with upgraded
technology, it was high time the Safari was given a new boost.
The most important change in Safari Storme is under
the bonnet. Its 2.2 L VariCOR diesel engine,
turbocharged with VTT (Variable Turbine Technology), delivers 140 PS Power and 320 NM Torque, provides easy driveability,
swifter response and lower NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness). The vehicle
also features ESOF (electronic shift-on-fly) technology, enabling engagement of
the 4x4 (4-wheel drive) or 4X2 mode, on the move. Despite
greater power, Storme is fairly fuel efficient at 14kmpl
in the 4x2 variant and 13.2kmpl in the 4x4 variant. The vehicle can deliver a performance
of 0 – 100 km/hr in under 15 sec.
Raw power
Apart from excellent off-roading
capabilities, Safari Storme delivers more power and torque among its peers.
Mahindra Scorpio, for example, delivers maximum power output of 120bhp at
4000rpm and produces a maximum torque of 290Nm between 1800 –
2800rpm with its 2.2-litre mHawk CRDe engine. The new entrant,
Renault Duster with its 110PS diesel version delivers a power output of 110PS
at 3900rpm and produces a maximum torque of 248Nm at 2250rpm. Even the Mahindra
XUV500 with 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine delivers a power almost equal to
Storme with a figure of 140bhp at 3750rpm.
The Safari Storme’s ladder frame chassis is constructed
with advanced hydroformed members, for high load capabilities and
robustness. It also enhances rigidity while reducing weight. The vehicle
also has a double wishbone suspension set-up which provides
excellent ride comfort even on bad roads.
In terms of look Strorme is not greatly different from its
earlier versions, Tatas have done a good job in making the look fresher. It brandishes
a new front look grill, side cladding, new projector headlamps and an all new
rear look. The bonnet now boasts of a ‘power bulge,’ which gives it a sportier
look. Aerodynamically designed spoilers, new pull-type door handles and
ergonomically designed side foot-steps, ensure easy entry and exit. The spare wheel
has now gone under the floor making the back look sleeker.
The Safari Storme has a wide stance with a
wheelbase of 2650mm, length of 4655mm, width of 1965mm and height of 1922mm. The
car has a strong road grip as tyres are of size 235/70 R16. The best for the
Indian roads and also for off-roading is Storme’s exceptional ground clearance of
200mm. You can smoothly glide over the killer humps, Indian roads are known
for. Storme also boasts of best-in-class turning circle radius
of 5.4 metres, making driving and maneuvering in tight confines easy. The new
rack & pinion steering system offers perfect feel and accuracy, for a
confident driving experience, especially at high speeds. Reverse parking system
with audible and graphical representation on the antiglare inside rear-view mirror,
electrically operated power fold ORVM (Outside Rear-View Mirror) with turn
signals, enhance the driving experience.
Rich Interior
Inside,
the Storme is opulent with luxurious, airy and beige interiors. There is ample
leg space and headroom to accommodate the family, and also plenty of luggage space
when the rear seats are folded up. The reclining front bucket seats with fore/aft adjustment
position and lumbar support ensure fatigue free long drives. The vehicle is
equipped with a dual-AC with a separate integrated roof mounted blower for rear
passengers.
The Storme flaunts
hand stitched leather steering, for a real feel of luxury and an ergonomically
shaped gear knob with chrome highlights, wooden accents on the dashboard and
door trims, a new instrument cluster, chrome-lined speaker grills and inside
door handles, all go a long way in enhancing the interior look.
The safety aspect
Storme is a safer vehicle on the road than before. The rigid
ladder frame with hydro-formed construction provides structural strength to the
vehicle. Crumple zones, side intrusion beams on all four doors, dual SRS
airbags and the collapsible steering column keep passengers safe from all
sides.
The vehicle has vacuum assisted independent hydraulic,
ventilated disc brakes on all four- wheels and a 4 channel ABS (anti-lock
braking system) with EBD, which helps keep the vehicle under control, during
emergency braking conditions. In addition, there are features like the inertia
switch and an auto engine immobilizer. In an exigency, the inertia switch
automatically cuts off the fuel supply to the engine, and unlocks all the doors
and also switches on the hazard warning light, to warn other road users.
Storme is very competitively priced and starts at Rs.9.95 lakhs (ex-showroom, Bangalore). The
range is available in four variants, LX, EX, VX (4x2 and 4x4), in seven colours.
The writer is a business journalist and a freelance writer writing test drive reports on cars / SUVs for the last 10 years. Can be contacted on dilipmaitra@gmail.com. (Any unauthorised copy and reproduction of images are prohibited. Please write for permission.)
All pictures by the writer.
The writer is a business journalist and a freelance writer writing test drive reports on cars / SUVs for the last 10 years. Can be contacted on dilipmaitra@gmail.com. (Any unauthorised copy and reproduction of images are prohibited. Please write for permission.)
All pictures by the writer.
