Creating a storm in SUV market.

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.

Look has changed

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.