Harrier EV design cues to inspire Tata Safari facelift

A heavily camouflaged test mule of the Tata Safari, which seems to preview a mid-lifecycle facelift of the flagship SUV, has been spied on Indian roads. Interestingly, the spied Safari facelift has similar design cues as the Harrier EV concept that was previewed at Auto Expo 2023.

Tata will soon also be rolling out ADAS features and an improved infotainment system on the Safari, bookings for which are already underway.

Tata Safari facelift: updated exterior design
The spy shots reveal a completely new front fascia for the Safari facelift. It seems to continue with a split headlamp design, but the main headlamp cluster on the revised bumper is now positioned vertically and more towards the edges. The grille also sports a new design with vertical slats and there will likely be a full-width LED light bar headlining the grille and headlamp assembly – design cues that have already been previewed by the Harrier EV concept.

There aren’t major changes in profile, however, the Safari facelift can be seen riding on new, blacked-out, twin five-spoke alloy wheels. At the rear, the SUV will likely get slimmer, connected LED tail lamps and a slightly tweaked rear bumper. These design updates will eventually also make it to the ICE-powered Harrier SUV.

Tata Safari facelift: interior and features
The design updates on the Safari may still be a while away, but Tata will roll out a major interior update much sooner. This includes a larger and much improved 10.25-inch infotainment screen – replacing the current 8.8-inch unit – that now supports wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay connectivity and voice commands in six languages. The Safari will also get a new 7.0-inch instrument cluster.

The bigger addition will be ADAS features that’ll include forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, high beam assist, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, lane change alert and more, along with a 360-degree camera.

Tata Safari facelift: powertrain options
The Safari facelift will continue to be powered by its 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine that produces 170hp and 350Nm of torque, mated to either 6-speed manual or automatic gearboxes. Tata’s new 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine is also expected to be offered on the Safari facelift. This engine, which was also previewed at Auto Expo 2023, produces 170hp and 280Nm of torque.

Tata Safari facelift: expected launch and rivals
Considering that the changes on the Safari facelift are mostly concentrated on the soft plastic parts, it shouldn’t be too far away from launch. The Tata Safari facelift could see a market debut by the festive season this year or by early 2024. Upon launch, it will continue its rivalry with the likes of the 7-seat Mahindra XUV700, the Hyundai Alcazar and the refreshed MG Hector Plus. 

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