The upgraded version of the erstwhile Safari, Tata Safari Storme, has been launched in Mumbai on 11 December. The new Safari Storme was first showcased at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo, where Tata Motors announced the launch of this vehicle during the same year. It combines the value of supreme comfort, along with better power and off-roading abilities.
Speaking highly of the new Storme, Karl Slym, Managing Director (MD) of Tata Motors said “In the Tata Safari Storme, we once again demonstrate Tata Motors' commitment to customer centricity. We were the first to introduce SUV's in India. We now leverage our experience and customer understanding, creating an ideal SUV for today's motorists, who desire in their vehicle a perfect combination of versatility and luxury."
The engine fitted in the new Storme provides a power output of 140 bhp, with 320 Nm of torque. It is a 2.2 litre VariCOR engine turbo charged with VTT (Variable Turbine Technology), is capable of achieving 0-100 kmph in less than 15 seconds. Despite the enhanced performance, this SUV delivers a fuel efficiency of 14 kmpl in the 4x2 variant and 13.2 kmpl in the 4x4 variant. Refinement has been increased with lower NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels in the Storme, as compared to the previous version. A new technology, known as ESOF (Electronic Shift-on-Fly) enables the vehicle to effortlessly shift between 4x4 and 4x2 modes, while on the move.
A double wishbone set up in the vehicle enhances the riding comfort for passengers. The ladder frame chassis has been made with superior hydroforming technology, which increase load capabilities and rigidity, but keep the overall weight low at the same time. To easily glide over bumps on the road or off it, the Storme has been provided with a generous ground clearance of 200 mm, with 26 degree grade-ability.
Praising its off-road abilities, Mr. Neeraj Garg, Vice President, Commercial – Passenger Car Business Unit, Tata Motors, said, “The Safari Storme is indeed a Go-anywhere vehicle. We have designed, powered and embellished it keeping in mind that our customers will be proud to be seen in the Safari Storme anywhere and on any occasion.”
Turning radius for a vehicle of this side is quite good, at 5.4 metres. A new rack and pinion system for steering inspires greater confidence, while driving the Storme at high speeds. Indicator signals are fitted into the electrically operated ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors), and a reverse parking system providing graphical representation and audio commands on the IRVM (Internal Rear View Mirror) improve the overall driving experience.
Many changes have been made to the overall look of the original Safari. The Storme gets an all-new front grill, new projector lamps, side cladding and a new rear look, without the spare wheel on the door. This spare tyre has now been fitted underneath the vehicle, to make the rear door lighter. The bonnet has been given a 'power bulge', which gives the vehicle a sportier look than before. Chrome tipped exhausts and newly designed roof rails also add to the mean and muscular look of this SUV. In addition, spoilers, new pull-type door handles and ergonomically designed side footsteps also add to the character of the Storme.
President of Passenger Car Business Unit, Tata Motors, Ranjit Yadav, said, “The Tata Safari Storme is going to be the preferred choice among all age groups. The customer today is looking for style, technology and performance. The Safari Storme is the best combination of these attributes. It is the Real SUV.”
Beige interiors give the Storme a look of elegance and class. Reclining front-bucket seats with fore/aft adjustment position and lumbar support give front passengers comfort for long distance drives. A tilt/adjust steering column has been provided for the driver to adjust the steering column as per his height. 12V charging points are available next to all three rows of seats. Comfort of the rear passengers is also assured, with a dual-AC, having separate rear mounted blowers.
In Mold Graining (IMG) technology, with hand stitched leather steering gives a feeling of luxury in this SUV. A gear knob with chrome highlights, wooden accents on dashboard and door trims, a new instrument cluster, chrome lined speaker grills and inside door handles are some more of the noticeable changes made to the interior
Safety is of utmost importance in any vehicle. Tata Motors has paid a lot of attention to safety and security, by providing 4-channel ABS (Anti Lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), an inertia switch and an auto engine immobilizer. ABS with EBD helps to prevent the vehicle from skidding, and the inertia switch cuts off fuel supply, unlocks the doors and switches on hazard warning lights, for warning other road users. PES headlamps help in providing better illumination without glare.
Prices of this popular SUV start at Rs. 9.95 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi). Three variants in 4x2 (LX, EX and VX) and one variant (VX) in 4x4 configuration are available, as per seven different colours- Urban Bronze, Sardinia Red, Pearl White, Pearl Champagne, Astern Black, Arctic White and Arctic Silver. The Storme comes with a warranty of 3 years or 100,000 km, whichever is earlier. This period can be extended up to 4 years or 150,000 km. The Safari Storme can be purchased across 282 Tata Motors' dealerships and 33 exclusive UV dealerships.
