The Tata Safari Storme is due for an update. And that update, as we have reported at ZigWheels earlier isn't a plain head and tail lamp change or some new stickering on the sides. Sure, the engine, the gearbox and even most of the mechanicals will continue unchanged, but the facelifted Storme will see a serious revision to its interior, suspension setup and even brakes. After all, with the new Mahindra Scorpio so well equipped and the Duster AWD being more efficient, dynamically superior and still easier to drive, the Safari Storme needs a stronger case for itself to be considered.
So, here's a quick rundown on what the current Safari Storme has going for and against it; a list we have drawn up after using it extensively over the last six months.
First the negatives...
Ergonomics andndash; The seating ergonomics, the column mounted audio controls and the shallow cup holders are aspects that need correction on the Safari Storme. And though we do expect changes in the latter two, the seating ergonomics on the new Storme will continue unchanged.
Fuel efficiency andndash; The Storme is a big, heavy SUV. And unless Tata Motors completely re-thinks the body on ladder frame concept, this isn't expected to change for the better. Yes, the ladder frame adds to toughness but the drawback is relatively poor fuel economy. This isn't expected to change on the new Storme and expect the efficiency figure to be in the region of 9-11kmpl in the real world.
Dynamics andndash; Though the Storme both handles and brakes way better than the previous generation Safari, it's still no match for the likes of the Duster. The new Storme will see further improvements, which should make the new SUV a little less cumbersome.
Now the positivesandhellip;
Space andndash; There's no denying when it comes to space - head and shoulder room in particular, the Safari Storme really has no equal. This will continue on the new SUV as well. It can house a lot of luggage as well which makes the Safari Storme a very practical and likeable highway car.
Comfort andndash; Besides the space, the Safari Storme also has one of the best seats among SUVs in its class. It has a quiet cabin and the ride for a body on ladder type SUV is commendable. It has great visibility too and the air conditioning system with the rear vents works superbly.
Go anywhere ability- With its ground clearance and its able 4x4 system, the Storme can literally go anywhere. And the only thing that stops it from managing to take some serious off-road terrain, is its road biased tyres. Because this Tata SUV will continue to be used on the road more than off it, the road biased tyres will continue on the new version as well.
Finally then, as the Safari Storme stands today, it is a great option for those looking at a large SUV with good highway abilities. It isn't the best for city use, of course, which will change somewhat with the new version. So, our recommendation then is to wait for the new version which is only a couple of months away.
Logbook
Date Acquired: August 2014
Total km till date: 22,350km
Km this month: 2,185km
Fuel consumed: 195 litres
Efficiency: 11.2kmpl (As tested)
Cheers: Space, comfort, ride, seats
Sneers: Fuel efficiency, ergonomics, dynamics
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