Tata Safari
India's first indigenous premium SUV, built for rugged utility.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $1k–$4k
About the Tata Safari
Launched in 1998, the Tata Safari was India's first home-grown premium SUV, designed to offer a blend of off-road capability and passenger comfort. It features a robust ladder-frame chassis and a 2.0-litre Peugeot-derived turbodiesel engine, though its heavy kerb weight of over two tonnes results in leisurely performance. The interior is noted for its 'theatre seating' and generous space, including two side-facing jump seats in the rear. While it gained a cult following in India for its commanding road presence, it struggled in export markets like the UK due to inconsistent build quality and unrefined dynamics.
Tata Safari specs
The Tata Safari produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 191 Nm (141 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Tata |
|---|---|
| Model | Safari |
| Trim | 2.0 TD |
| Years | 1998–2005 |
| Type | Off-road |
| Body style | SUV |
| Country | India |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel I4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,948 cc (1.9 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 4,300 rpm |
| Torque | 191 Nm (141 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,040 kg (4,497 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 44 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Tata Safari worth?
A typical Tata Safari is estimated to be worth $1,000 – $3,500 (about £746 – £2,600).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Tata Safari rarity in CarSpot
The Tata Safari is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Tata Safari fun facts
- The 2.0-litre diesel engine was a Peugeot XD88 unit built under licence by Tata in India.
- In 2003, Tata released a limited edition Safari that featured a built-in Sony PlayStation 2 and a refrigerator.
- The Safari was a staple of Indian government convoys for decades, often used by high-ranking politicians.
