In the competitive world of Indian SUVs, the Tata Safari stands as a legendary nameplate, synonymous with power, presence, and adventure. Recently, the internet has been buzzing with exciting headlines about a “newly launched 2025 Tata Safari,” promising an 8-seater configuration, an unbelievable mileage of 25 kmpl, and an affordable price tag. It sounds like the perfect family SUV, ticking every possible box.
But in an age of digital misinformation, it’s essential to ask: Is this for real? Can a large, powerful SUV deliver the fuel efficiency of a hatchback? Has Tata secretly added a new seating layout?
Let’s cut through the hype and get straight to the facts. This article will serve as your definitive reality check, debunking the myths and showcasing the real strengths that make the 2025 Tata Safari a formidable contender in the premium SUV segment.
Myth #1: The “25 kmpl Mileage” Fantasy
Let’s address the biggest claim first. The idea of a 2.2-tonne, three-row SUV delivering a mileage of 25 kmpl is, unfortunately, a complete fantasy with current technology.
The Reality: The Tata Safari is powered by the robust 2.0-litre Kryotec Turbocharged Diesel engine. This is a powerful and refined motor, but it’s built for performance and hauling capability, not record-breaking fuel efficiency. Here are the realistic mileage figures:
- ARAI-Certified Mileage: Approximately 16.3 kmpl for the manual transmission and 14.5 kmpl for the automatic transmission.
- Real-World Mileage: Most owners report a fuel efficiency of 12-14 kmpl in city conditions and 15-17 kmpl on the highway, depending on driving style.
While these numbers are respectable for an SUV of its size and power, they are nowhere near the claimed 25 kmpl. Achieving such a figure would require a sophisticated strong-hybrid system, which the Safari does not currently offer.
Myth #2: The “8-Seater” Configuration
Another widely circulated claim is the availability of an 8-seater version. This would indeed be a game-changer, but it’s not true.
The Reality: The Tata Safari offers two excellent and practical seating configurations:
- 7-Seater: This is the standard layout, featuring a comfortable bench seat in the middle row that can accommodate three passengers, making it ideal for larger families.
- 6-Seater: This premium layout replaces the middle-row bench with two luxurious individual Captain Seats. This configuration offers superior comfort and a more executive feel, perfect for those who prioritize passenger experience over sheer numbers. It also provides easy access to the third row.
An 8-seater configuration is not offered, and the Safari’s platform is designed to comfortably accommodate a maximum of seven occupants.
Fact #1: A Genuinely “Powerful Engine” and Capable Performance
While the mileage claim was false, the headline’s mention of a “powerful engine” is spot on. The heart of the Safari is its Fiat-sourced 2.0L Kryotec Diesel Engine, which produces:
- Power: 170 PS (@ 3750 rpm)
- Torque: 350 Nm (@ 1750-2500 rpm)
This engine is mated to either a smooth 6-speed manual gearbox or a sophisticated 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. This powertrain provides strong, linear acceleration and makes highway cruising an effortless affair. The ample torque ensures that overtaking is quick and confident, even with a full load of passengers and luggage. The Safari also comes with Multi-Drive Modes (Eco, City, Sport) and Terrain Response Modes (Normal, Rough, Wet), allowing the driver to tailor the vehicle’s response to different conditions.
What’s on the Horizon? For years, there has been talk of a petrol engine for the Safari. Tata has showcased its new, more powerful 1.5-litre TGDi (Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection) engine. While it is not yet available in the Safari as of August 2025, it is expected to be introduced in the future, offering buyers a powerful petrol alternative.
Fact #2: A “Fully-Featured” Cabin That Oozes Luxury and Tech
This is where the Tata Safari truly shines and justifies its premium positioning. The cabin is a masterclass in design, comfort, and technology. Top-end variants are loaded with features that can rival vehicles from a segment above.
Key Feature Highlights:
- State-of-the-Art Cockpit: A stunning, horizontally-oriented dashboard dominated by a 12.3-inch Harman touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster with crisp graphics and integrated navigation.
- Unmatched Comfort: Plush leatherette upholstery, ventilated seats for both the front and second rows (in the 6-seater version), a 6-way powered driver’s seat with a memory function, and a 4-way powered co-driver seat.
- Panoramic Sunroof: A massive voice-assisted panoramic sunroof with mood lighting that floods the cabin with light and air, enhancing the sense of space.
- Premium Audio: A 10-speaker JBL sound system with a subwoofer and Harman AudioworX technology that delivers an immersive audio experience.
- Convenience at its Best: A powered gesture-controlled tailgate, dual-zone climate control, an air purifier, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad.
Fact #3: Uncompromising Safety – The Safari’s Biggest Strength
Perhaps the most compelling reason to buy a Tata Safari is its unwavering focus on safety. It has been awarded a 5-star safety rating by both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP, achieving the highest scores ever for an Indian car.
Standard and Advanced Safety Features:
- 7 Airbags: Including a driver’s knee airbag, offered as standard on higher variants.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): A comprehensive suite of 11 ADAS features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Detection.
- Solid Build: Built on the OMEGARC architecture, derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform, providing exceptional structural integrity.
- Standard Safety Kit: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Hill Hold Assist, Traction Control, and an Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold are standard across many variants.
The “Affordable Price” – A Matter of Perspective
The Tata Safari’s ex-showroom prices range from approximately ₹16.19 lakh to ₹27.34 lakh. While this is not “affordable” in the conventional sense, it represents excellent value for money within the 3-row premium SUV segment. When you compare its size, list of features, 5-star safety rating, and powerful engine against competitors like the Mahindra XUV700, MG Hector Plus, and Hyundai Alcazar, the Safari presents a very strong and competitive package.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Tata Safari in 2025?
Disregard the misleading headlines. The real Tata Safari doesn’t need exaggerated claims to impress. It stands tall on its own merits.
You should seriously consider the Tata Safari if:
- Safety is your absolute top priority for your family.
- You are looking for a spacious and comfortable 6 or 7-seater SUV with a commanding road presence.
- You frequently travel on highways and need a powerful and stable cruiser.
- You love a feature-packed, modern, and luxurious cabin.
- You appreciate bold, homegrown engineering and design.
The Tata Safari of 2025 is not a mythical, high-mileage, 8-seater vehicle. It is a real-world, premium SUV that delivers a class-leading combination of safety, power, style, and technology. And in the real world, those are the facts that truly matter.