English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Tata Safari: generations, engines, and what to check when buying
The Tata Safari is an SUV from the Indian manufacturer Tata, which debuted in 1998 and was produced for many years with minimal changes to its core technology. In this article, we'll look at the generations, engines, trims, and what to check when buying a used Safari in Lithuania.
Safari in brief
The Safari is a five-door SUV with a body-on-frame design and the option for four-wheel drive. It's built as a rugged, no-frills machine for tough roads, so practicality takes precedence over luxury or quiet comfort.
In the European market, including Lithuania, the Safari was sold in small quantities, so today you'll only find individual examples. It's often chosen by those who need an affordable SUV and understand that spare parts won't be as readily available as for more popular brands.
Which generation to choose
The first-generation Safari was produced for over twenty years. During that time, it received updates—later versions featured newer diesel engines and better interior trim, and eventually, the Safari Storme arrived with a refreshed look.
Since 2021, the Safari name has been given to a completely new model aimed more at urban buyers in the Indian market. It's not the same vehicle we're discussing in this article.
Engines and transmissions
Early versions had around a 2-litre turbodiesel engine, and later came a 2.2-litre diesel (named Dicor) with more power — around 140hp in the Storme version. More powerful versions came with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Petrol variants were almost non-existent in Europe, and an automatic gearbox was rarely offered, so buyers should pay attention to the manual gearbox and four-wheel drive operation.
What to check when buying a used Safari
The body-on-frame construction can rust, so thoroughly inspect the frame, sills, and underbody. Test the four-wheel drive and low-range transfer case if it has one.
Check the diesel engine for smoke, oil leaks, and turbocharger noise. Older SUVs often have worn-out electrics and interior trim, so test all controls.
Before buying, find out where to source parts and who can service this model in Lithuania — there’s no official dealer.
Trim levels
Version names vary by market; we list the most common based on technical specs.
Safari 2,0 TDI
First generationEarly version with around a 2-litre diesel engine.
- Around a 2-litre turbodiesel
- Often — basic interior trim
- Often — manual gearbox
Safari 4x4
First generationVersion with four-wheel drive.
- Often — four-wheel drive
- Often — greater towing capacity
- Often — additional safety features
Safari Dicor
Later modelUpdated with a 2.2-litre diesel engine.
- 2.2-litre diesel (around 140 hp in later models)
- Often — improved interior trim
- Often — more electrical equipment
Safari Storme
Later modelUpdated styling and technology.
- Often — refreshed design
- Often — better interior trim
- Often — 2.2-litre diesel
Comparing Safari variants
| 2,0 TDI | 4x4 | Dicor | Storme | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Budget-friendly 4x4 | For tough roads | For frequent use | For a more modern look |
| Wheels (usually) | Basic | Basic or alloy | Alloy | Alloy |
| Engine | Around a 2-litre turbodiesel | Often a 2-litre diesel | 2.2-litre diesel | 2.2-litre diesel |
| Interior | Basic | Basic | A bit more refined | A bit more modern |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | € | €€ |
The Safari is ideal for those who need an affordable off-roader and are prepared to hunt for parts. If possible, opt for a later version with the 2.2-litre diesel and in better condition.
Pros
- Ladder-frame chassis and robust engineering
- Option for four-wheel drive
- Affordable in the used market
- Simple construction
Cons
- Rare in Lithuania, parts aren't so easy to come by
- Plush comfort and interior
- Rust on the frame and underbody
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tata Safari reliable?
The construction is simple and sturdy, but reliability heavily depends on the specific car's maintenance and where you can source parts. Before buying, ask for the service history.
Has the Safari been sold in Europe?
Yes, but in small quantities, so it's very rare in Lithuania. There's no official representative here.
Is the new Safari the same model?
No. From 2021, the Safari nameplate was given to a new vehicle designed for the Indian market. It differs technically from the previous generation of SUV.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
