Tata Safari Storme caught testing. But Why?

Tata Motors showcased the new Safari Storme at the 2012 Auto Expo. We got the first glimpse of the vehicle, the features and what the most prominent details.

Well can at the best think of an automatic gear box for the Safari Storme which could be a very good option to attract some customers. Also the Safari is sold in a few outside countries, so the test mule could be for the export markets.

The Tata Aria AT concept showcased at the auto expo offers a 6-speed Automatic Transmission to enhance the driving experience. It features Tiptronic gear selection with sport, economy and cruise driving modes. Torque converter multiplies the low end torque which allows you to drive effortlessly in bumper to bumper traffic at crawling speeds of 6-8 kmph.

So what’s new on the Safari Storme

The Safari Storme sits on an all new platform which also shares with the Aria platform which helps achieve best-in-class turning circle radius of 5.4 metres along with 200mm ground clearance.

In the front are a new grill, new projector headlamps and a ‘power bulge’ on the bonnet. New chrome-tipped twin exhausts, the tailgate in an all-new guise with the spare wheel going under the floor.

Luxurious beige seats matched with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, chrome highlighted gear knob, wood-accented dashboard and door trims, a new instrument cluster, chrome-lined speaker grills and inside door handles endow the interiors with opulence.

 The front seats with fore and aft adjustment and lumbar support make long drives a cruise, while the dual AC with separate integrated roof-mounted blower keeps the entire cabin ambient.

The force of the Safari Storme is in its 2.2L 16-valve common rail (DiCOR) engine (140 PS power; 320 Nm torque) with a variable geometry turbo, mated with a 5-speed manual transmission. Electronic shift-on-the-fly (ESOF) enables shifting from 2WD to 4WD even on the move.

Image source: Motorbash