Spied Again - Tata Safari Merlin caught in Pune

Tata Motors continues development of the Safari Merlin, which could hit the market during the last quarter of this year, in time for Diwali. Seen here is a Safari Merlin on test in Pune city traffic.

The Safari Merlin will heavily borrow features from the Aria. The driving position could be a bit more like a car and the cabin will be less noisy during acceleration and cruising. The gearbox likewise could be a G76 Mk2, an improved version of the current model.

The engine could feature a reworked oil sump, dual mass flywheel and mounts designed to wipe out unnecessary vibrations and harshness. The steering could provide a bit more feedback and the clutch, likewise, will take less effort to operate. The suspension will be reworked to better low- and high- speed ride and handling

A reskinned exterior is performed with the view of improving the Safari's already awesome road presence. The spare wheel, like on the Aria, might be mounted beneath the luggage area for a clean rear. Projector headlamps is another likely feature.

The Merlin could replace the current Safari range or Tata could offer limited variants of the existing Safari.