Tata Safari Storme facelift to launch in a couple of weeks - Report

Would feature a new Harman Kardon sound system with steering integrated controls.

According to a report on AutoPortal, Tata Motors will introduce the Safari Storme facelift in the second week of this month.

As spyshots have shown, the Safari Storme facelift will get subtle exterior changes. A new, Land Rover like grille and a mesh-type design for the airdam were the only changes observed in spyshots. Another minor change is that the front fenders of the SUV would sport new 'Varicor 400' badges, highlighting the improved engine.

Speaking of the engine, the Storme facelift will continue with the 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, but will produce a much higher 160 PS and 400 Nm of torque. These figures are about 20 PS and 80 Nm higher than the current Safari Storme. Paired to a 5-speed manual transmission, the Storme will continue to be offered with 2WD and 4WD. An automatic transmission variant is also on the anvil.

According to the report, the interior of the Storme facelift will be redone to include a Harman Kardon sound system with steering-mounted controls, optional Captains chairs for the second row, and a forward-facing third row bench.

Also read: Tata Nano Twist Active ready to ship to dealers - Spied

Tata Motors hopes these changes will push sales of the Safari Storme, which manages to rake in only about 650 units/month (average sales of the Safari and Safari Storme calculated over a 6 month period).

Rivals: Mahindra Scorpio, Renault Duster
Expected Price: Rs 10-14 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Tentative Launch date: April 2015 (unconfirmed)

[Source AutoPortal]