There was a time when driving a large seven-seater in city traffic meant constant clutch work, aching legs and endless gear shifts. The Tata Safari automatic changes that experience completely as it takes the familiar road presence of one of India’s most recognisable SUVs and adds the kind of effortless driving modern buyers expect.
Where The Automatic Range Begins
The automatic transmission enters the Safari lineup from the Pure X AT variant, which is often seen as the value-for-money choice. It already brings premium touches like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a fully digital driver display, a panoramic sunroof and paddle shifters. Choosing the automatic over the manual usually adds about Rs 1.3-1.4 lakh to the price.
The automatic option brings more
feature-loaded trims such as Adventure X+ AT which starts at Rs 17,75,090 (ex-showroom) and Accomplished X+ at Rs 22,73,490 (ex-showroom) and Ultra AT at Rs 23,33,490 (ex-showroom).
Engine Options
The Safari automatic is equipped with the brand's well-known 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel engine producing 170 PS and 350 Nm. It is strong on highways, relaxed at cruising speeds and delivers power in a smooth and predictable manner.
In 2026, Tata also introduced a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol automatic which generates 170 PS and 280 Nm. This engine is quieter, more refined in city use and appeals to buyers who are concerned about future diesel restrictions.
Both engines are paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, which is known for its smooth and jerk-free shifts.
Also Read: All About Mahindra’s Rs 3.59 Lakh Electric Auto Called Udo - Battery, Range And More
Built For Comfort, Not Off-Roading
The Safari is based on the OMEGARC platform, derived from Land Rover’s D8 architecture. That sounds complicated, but it really means that the SUV is engineered for stability, safety and long-distance comfort. It is a front-wheel-drive SUV, so it is not meant for hardcore off-roading. Instead, it shines as a city and highway cruiser.
Features That Make Daily Life Easier
Modern Safari automatic variants come loaded with technology that makes daily commutes or weekend drives easier and fun-
- Drive modes — Eco, City and Sport
- Electronic parking brake with Auto Hold
- Level 2 ADAS (features like emergency braking and lane alerts)
- 360-degree camera
- Ventilated seats
- Premium 10-speaker audio system
Space And Practicality
Safari comes in two seating options which are 6 or 7 seaters. The Safari is built for families. The second row is among the most comfortable in the segment. Boot space is 420 litres with the third row folded, though it becomes limited when all seats are in use which is a common trait in three-row SUVs.
Mileage And Real-World Expectations
The Safari Automatic Diesel delivers 14.1 km/l ARAI mileage and petrol version gives approximately 14.1 to 16.8 kmpl, but in real city driving, expect 8-11 km/l, depending on traffic and driving style.
The Real Appeal
To place the Safari’s automatic gearbox into proper perspective, it helps to look at what rivals are offering, as the Mahindra XUV700 uses a 6-speed torque converter as well, but its tuning feels more eager when you accelerate hard, especially in the diesel, making it the quicker choice for enthusiastic drivers. The MG Hector, on the other hand, offers a CVT with its petrol engine and a dual-clutch automatic in some global configurations, both of which prioritise smoothness and efficiency over outright punch.
Where the Safari stands out is in the way its Hyundai-sourced torque converter delivers power in a relaxed, linear manner. It may not feel as sporty as the XUV700 under full throttle, but in slow-moving city traffic and long highway cruises, it behaves with a calm, almost luxury-SUV character.
What makes the Safari automatic special is not just its feature list, but it is the way it delivers a stress-free driving experience in a large, premium SUV. And for many Indian buyers today, that promise of ease and presence is more valuable than outright performance.
