5 Used Tata Safari cars in India

Best Age of Used Tata Safari to Buy

The new-generation Tata Safari was launched in early 2021 as a three-row SUV based on the Harrier platform. It brought with it a modern design, panoramic sunroof, premium cabin materials, and a reliable 2.0L diesel engine sourced from Fiat (Kryotec). Since launch, it has seen feature updates and special editions, with a major facelift arriving in late 2023.

Depreciation Trends

Like most premium SUVs in India, the Safari sees the highest depreciation within the first few years:

Year 1: 18-20% drop from ex-showroom value

Years 2-3: A further 10-15% drop annually

Year 4 onward: Slower depreciation, retaining around 55-60% of original value

A Tata Safari that originally cost ₹22-24 lakh (on-road) in 2021 may now be available for ₹15-17 lakh in 2024, depending on variant, mileage, and condition.

Ideal Model Years to Target

If you’re buying a used Tata Safari in 2024, the best options lie in the 2021 to 2022 models:

These include most of the essential features, like a panoramic sunroof, 6 airbags (in higher trims), and ventilated seats.

Depreciation has already brought prices to a more accessible level.

Most units still fall within the original warranty period (2 years standard, 5 years with extension).

Models from 2023 and newer are still priced close to new, while 2021-2022 models offer the best value-for-money sweet spot.

Best Used Tata Safari Variant to Buy

Tata offers the Safari in multiple trims, XE, XM, XT, XZ, and their feature-loaded “+” variants. Over the years, these have been joined by special editions like Adventure, Gold, and Dark Editions. Choosing the right variant is crucial to balancing price, features, and future resale value.

Best Value-for-Money Variant: XT+ or XZ (2021-2022)

If you’re buying a used Tata Safari from the first few production years (2021-2022), the XT+ and XZ variants hit the sweet spot.

Why XT+ Makes Sense:

Panoramic sunroof (a key buyer pull)

8.8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Rear camera and rear wiper/defogger

Automatic climate control and rear AC vents

18-inch alloy wheels

LED DRLs and projector headlamps

XZ Offers Additional Premium Features:

6 airbags, ESC, hill hold control

Ventilated front seats

JBL-tuned audio system

iRA connected car tech (limited in early versions)

Faux leather upholstery

Lower trims like XM or XT lack key features and are harder to resell without aftermarket upgrades. Top-end XZ+ Gold/Adventure/Dark editions come with more luxuries but also attract higher resale pricing, narrowing the value advantage.

If you’re aiming for balanced pricing and features, a used XT+ or XZ manual/automatic model from 2021 or 2022 is likely the most practical choice.

Used Tata Safari Manual vs Automatic: Which One to Buy?

The Tata Safari is powered exclusively by a 2.0L turbocharged diesel engine, but buyers can choose between two transmissions: a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic (torque converter sourced from Hyundai). The right choice depends on your usage pattern and driving environment.

Manual Transmission (MT)

Standard across all variants

Offers better fuel efficiency (by ~1-2 kmpl compared to AT)

More engaging for highway driving or rural roads

Slightly lower maintenance and repair cost

Suitable for buyers who enjoy driving or do longer intercity travel

Automatic Transmission (AT)

Available from XM upwards

Provides smooth, hassle-free driving in city traffic

Slightly lower mileage than manual, but more convenient

Ideal for urban users or families seeking comfort and ease

Generally commands ₹1.2-₹1.5 lakh premium even in the used market

Verdict:

Choose Manual if you drive long distances, prefer better control, and want lower upfront and running costs.

Choose Automatic if you live in a city, frequently face stop-go traffic, or prioritize comfort over efficiency.

Used Tata Safari Ownership Calculator

Owning a used Tata Safari involves predictable annual costs, especially if you choose a well-maintained unit. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses beyond the purchase price.

Annual Service Costs

Tata recommends servicing the Safari every 15,000 km or once a year.

Routine service: ₹12,000-₹15,000

Major service (every 30,000-45,000 km): ₹18,000-₹22,000 (includes fluid and filter replacements)

Tyre Replacement

The Safari rides on 18-inch wheels with wide-profile tyres.

Cost per tyre: ₹6,000-₹7,000

Total for all tyres: ₹24,000-₹28,000

Replacement interval: Every 40,000-50,000 km

Battery Replacement

Lifespan: 3-4 years

Replacement cost: ₹5,000-₹7,000 (depending on brand and capacity)

Common Wear-and-Tear Replacements

Insurance Renewal

Third-party cover: ₹3,000-₹5,000

Comprehensive policy: ₹10,000-₹15,000 (depending on variant and IDV)

Annual Ownership Estimate (Excluding Insurance)

Manual Safari: ₹22,000-₹26,000

Automatic Safari: ₹24,000-₹28,000

These figures assume regular usage and no major part failures. Extended warranties may further reduce unexpected costs.

Upgrades for Used Tata Safari

While the Safari comes well-equipped, especially in XT+ and XZ+ variants, a few upgrades can significantly improve its comfort, aesthetics, and long-term usability, particularly if you’re buying a mid-variant or an early 2021 model.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Upgrade older 8.8-inch touchscreens to a larger Android Auto/Apple CarPlay unit: ₹20,000-₹30,000

Install reverse camera or 360° camera kits: ₹5,000-₹12,000

Ensure compatibility with steering-mounted controls before upgrading head units

Tyres and Wheels

If the used Safari comes with worn tyres or steel wheels (rare in mid/high variants), consider:

Premium tyres (full set): ₹24,000-₹28,000

Alloy wheel replacement (if needed): ₹25,000-₹35,000

Cabin Enhancements

Seat covers (leatherette or fabric): ₹5,000-₹10,000

Ambient lighting, sunshades, or dashboard trim kits: ₹2,000-₹5,000

Safety and Convenience

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): ₹3,000-₹5,000

Dashcam setup (front/rear): ₹3,000-₹8,000

Blind spot mirrors, upgraded IRVM, or additional USB ports

Suggested Budget

For a noticeable upgrade in comfort and tech, budget ₹30,000-₹60,000, depending on the variant you’re buying and your priorities.