The Safari Merlin has been caught numerous times. We have seen many test mules doing the rounds. Seems like Tata is waiting for the right time to launch the SUV and making sure the Safari is top notch in all aspects especially after the XUV 500 which is considered the bench mark in terms of fit, finish, quality and features.
We now a pretty clear image of the Merlin’s interiors in terms of the front dashboard thanks to a Team Bhpian. Tata has chosen the four spoke steering design which gives a chunky feel. We feel it’s to house the airbag.
Wooden dash inserts and round dials give the dashboard a elegant look. What’s most important now is that the Safari should be more value for money.
A price staring at around Rs. 8.5 lakhs for the base model and max Rs. 11 lakhs for the top of the line 4×4 is it has to give the XUV some serious competition.
The Merlin is based on the Aria platform and we can expect the safety features like 6 airbags, ESP, ABS, EBD and hopefully a new feature the Hill decent control to make it.
The Safari will be powered by the same 2.2 Dicor engine with some tweaks to improve performance.
It’s just a matter of few months more before we get to see the Safari Merlin.