Is the Tata Safari Diesel Manual Still the Best Choice for Long-Distance Touring?

Few names in Indian SUVs carry the same weight as the Tata Safari diesel manual. From the original ladder-frame behemoth that ruled highways in the early 2000s to the latest BS6.2-compliant monocoque iteration, the Safari has been a trusted highway workhorse. Families appreciate the sheer comfort and practicality that this SUV delivers and it's no wonder that even after two decades since Safari’s inception, it's still selling hot. 

But with today's turbo-petrols, multiple types of modern automatic transmissions, and feature-heavy competitors crowding the segment, the big question is: does the manual-diesel Safari still deserve its reputation as the ultimate long-distance companion? Read ahead to find out. 

The Touring DNA of the Tata Safari

The initial 2.0 litre and then later 2.2 litre Dicor and Varicor diesels made their mark because they offered exactly what Indian highways demanded. They delivered torque-rich pulling power, long tank ranges and the ability to be driven rough without complaint. The Safari is big enough for five adults, you could add luggage, and still have the grunt to overtake trucks with confidence.

Fast-forward to the modern-day Tata Safari diesel manual, and that DNA has not disappeared. The current 2-litre Kryotec diesel may be a Fiat-sourced engine, but combined with a 6-speed manual, it still has the kind of linear torque spread that tourers swear by. 

Why Do People Still Prefer the Tata Safari Manual?

Long-distance driving in India is not just about expressways: it includes ghats, bypasses, sudden diversions, and slow-moving traffic through small towns. The Tata Safari diesel manual gives direct control over gear shifts, allowing drivers to hold torque exactly when they need it, particularly on climbs or when overtaking.

And then there’s longevity. Traditionally, diesel manuals have always held their value more in the used car market than automatics. Clutch replacement costs are much lower than AT rebuilds, and, since Safari buyers usually put in some serious highway kilometres, reliability is no small factor. For buyers looking at a used Tata Safari, the manual is often the safer bet for maintenance and touring peace of mind.

Tata Safari Touring Range Across Generations

One of the reasons why the Tata Safari diesel manual has gained its reputation among long-distance travellers is sheer consistency. Every generation of the Safari has been able to carry the family, their luggage and glide long journeys without tank anxiety. The following is the touring range across generations:

• Early 2.0-litre & 2.2 Dicor: These featured a hefty 65-litre tank and offered fuel economy of about 11-13 km/l on highways, a range of 650-750 km between refuels. For its time, that was unmatched; with one tank, you could go from Delhi-Manali or Mumbai-Goa.
   
• Varicor 400 (Storme): These units ran a 63-litre tank, efficiency improved to around 14 km/l in steady cruising. That translated to a comfortable 800-850 km touring range, so fewer stops even on cross-country trips.
   
• Current 2.0 Kryotec Manual: The new BS6.2 model is equipped with a 50-litre tank and highway efficiency of 16-17 km/l. That gets you about 750-800km on a full tank, which is impressive given the size of the Safari and the newer technology on board.

The Safari has always been about big-tank practicality. No matter the generation, the result is the same: less time at the fuel stations, more time moving.

Space, Comfort, and That Safari Feel

Touring is not just about drivetrains: it's about how the SUV feels after 500 km behind the wheel. This is where the Safari has always done well across generations. The first models had wide, couch-like seats that cradled fatigue better than other models of the time. The current Safari goes further with ventilated seats, a commanding driving position and suspension tuning that takes the sting out of rough patches.

While some rivals like the XUV700 or Scorpio-N boast more outright horsepower, the Safari's excellence in keeping passengers fresh is what makes it one of the best touring cars on the road. 

Safari vs the Modern Rivals

The SUV space has evolved drastically and anyone who is thinking about buying a used Tata Safari or the current-gen model will inevitably compare it with the likes of the Scorpio-N, XUV700 and Harrier. Here’s the touring context when the latest models collide:

• Mahindra Scorpio-N diesel manual: Excellent torque, very capable on rough terrain, but its ride feels firmer than the Tata Safari on a long ride.
• Mahindra XUV700 diesel manual: Punchier motor, more modern tech, but the third row and comfort is where the Tata Safari shines.
• Tata Harrier diesel manual: Essentially a 5-seater Safari sharing the same driving characteristics, but it lacks the additional touring practicality of a large cabin.

For pure highway comfort and space, Tata Safari diesel manual still makes a strong case.

When the Manual Safari Makes Sense in 2025

The manual is not for everybody, but for buyers who are touring-focused, this is where it stands out:

• You want long-term reliability and lower long-term repair costs.
• You like to have direct control over ghats, hilly terrains, and overtakes.
• You are looking at the pre-owned Tata Safari market, diesel manuals from the Dicor, Varicor, or even the pre-facelift Safari  BS6 models can be a solid highway choice at reasonable prices.

However, if you mostly drive in the city or want more comfort, then the automatic versions of the Safari or even rival SUVs would be better.

So, Does the Safari Manual Still Win the Touring Crown?

The answer is yes, if you are a serious long-distance traveller, the Tata Safari diesel manual still commands its rightful place at the top. It's not the flashiest SUV on the market today, and it's not the fastest, but few cars are as comfortable, capable of long-distance travel, and touring easy as the Safari. And with the high demand for a 2nd hand Tata Safari, it's evident that the interest of India's touring crowd hasn't dwindled just yet, which means better resale value when you plan to sell. 

Summary

The Tata Safari diesel manual has continued its legacy as India's go-to touring SUV, right from the Dicor era to the Kryotec engine today. It offers torque-rich, long-range drivability and highway comfort few can match. While automatics and feature-loaded SUVs have gained popularity, the manual Safari continues to retain its position with reliability, real-world efficiency and the type of touring ease that makes it a smart buy. 

If you are looking to buy pre-owned, check out CARS24’s verified used Tata Safari listings for a hassle-free and warranty-backed ownership experience.