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• All-new Tata Safari ownership review after 6,000 kms of good, bad & no roads All-new Tata Sa...

All-new Tata Safari ownership review after 6,000 kms of good, bad & no roads

Written By: Ajeesh Kuttan Ajeesh specializes both in bikes and cars, delivering timely news reports and excelling in video production.

Published: May 15, 2021, 12:48 IST

Updated: May 15, 2021, 11:18 IST

Ajeesh specializes both in bikes and cars, delivering timely news reports and excelling in video production. (Full bio)

Tata Motors is one of the leading car manufacturer in India and they have a variety products in their lineup. The manufacturer in the beginning of this year announced that, they will be naming their new 7-seater SUV after the iconic SUV Safari. Within weeks, Tata launched the all-new Safari in the market and deliveries for the same have also started. Several celebrities have also bought the all-new Safari SUV. Here we have a video from a Tata Safari owner, who shares is overall experience with the SUV after driving it for approximately 6,000 kms.

The video has been uploaded by All in One Entertainment on their YouTube channel. The vlogger had recently bought this SUV and was excited to share his experience with the SUV. In this video he mentions the things that he liked and did not like about the SUV. The vlogger starts by giving a small walkaround of all-new Safari. In this he mentions that, it looks a lot like the Harrier from the front but, there are minor changes like tri-arrow chrome inserts on grille which gives it an identity of its own.

Also read: All New Tata Safari: Can a tall adult comfortably sleep in it? (Video)

It continues to offer the projector headlamps, LED DRLs and halogen foglamps. The vlogger says that many people have suggested him to replaced the stock lights with LEDs but, the vlogger said he was very impressed with the way lights were performing at the moment. He was happy with the overall design of the SUV and also mentions that the rear section has been slightly redesigned in comparison to a Harrier.

On the inside, the vlogger had covered the seats with a towel to protect it from getting dirty. The light coloured interiors in the Safari as a bit hard to maintain in the long run. The vlogger even mentions that he had installed 7D floor mats and he was very happy with the SUV. One of the problem he faced in the Harrier was that his knee kept of hitting or rubbing against the center console. The same problem is their in the Harrier as well. To resolve this issue, the owner slides the seat to the rear and then sits.

The vlogger also talks about the panoramic sunroof. He says that, if people are living in a warmer area, then they should opt for a variant without sunroof as it lets more light inside the cabin and increases the cabin temperature. He then talks about the engine and drive quality. Vlogger mentions that, he took the SUV on a 4 day road trip to the hills and he had faced no problems with the SUV. The auto hold function came in handy while driving on incline roads.

He mentions that, if one is looking for a hardcore off-road SUV, then they should look for other options but, for regular usage Safari is a good companion. The owner all mentioned that, he will be replacing the HT tyres on Harrier with AT tyres in future. Overall, the owner was quite impressed with the all-new Tata Safari SUV.

Also read: 3 Volkswagen Touareg 4X4 Diesel V6 luxury SUVs selling cheaper than 2020 Hyundai Creta

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• Tata Safari Facelift Review: New Avatar Of The Flagship SUV

By Ninad Mirajgaonkar

5 mins read

Published on October 15, 2023

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• The new Tata Safari facelift has received major updates inside-out
• The SUV is a lot more feature-packed now and get advanced tech
• The Safari Facelift will be launched in India on October 17, 2023

Twenty-five years is a long time – and if you are an early millennial like me, back in 1998 you were just about in your teenage, and in awe of this sensation called the Tata Safari . Now I am closer to my mid-life crisis and a large, in-your-face SUV is just what the doctor has prescribed, but in the last 25 years, the Safari too has evolved. This child prodigy that we all fell in love with has also come of age. So, I spent a day with the new Safari to figure out how this facelifted version fits the needs of someone looking to buy an SUV, today.

Also Read: Tata Harrier Facelift, Safari Facelift Launch On October 17, 2023

The Safari has moved on from the angry look; that is just the Harrier now. Tata with this facelift has created more distinction between the two SUVs. While the Harrier continues to get horizontal and angular lines, the Safari has more vertical elements. What this has ensured is that instead of looking like a fighter about to enter the ring, the Safari now carries itself with the charm of an army officer! 

Also Read: Tata Harrier Facelift Review

In terms of design updates, this now gets a full-width LED bar with welcome and goodbye animation. While I am not a big fan of this new trend, to be honest, it does look nice on the Safari. The profile is more or less the same, but the new 19-inch alloys are very cool looking and fill up the wheel wells nicely. 

As for the rear, the LED taillights also get a connected pattern, in line with the Safari’s design theme with vertical lines. Having said that, the rear isn’t the most appealing angle to look at the safari; the design makes it look a little smaller than it is. 

Also Read: Tata Harrier Facelift, Safari Facelift Nominated For Bharat NCAP Crash Tests

I like the way the new Safari looks – sophisticated! One of the key reasons for that is also the choice of colours – the Cosmic Gold that I drove is quite unique, I am also keen on looking at the Supernova Copper and Lunar Slate.

At first glance, the inside looks very different from the earlier model. Though the layout is very much the same, to ensure that the SUV feels more premium Tata has played with the styling. The dashboard gets faux wood inlays with a pinstripe pattern, which helps in creating this upmarket image. And I think it looks particularly nice.

Although a bit gimmicky, the new steering, with the illuminated Tata logo, does get its fair share of attention and the infotainment system is a 12.3-inch unit on this top-end Accomplished persona. The instrument cluster is also big, 10.25-inch to be precise, with many customisation options. The Safari also gets a piano black panel for capacitive buttons for AC and other in-car controls, along with a rotary dial with a built-in screen for the terrain modes.

New features on the Safari include a powered tailgate (finally!), a 10-speaker JBL system, 7 airbags, wireless charger dual-zone AC, and rear sunshades. The system also comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with JBL modes that allow you to select between different predefined music settings. 

The space in the car remains unchanged. If you intend to use the Safari as a chauffeur-driven car, then the boss mode at the back is handy. Also, the cooled seats at the back are a very valuable feature that not many in the market offer at this point. The third row is for children and has its own storage pockets, air vents and charging points with USB and type-C ports. 

Performance

There is no change to the powertrain of the Safari. It runs on the same 2.0-litre diesel motor that makes 168 bhp and 350 Nm of torque. The key updates here are the paddle shifters and the switch to electric power steering, which make driving this relatively large SUV easier.

In city mode, it lacks bottom-end, this though can be quickly addressed by the use of paddle shifters or Sport mode. There are a few tweaks to the suspension as well and the ride is marginally better than before, not that it was ever too bad!

While overall I like the way Safari drives, I am not a big fan of the ADAS for everyday usage. It feels intrusive and the cabin is always ringing with one alert or another, since driving sense in our chaotic cities is abysmal. 

On the highway, though it is a different story, with the adaptive cruise control, expressway driving becomes a lot easier.  

With the ground clearance and the torque, some amount of soft-roading too is easy for the Safari. For those still looking for AWD, I think the wait will continue at least till 2025.

Safety and Variant Details

Six airbags are standard across all five personas of the Safari. The base is the Smart Persona which comes with 17-inch alloys and 6 airbags. The Pure Persona gets a touchscreen infotainment system with 6 speakers, Android Auto, Apple Carplay and a reverse parking camera. 

Also Read: Tata Safari Facelift: Variants Explained

The Adventure Persona above it, gets 18-inch wheels, 360-degree view cameras for parking and optional ADAS which is not updated to offer adaptive cruise control. The top-end Fearless and Dark persona gets 19-inch alloys, a bigger display and a music system along with 7 airbags. 

For the ones looking at the Safari as an answer to their midlife crisis, they will have to look somewhere else. Without the AWD, the Safari is not a toy. This is a serious car for a mature buyer. For someone looking for a 6- and 7-seater family car with solid features, modern tech like ADAS, decent space and acceptable safety, the Tata Safari makes a very compelling case. Prices for the SUV will be announced on October 17, 2023, and I think a premium of Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh, depending on the variant, would be a reasonable ask. 

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2023 Tata Safari facelift review: Family car with bachelor's spirit

• Decent styling updates on the outside
• Much more premium cabin than before
• No AWD or petrol engine option
• Tata Safari gets subtle but significant updates to its exterior styling while the cabin has been armed with newer features.

The Tata Safari is the flagship model for the Indian car maker that was first introduced in the country in 2021. At that time, the focus was as much on drawing inspiration from an iconic name as was on putting a brand-new model on a pedestal. This eventually resulted in the introduction of a three-row vehicle that promised SUV-like style but claimed MPV-like comfort. Fast forward just two years and the updated Tata Safari has a new wardrobe to show off in 2023.

Tata has been steadily increasing its focus on passenger vehicles that not just drive well and have top-notch safety credentials but look cutting-edge as well. Or at least extremely contemporary. Just look at the models like Altroz hatchback, the updated Nexon compact SUV and Nexon EV or even the latest Harrier SUV. Here are cars across different body types that showcase the current best that Tata Motors' designers have to offer. And it is a treat for sure. Towards this end, the new Tata Safari has been given a noticeable makeover as well even though it obviously retains its OG flavour.

Also check these Cars

And then there is the pivotal factor of in-car features - the more, the better, even if you end up not using a significant chunk of these in the long run. The Koreans started the trend and rivals like Tata Motors are only too keen to hit back. The Tata Safari, therefore, was always going to be pampered and peppered with features galore. So how do all of these factors come together to manifest in the flagship product from Tata Motors? Here is the first-drive review of the 2023 Tata Safari facelift:

Also watch: 2023 Tata Safari review: Family SUV with bachelor spirit?

2023 Tata Safari facelift: Exterior

The updated Safari looks a tad bit more sporty compared to the outgoing model, while still retaining its largely sophisticated exterior design language. The face, for instance, has been reworked and now sports a new grille, a reworked vertical housing for the fog lamps and headlights, and a stretched DRL bar that connects the sequential DRLs on either side. In a nutshell, the comprehensive updates of the front fascia have given the SUV a butch yet premium look, making it significantly distinctive from the previous model which it has replaced.

There is not much change in the side profile of the new Tata Safari SUV, apart from the reworked alloy design on the 19-inch wheels. The design is likely to evoke different reactions from different viewpoints instead of inviting unilateral awe. But what works really well is how Tata Motors' designers have managed to snub the use of chrome elements and still come up with a visually striking profile. Overall, the side profile of the SUV looks slightly curvy and pretty clean. The subtly flared wheel arches give the SUV a bold and muscular look, while the new design alloy wheels enhance the premium sporty feel.

There are no chrome elements on the rear of the Safari either, where a stretched LED bar connects the two tail lights and runs all across the length of the trunk door which, by the way, offers powered powered-open option. Besides that, the tailgate looks pretty sculpted thanks to the glossy black panel running through the centre of the trunk that also houses the sleek LED bar. The integrated roof spoiler and chunky black bumper with a thick metal skid plate are other design elements that come enhancing the SUV's bold visual appearance.

2023 Tata Safari facelift: Interior

The new Tata Safari's cabin has become much more premium now and a slew of updates to the feature list as well as to the upholstery lend the vehicle a premium appeal that would have otherwise been restricted to models in segments above the one this car competes in. The top-end Accomplished variant - or persona, as Tata Motors refers to it, comes with a dual-tone colour scheme inside the cabin but the White theme on the seats would be quite hard to maintain in pristine condition.

The layered dashboard now gets an artificial wood panel which is a nice touch while the central section is dominated by a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display unit that is intuitive, puts out clear feed from the 360-degree cameras and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The map feed can also be redirected to the all-digital driver display screen for better navigation which now sports customisable layouts.

The steering wheel has also been updated and is now a four-spoke set with mounted controls and has an illuminated Tata logo on it. This is certainly another nice touch from Tata Motors enhancing the premium quotient inside the cabin of the new Safari SUV. The updated steering wheel is quite easy to operate and control the advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) functionalities that this car offers, courtesy of the layout of the control buttons on the wheel. On that note, the new Tata Safari SUV offers 11 ADAS functions in a further bid to aid driving safety and convenience.

There are plenty of other convenience features that the new Safari packs as well, whether it is the dual-zone climate control function, air purification system, ventilated seats at the front and middle, voice-activated panoramic sunroof, Alexa to Home technology or remote access to the vehicle.

Space remains the same inside the cabin of the new Tata Safari, which means that the SUV continues to be a decently spacious vehicle for passengers in all three rows. Space in that third row, however, continues to come at the cost of a compromised boot storage space. But that's really expected, right?

Overall, the new Tata Safari SUV come as a very well-appointed vehicle with quite a lot of space for comfortable long trips but now, at least in the top-spec version, is significantly more premium than before.

2023 Tata Safari facelift: Safety

Tata Motors has been taking the front row across different segments in the Indian passenger vehicle market over the last few years when it comes to making safe cars. While the modern Tata cars come with a wide range of safety features, they also come with robust build quality as well. The Tata Safari facelift too comes following the same strategy.

The Tata Safari comes well-equipped with a host of safety features designed to provide peace of mind to the occupants. Some of the advanced safety technologies available onboard the Tata Safari facelift include multiple airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, electronic parking brake with auto hold, rain-sensing wipers, rollover mitigation, hill hold control, 360-degree view HD camera system, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and lane departure warning, front collision prevention function, blind spot detection etc. Moreover, it also gets features like ABS with EBD, Isofix child seat anchors etc.

Here are some of the key safety features onboard the Tata Safari.

• Seven airbags with six as standard
• Electronic stability control as standard
• Three-point seatbelts in all rows
• Seatbelt reminder for all passengers
• Isofix tethers
• Seatbelts with retractor, pre-tensioner, load limiter and anchor pretensioner
• Reinforced cabin structure promising to provide symmetric crash performance and side pole impact

Update: Keeping the trend of introducing safe cars in India, Tata Motors has delivered again with the new Safari and Harrier, as both these two SUVs have achieved five-star Global NCAP safety ratings for adult and child occupant categories. Besides that, the Tata Safari and the Tata Harrier SUVs scored a five-star safety rating at the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP or BNCAP) as well. While announcing the test results Bharat NCAP authorities have announced that the Tata Safari and Tata Harrier have scored five-star ratings with top-notch adult and child safety ratings in frontal, side and pole side impact tests.

2023 Tata Safari facelift: Performance

Here is where the updated Tata Safari SUV could have been improved so much more. But isn't. So much has already been mentioned - and experienced - about the 2.0-litre turbo diesel motor under the hood and the choice between an automatic gearbox and a six-speed manual stick. Yes, the turbocharged diesel motor could have been refined further. Yes, the grunt is still uncomfortably palpable when pushing the vehicle to its limits. But yes, the new Tata Safari - especially with the automatic transmission - is still quite a fun car to drive and has enough power to get a move on when required. The suspension continues to hold its own on rough roads and the steering still has a nice heft to aid matters.

But why this otherwise very capable model does not also come with a petrol engine under its hood is beyond the comprehension of many. Tata Motors is almost snubbing the petrol-buying audience in the country, a group that is steadily increasing. There is also no 4x4 option for the updated version of the SUV because the platform on which the new Tata Safari is based on does not allow for it. But here is also a miss, especially as this model does go up against authentic off-road options in the market as well.

2023 Tata Safari facelift: Verdict

The updated Tata Safari is a big step up in terms of its exterior design and cabin features and quality when compared to the previous model. Space has always been this car's strength but the additions to the feature list arm this SUV to the absolute teeth.

The diesel motor and the automatic transmission work extremely well in tandem but as mentioned previously, Tata Motors ought to strongly consider a petrol option for the model as well, especially considering the number of buyers favouring the petrol engines are increasing across India over the last few years

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• 2023 Tata Safari First Drive Review

Ninad Ambre

Why would I buy it?

• Road presence
• Improved cabin design
• New-age features

Why would I avoid it?

• ADAS available only in higher variants
• No AWD on offer

What is it?

This is the 2023 avatar of the Tata Safari . Though it’s a facelifted model, it gets changes that make it look like a concept and more upmarket than its predecessor. It’s got a new face with a single grille, which is quite unique with accents that match the exterior body colour on this version. The connected LED bar gets a welcome feature, while the new squared-off headlamp housings on the re-sculpted bumper further help in differentiating it from the earlier model.

The new 19-inch wheels look nice and sturdy with their design similar to the Sierra concept’s wheels showcased at this year's Auto Expo. Then, the rear section has been updated with tweaked taillamps and a new LED bar that boasts the welcome and goodbye animation in line with the front. Besides, there's a faux skid plate on the redesigned bumper with vertically stacked reflectors and reverse light housing. The question is, is the 2023 Safari better than the previous model?

Is the cabin of the 2023 Safari any good?

Although the interior has also been revamped, the design remains more or less the same. The most prominent update is the new steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo that we saw on the new Nexon. It’s worth mentioning that the carmaker incorporated our critical feedback from last time, regarding the odd placement of the horn and the extra effort to use it. This time, it has been repositioned towards the centre, and is sensitive to inputs, unlike our previous experience.

Another change inside the new Safari is in the form of touch controls for the AC. Other crucial updates on the dashboard include a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a fully digital instrument cluster. The latter is replete with a chunk of information including ADAS. Plus, it gets readable fonts, is fast to respond, and is highly customisable. The same is the case with the touchscreen with its clean UI and quick responses, though there’s no haptic feedback or any knobs for quick control.

The seating layout remains unchanged, with good space inside in all rows. However, a major improvement which makes the interior feel more upmarket is the better quality of materials used for the upholstery, dashboard, door pads, and most areas. Nothing feels cheap or out of place, and it still is robust in nature. Also, the Safari was known for its boss mode, and it continues to be, with a laid-back seating style but now with added power adjustments. Besides, the seats get adjustable headrests, thus elevating comfort. To further add to the delight, there are ventilated seats in both rows. This is going to be a boon in our hot and humid climate.

Even in terms of safety, Tata has tried to go a step further. For example, six airbags are standard across all variants/personas, but now, its top-spec version gets an additional driver’s knee airbag as well. Moreover, the Safari gets a 360-degree camera and ADAS, which includes new features like adaptive cruise control and stop-n-go, high beam assist, lane change alert, and lane departure warning. Then, there’s door open alert, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert, among other features. The other crucial ones include rear collision warning, forward collision warning, and even autonomous emergency braking which worked efficiently. It also gets disc brakes all around.

Lest we forget, the Safari gets a new e-call feature for assistance in case of emergencies. The breakdown call intimates the roadside assistance service at the touch of a button. Other noteworthy tech appeals that worked effortlessly include the new TFT cluster, terrain mode selector with TFT screen, audio controls paired with Alexa, powered tailgate opening, and the connected car experience. Lastly, whether you chose the six- or seven-seater version, every persona — from the entry-level Smart to the top-spec Accomplished+ — offers a good variation in exterior colour options and material choices too.

Is the 2023 Safari nice to drive?

The facelifted Safari continues to be powered by the same 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic unit. This motor is BS6 Phase 2-compliant and is tuned to produce 168bhp and 350Nm of peak torque. This, paired with the automatic, still works perfectly well. And if the new segment-first E-shifter (shift by wire) tech is to go by, the experience has only improved. The shifts still feel quick, smooth, and more importantly, in sync with the engine’s characteristics and how it puts the power down. There’s enough torque to pull from slower speeds and the gearbox’s instant response, whether to shift up or down, makes things feel good. One can use the new paddle shifters too, which respond well and make the driving experience quite engaging.

As was the case before, the Eco, City, and Sport modes liven up the driving experience with responsive throttle inputs. It has sufficient load-carrying and people-hauling capabilities, be it in the city or on the highway. It even manages to overtake without any effort despite being a big burly vehicle. This Tata SUV stays planted and stable at triple-digit speeds. Although it is bigger and heavier than the Harrier, its performance isn’t dull. Moreover, the terrain mode selector helps alter the response through the software maps and works efficiently like before. Still, some off-road enthusiasts will point out that AWD would have made the SUV more capable in hilly regions and slippery conditions. But from our experience, for the most part, it will tackle trails and rough terrain with poise.

On the ride and handling front, the Safari continues to tower over broken roads, potholes, ruts, etc. with its high ground clearance, tall stance, and well-balanced suspension. So, be it low-speed bump absorption or high-speed thuds, occupants won’t feel unsettled and there’s not much noise heard inside. Its robust nature and build outshines, of course, with the Land Rover DNA in its underpinnings.

The heavier hydraulic steering was a cause of concern for some old Safari owners, and it has been taken care of by the new electronic power steering. It does feel lighter at lower speeds but manages to add that weight as the speed builds up, as seen in the Sport mode too. The ADAS doesn’t feel intrusive and manages to guide if the car is veering off the marked lanes. On the braking front too, the all-discs continue to provide good stopping power and are well tuned to the emergency automatic braking system. It worked as seamlessly as the adaptive cruise control, which functioned at the touch of a command.

Should you buy the 2023 Safari?

With plenty of body colours to choose from, including the dual-tone option, which is a first in this segment, and with many new features, Tata Motors wants to ensure that the new Safari appeals to a wider audience. With its macho appearance, it still can be a symbol of authority while offering a premium and spacious cabin. Moreover, prospective buyers get new technology and added connectivity, while cocooned in safety. The pricing isn’t available yet, but if Tata Motors doesn’t ask for an unreasonable premium, it will be easy for a buyer to decide, as the 2023 Safari is indeed quite appealing with the new changes.

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Pre-worshipped Honda CB500X Ownership Review

The CB500X has a successor in 2024, but I think the 2019-2022 models still look fresh and relevant.

BHPian tejus.s recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

How it started

In 2006, I was introduced to motorcycles through the humble Suzuki Samurai. The Samurai was overshadowed by its much lauded stablemates - Shaolin and Shogun - both hooligan motorcycles in their own way. Still, the Samurai taught me how to ride a motorcycle and got me off my TVS Scooty (thank God for that!). At the time, I did not know much about maintenance and a couple of bad decisions with my FNG mechanic meant the Samurai had to go. For a couple of years, I used my brother’s Honda Unicorn - a great bike in its own right. 

The first motorcycle I bought was the Karizma R. I loved everything about that bike - design, engine, comfort and long distance capabilities. Hero’s service was pretty awful, but it did not put off my buying decision. I traveled a fair bit on this motorcycle and even found like minded friends who would take me on memorable adventures. Despite a couple of incidents, I kept the Karizma around simply because there was nothing like it. Sadly though. somewhere between work, higher studies and a new chapter in life, the Karizma had to go. It made way for the FZ-25, which never really grew on me. It was short on power, front suspension was didn’t inspire confidence, rear mono shock wasn’t tuned well and instrument cluster was too basic - all of which meant I bid goodbye to the FZ in June 2022.

Why the CB500X

The absence of a motorcycle meant I rented a couple of them for short rides. Also, a friend dropped off his KTM Duke 250 while he was out of Bangalore for a couple of months. Everything came together for the final push of buying a motorcycle. Since I was in no hurry, I took my time to understand what I wanted and in no particular order, here was my list - 

• At least 40HP

• Comfortable, all day riding capability

• Upright stance (I’m not getting any younger), so ADV styled motorcycle is preferred

• Fuss free maintenance

• Availability of accessories (India or abroad)

• Exclusivity

• Long term ownership - I don’t plan on selling this bike for at least 10 years

With this list in mind, I decided to take a few test rides. 

Options considered

Triumph Tiger 660 Sport

- Sweet sounding and punchy triple 

- Great ergonomics with wide handle bar and open chested riding posture

- Bluetooth connectivity (basic, but good enough for everyday use)

- Part quality and topnotch finish levels

- Accessory ecosystem - first and third party 

- At ~12.5L on-road Bangalore, I found it expensive for what the bike offered

- Tiny instrument cluster meant there was too much open space from the rider’s POV

- Poor heat management in the city. Without riding gear, this does not seem manageable in our weather (strictly my view). 

- Triumph’s questionable service and support

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

- Timeless design

- Torquey twin cylinder with characterful 270 degree firing order

- Excellent accessory ecosystem

- Excellent brakes

- Quality and finish levels not upto my expectations 

- Tube type tyres need after market solutions for hassle free ownership

- At >215 kg, it feels heavy even before adding accessories and luggage

- Flawed ergonomics

- Teething issues of RE ownership I have seen online

- Looks every bit a GS

- Quality and finish levels are excellent

- Aspirational BMW badge

- Great ergonomics for standing and regular riding

- Manageable weight

- Service interval of 16,000km or 1 year

- Not the most refined engine. Also, feels underpowered

- Basic instrument console (not a deal breaker for me, but had to mention the observation) 

- BMW’s limited service network (one station for all of Karnataka) and expensive ownership costs

KTM Adventure 390

- Punchy engine that loves to be thrashed around

- Build quality feels like it can take some abuse

- Robust electronics package and class leading TFT console

- Open chested ergonomics for comfortable all day riding 

- Affordable service and spares

- While build seems abuse friendly, finish levels are less than average in some places

- Little to no low end means city riding can be cumbersome

- Questionable reliability of KTMs

- Stiff ride 

- Not exclusive anymore

KTM Duke 390

Though not an adventure styled bike, I couldn’t overlook this motorcycle. I walked away so impressed that I almost made up my mind to get it over the Adventure 390. That rev friendly 390cc engine is best suited in the naked form factor and road biased 17-inch Metzeler tires are what this chassis is meant to accommodate. 

I must say, the KTM twins came very close to getting my final vote. However, on a casual Sunday afternoon browsing of Team BHP classified, everything changed when I saw a fellow BHPian’s CB500X listing. I had not considered buying a used motorcycle, but my conversations with the owner and Ayush (Honda Bigwing) convinced me to consider it. Not to mention, it was tastefully accessorised, so it needed little work to suit my requirements. 

Honda CB500X (2021)

Note: In between all these test rides, I had tried the CB500X (2021 model) at Honda Bigwing (Lavelle Road) - one of the few places with a test ride bike around and walked away impressed.

- Excellent part quality and finish

- Torquey, smooth twin cylinder engine combined with slick, precise gearbox

- Excellent ergonomics

- Excellent weight management

- Proven reliability worldwide

- Honda’s fuss free ownership experience

- Exclusive

- Availability - 2022 model was not launched in India

- Effectiveness of single front disc was not proven in my test rides

- Zero electronics (no traction control, connectivity features, switchable ABS, etc.,). Might be a deal breaker for some, but didn’t bother me. I was looking for a simple, well engineered machine. 

- Fork dive under medium-hard braking (read more in Ride and Handling section)

- Headlamp only good as DRL and not useful for low light riding

- Pricey, anyway you look at it

Design and Build

The CB500X has a successor in 2024, but I think the 2019-2022 models still look fresh and relevant. Layered bodywork, tidy taillight design, decent sized windscreen, neatly tucked wiring, all add up to a motorcycle that looks and feels premium. It’s more substantial in person than photographs would suggest, so please check it at a showroom nearby before concluding. 

This particular bike was the 4th one to be delivered in India and oozes the quality Honda is known for. The ‘Grand Prix’ red suits this bike very well, although I’m divided about that like stickering running across the fuel tank. There are no creaks or rattles anywhere - this is one well put together machine.

I did not want to create a separate section for the console, so including it here. The CB500X’s console is a basic LCD display showing just enough information without too much distraction. I prefer the simple layout and don’t see it as a strong enough reason to mention as pro/con, but I understand there would be higher expectations.

These have not grown on me

Honda sells off (mild) road dreams, but overlooks bash plate. The polished twin exhaust pipes look classy though. 

The red paint of the subframe looks great. Reminds me of the Multistrada.

Fan of the taillight design

Neatly tucked away wiring

These grab rails are India specific. Notice the two holes to accommodate mandatory saree guard (duly removed).

Mirrors do the job just fine - even at relatively high speeds

Basic looking instrument console displays all necessary information, but interface could have been better. Also seen here is Speedo Angels screen protector (matte finish) to help with readability.

Odd placement of horn switch takes getting used to

Engine and Performance 

The CB500X has a little over 47HP, so maintaining speeds of >120km/h is easy. I have done ~8,000 kms in the last 10 months of ownership and not a single time have I felt that the bike lacked power. From highways to twisty roads, power and torque curves and well suited for all day riding, as well as office commutes. Fueling is spot on and never felt the need for a Fuel X or free flow air filter. I have not done two up riding with luggage (not my use case so far or in the foreseeable future), so factor that in while you try out your next motorcycle. 

Fun fact - the engine temperature gauge has never gone past the 50% mark (zero heat directed to legs). Also, fan noise is minimal - unlike the KTM or Tiger 660. 

Ride and Handling 

The CB500X (and the more recent NX500) are derived from Honda’s 500cc road focused platforms. Honda’s claim of long travel suspension and (aspirational) adventure oriented marketing make it look great on paper. However, I find the rear to be a little too soft and wallowy at high speeds - adjusting preload when traveling with luggage helps, but still, there’s no getting around the softer setup Honda has gone for. 

One of the first things I was taught while riding my bicycle was - look where you want to go and you will gather all the elements required to do it. The CB500X is great for such riding - it’s a simple chassis setup, but there’s engineering wizardry in there somewhere that’s letting you go where you look. Shiv had adjustable coil springs from YSS installed on this Honda, so the fork dive is minimal. One con knocked off the list. 

Upgraded YSS springs are of excellent quality and provide much needed adjustability

Single front disc gets the job done, although I would appreciate more feel

Concluding thoughts

On paper, the CB500X appears to be a very basic motorcycle - no exotic materials, old-school suspension, only 47PS of power, no electronics, etc., However, ride it well and you will understand how throughly Honda has engineered this motorcycle. With a few modifications, it is the ideal ‘one bike’ garage for many - easy enough to use everyday, yet exotic enough to make you look back each time you park the motorcycle.

The CB500X is definitely an expensive motorcycle to own and maintain. So far, I have not had any issues with availability of spares or accessories, but they are on the premium end of the spectrum, so be sure of what you are getting into. 

There is no perfect motorcycle, so knowing what you value is important. Watching hours of videos on YouTube and/or reading ownership experiences is great, but you should definitely get a test ride, decide what is important for you. Figure out how long you plan on keeping the bike, what you will do with it, how much weightage do you give to each aspect of a machine, etc., I have answered these questions to myself and don’t regret buying the CB500X. 

Some questions I see coming my way - 

Should I have waited for the Triumph 400 twins? 

The Speed and Scrambler 400 were announced a couple of days after I made token payment for the CB500X. At the time, I had doubts of getting the first batch of vehicles and Triumph’s service (though Bajaj is expected to correct it). That said, I tried out the Speed 400 a couple of times and walked away impressed with few aspects of the bike, but it’s not a holistic package like the CB500X is (at least for me). I’m told the Scrambler 400X is a more versatile motorcycle, but I’m doubtful it will make me sell the CB500X. 

What about the new Himalayan?

At the time of purchase, the new Himalayan was only seen in spy shots and RE had not officially announced anything. Seeing many positive reviews, I am tempted to rent and ride it for a couple of days before commenting on it. Even if I walk away impressed, I don’t plan on selling the CB500X anytime soon (probably never?). 

How is the service?

The CB500X is serviced at Honda’s Bigwing service centres and so far the experience has been great. Service managers are prompt, transparent and mechanics are competent. Service interval is every six months or 6,000 kms - which is not per modern standards, but I’ve seen this across other Japanese manufacturers. The two services I’ve got done so far have cost me about INR 16,000 - which is within acceptable limits for a premium bike. 

The first owner spared no expense in kitting out this bike and I’ve had to add very little to make it more suitable for my requirements. 

Pro spec ‘Easy Ride’ wind screen deflector

Metzeler Tourance tyres

Honda 12V charging socket

Pyramid plastics front mud guard extender

Barkbusters handguards - look great and very functional

Grip puppies

30mm risers - SW Motech

National Cycle Extreme Adventure Side Guard

Maddog Alpha lights (a blessing for low light riding)

Givi Side Stand Enlarger and Honda centre stand

Evo footrest kit - SW Motech

Universal tank pad - SW Motech

Scottoiler V system for hassle free chain maintenance

Rides so far (from Bangalore) -

•August 2023 - Wayanad (solo)

•October 2023 - Sakleshpura (Honda group ride)

•November 2023 - Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi

•December 2023 - Gokarna

•January 2023 - Goa

•April 2023 - Theni, Dimbham ghat, Satyamangalam (solo)

My riding gear bought over the years -

•Helmet - MT Mugello V12 Airstream with Sena 5S

•Gloves - Holeshot (Viaterra), Rynox Stealth Evo 3, Rynox Dry Ice

•Jacket - Rynox Air GT3

•Pants - Rynox Advento, Levi’s X RE Motorcycle jeans (city)

•Boots - RE City boots, RE Short Riding Boot (E-39)

•Luggage - Viaterra Claw (72L), Givi Dry bag (30L), Viaterra Pod (12L), Btwin cycle carrier at the handlebar

I plan on keeping this thread updated, so feel free to drop your questions, comments.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights & information.

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Long-term Review: Tata Hexa at 1,00,000 Kms

Tata Hexa first entered the Indian market back in 2017. Launched as the flagship model of the Tata's line-up, the SUV was discontinued earlier this year due to the implementation of the new BSVI emission norms. The good news is that Tata will replace this model with the new Hexa Safari Edition which is expected to be launched by the end of this year. Recently, a Youtuber has made a long-term review video of the Tata Hexa with the owner of the car.

Tata Hexa Long Term Review

The Tata Hexa in question has clocked the total driven distance of over 1,00,000 kms in just about two years. According to the owner of this Hexa, he has been using this car for his daily drive ever since he bought it. Usually, it takes at least four or five years for an average driver to reach 1 lakh kms mark on the odometer. However, the owner of the Hexa we have in the video here has certainly managed to cover a lot of distance in a relatively shorter span of time. 

Upcoming Tata Hexa Safari Edition 2020: All Highlights Of the Revived Nameplate

To start off, the owner has listed out some mentionable strength of the Tata Hexa. He has shared that he always fancied a Tata car. He also confirmed that he has liked the Hexa right from the first test drive. Later, he chose to purchase the XM variant which is a mid-range model. The mid-spec XM is not fully loaded with all bells and whistles as on the top-spec model. Of course, if compared it to the newer models in the current market, it is quite under-equipped. However, it still comes with a decent number of comfort goodies that ensure a pleasant driving experience.

The highlight of the Tata Hexa is not the comfort driving. Instead, it is known better for powerful performance. Moreover, Tata Hexa comes with an AWD option. It’s a shame that the MPV did not receive its well-deserved attention.

Tata Hexa is powered by a BSIV 2.2-litre Varicor diesel engine which generates a top power of 155 PS and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. For the base XE variant, this engine came in a lower state of tune, 150 PS and 320 Nm. The gearbox options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. This engine’s torque is the best in the segment. The high torque, added with the AWD system, becomes extremely useful when it comes to the off-roading. The off-road capabilities of the Tata Hexa have also been testified by the owner. He also notes that even though the car has passed the 1 lakh kilometre mark, it still keeps a decent fuel economy of 16 kmpl, for both city and highway driving.

DO YOU KNOW - India-made Tata Hexa is the Official Car of Bangladesh Army

Moreover, he also sings the praise for the ride and handling quality of the Tata Hexa. According to him, compared to another Mahindra Scorpio that he had, this Hexa does a much better job in this aspect. About the interior experience, the owner claims that the cabin of the Hexa is spacious and comfortable. Notably, in the second row, there are two captain seats which we usually find on cars from the above segment. As a long-time user of the car, the owner also gives a compliment for the build quality of the Tata Hexa. On the downside, the owner points out that the long wheelbase and the ladder frame chassis of the car could be a hassle sometime. Moreover, he also shows disappointment at the week headlights..