5.0 Exterior | 5.0 Comfort | 4.0 Performance |
4.0 Fuel Economy | 4.0 Value for Money |
Exterior Safari Storme has quite a presence on road and in parking lots - even in the company of cars which cost twice the amount. The front design is impressive and always draws favarable comments. Placing the spare wheel below was indeed a good idea.
Interior (Features, Space & Comfort) Very spacious cabin and excellent comfortable ride. We have covered more than 700kms in one day (for several days) in roads that were not all that good - and still did not feel fatigued. Driving position is very good and low window line gives excellent views of scenary outside. We kept the original music system but upgraded the speakers(10 Hellix speakers/tweeters). So, now the music quality is fabulous. Aircon is really very good and takes care of such a large volume admirably.
Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox Engine is responsive and while cruising at 120kms/hr, we could easily reach 140kms+ to overtake other cars. What is impressive is that while making 145kms/hr we felt as if we were cruising at 100kms/hr. The Storme does not lose it's composure and feels 'planted' at all times. We achieved 13kms/ltr on highway. Long gears allow easy driving and one does not get tired at all. Internal lighting and electrical charging points for each row is very thoughtfull and efficient.
Ride Quality & Handling Storme rides over all surfaces with confidence protecting the passengers. I have had long trips in Fortuner, Endeavor, Innova, Captiva and Scorpio. Storme's ride is definitely more comfortable than any one of these. Handling is very nimble.
Headlights illuminate the roads very well. There is one aspect of Storme that most reviews have missed out. Storme has very reassuring brakes. Fitting discs brakes for all four wheels was an excellent idea. Which other SUV/car is fitted similarly I do not know. With these and ABS+EBD Storme feels safe and 'under control' at any speed. We had to brake urgently at 130Kms and we did not experience any drama. I have tried this tough SUV on very rough roads and even where there are no roads repeatedly. The vehical has not failed me.
Final Words I definitely think Tata has created a winner and priced the Storme very well. The cabin is well insulated from outside noise or engine noise. Tata's own agency Concorde Motors in Pune offered excellent service back up. I pray that Indians start respecting our own products - if they do, they will be amply rewarded like me.
Areas of improvement Plastic quality is much improved but I think that the fitting of plastic panels can be improved upon. Engine/turbo charger vine within the cabin could be reduced.
Second row doors could have larger space for keeping water bottles. Tata should offer wide range of usefull 'Optional extras' like bull bars, overhead luggage carriers, winches, etc.
Styling, very nimble handling, excellent brakes, good long gears, excellent airconFittings of plastic panels in interior should be improved.