Off-road vehicle design changes fast, but few releases generate as much industry discussion as the new Safari model. Built for drivers who demand rugged performance without sacrificing everyday road comfort, this vehicle merges traditional four-wheel utility with modern engineering. Whether you're planning remote trail excursions or daily highway commutes, understanding what sets this generation apart helps you decide if it fits your garage.
The vehicle arrives with notable upgrades in suspension travel, drivetrain flexibility, and cabin architecture. Automotive engineers designed the chassis to handle severe terrain while keeping cabin noise low. If you're comparing utility sport vehicles for your next outdoor project, let's break down the exact specifications, engine choices, and practical trade-offs you need to know.
Engineering and Drivetrain Architecture
Underneath the exterior sheet metal, the new Safari model relies on a high-strength steel ladder frame paired with an independent front suspension and a solid rear axle. This setup balances high articulation on uneven ground with stable high-speed tracking on paved highways.
Power distribution is handled by a permanent four-wheel-drive system featuring an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case. Drivers can switch between high and low ranges depending on surface traction. The limited-slip rear differential reacts instantly to wheel slip, routing torque to the wheel with the most grip before traction control systems even engage.
Approach and departure angles have also been optimized. With a factory ground clearance of 9.2 inches, the vehicle clears rocks and fallen timber without scraping the underbody protection plates. For official vehicle safety standards and testing protocols, you can consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Engine Options and Performance
Different drivers need different power profiles. The manufacturer offers three distinct engine configurations for this generation, each tailored to specific workload demands.
- 2.0-Liter Inline-Four: Producing 208 horsepower and 369 Nm of torque, this base engine uses a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver power low in the rev range. It's built for fuel economy and light trail work.
- 2.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four: Stepping up to 270 horsepower and 445 Nm of torque gives you quicker passing power on highways and easier momentum maintenance on steep sand or mud inclines.
- 3.0-Liter V6: The top-tier option pushes out 340 horsepower and 540 Nm of torque. It's built for heavy towing and aggressive rock crawling where sustained low-end torque matters most.
Fuel economy figures vary by engine choice. The base 2.0-liter averages around 24 miles per gallon combined, while the V6 drops closer to 18 miles per gallon under mixed driving conditions.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Rugged capability doesn't mean a Spartan cabin. Inside, the new Safari model uses durable, cleanable synthetic leather surfaces and rubberized floor mats designed to resist mud, sand, and moisture. Cargo capacity measures 38 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 74 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.
The dashboard centers around a 12.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen running an interface compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical toggle switches remain for core climate and drive-mode controls, ensuring you can operate them easily while wearing gloves or driving over rough terrain.
For navigation in remote areas without cellular coverage, the infotainment system includes offline topographic map storage. USB-C charging ports are located in all three seating rows, keeping devices powered during long overland trips.
Practical Considerations and Common Mistakes
Buying a specialized adventure vehicle requires careful planning. Buyers often run into a few common pitfalls during the purchasing and setup process:
- Overestimating Daily Fuel Costs: Choosing the high-output V6 sounds appealing for weekend trips, but commuting 40 miles a day with it significantly increases monthly fuel expenses. Match the engine to your actual weekday driving habits.
- Ignoring Payload Limits: While the vehicle tows up to 6,000 pounds, loading the roof rack with heavy gear affects the center of gravity. Always verify your total cargo weight against the manufacturer door placard.
- Skipping Suspension Break-In: Factory leaf and coil springs settle during the first 1,000 miles. Don't load maximum weight onto a brand-new suspension system immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the base starting price for the new Safari model?
Pricing begins at approximately $40,000 for the base trim with the 2.0-liter engine. Fully optioned V6 models with premium off-road packages can exceed $55,000 depending on your region.
Does the vehicle require premium fuel?
The 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter engines run efficiently on regular 87-octane gasoline. However, the high-output 3.0-liter V6 performs best on premium 91-octane fuel to prevent engine knock under heavy loads.
Can the factory tires handle deep snow and mud?
The vehicle ships with all-season highway-terrain tires adequate for light rain and gravel. If you plan to drive through deep mud, sand, or winter snow, swapping them for dedicated all-terrain or winter tires is recommended.
How does the warranty cover off-road use?
The standard factory warranty covers powertrain components for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Standard off-road driving on legal forest service roads and trails is covered, though competitive racing or intentional structural abuse voids the agreement.
