20th August 2025, Kathmandu
In a market increasingly defined by choice, Nepali consumers are faced with a significant decision when buying a new SUV: to go electric or stick with the tried-and-true internal combustion engine (ICE).
BYD Atto 3 Tata Safari
This choice is epitomized by two of the most popular vehicles in their respective segments: the all-electric BYD Atto 3 and the diesel-powered Tata Safari. While they both occupy the SUV space, their core philosophies, performance metrics, and ownership experiences are worlds apart. This comprehensive comparison will help potential buyers in Nepal navigate the differences and find the perfect vehicle for their needs.
Pricing and Market Position
The pricing strategies of these two SUVs reflect their distinct market positions. The BYD Atto 3, with its advanced electric technology and premium features, is priced from around Rs. 56.90 Lakhs for its entry-level variant, extending to Rs. 67.80 Lakhs for the top-end model. This places it in the higher echelons of the EV market in Nepal.
The Tata Safari offers a wider range of variants, with prices starting from approximately Rs. 1.22 Crore for the base model and going up for higher trims. This makes the electric Atto 3 a more budget-friendly option at the point of purchase, an inverse of the global trend.
Performance and Specifications
The driving experience of these two SUVs is vastly different. The BYD Atto 3 is powered by a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) that delivers 150 kW (approximately 201 bhp) and 310 Nm of instant torque. This allows for a quick acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds, providing a silent yet thrilling ride.
The absence of a gearbox and the immediate torque delivery make urban driving incredibly smooth. The Atto 3 is available with a 49.92 kWh or a 60.48 kWh Blade Battery, offering a WLTP-certified range of up to 420 km on a single charge.
The Tata Safari is equipped with a 2.0-liter Kryotec turbocharged diesel engine that produces 168 bhp and a robust 350 Nm of torque. The Safari’s performance is characterized by its linear power delivery and strong low-end torque, which is excellent for tackling steep inclines and carrying heavy loads.
Space, Practicality, and Dimensions
This is where the Tata Safari has a clear advantage for large families and commercial use. As a full-sized SUV, it measures 4668 mm in length, providing a spacious cabin with three rows of seating and a capacity for 6 or 7 passengers. Its boot space is a respectable 420 liters, which can be expanded by folding down the third row.
The BYD Atto 3 is a 5-seater compact SUV, measuring 4455 mm in length. While it may not have a third row, its cabin is remarkably spacious for five occupants. The boot space is a substantial 440 liters, which is slightly larger than the Safari’s with all seats up. The Atto 3’s ground clearance of 175 mm is more than sufficient for most city and highway driving.
Features and Technology
Both SUVs are loaded with technology, but their focus is different. The BYD Atto 3 is a tech marvel, boasting a futuristic cabin with its signature 12.8-inch intelligent rotating touchscreen infotainment system. It features an extensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree camera.
The Tata Safari offers a more traditional yet well-equipped interior. Recent updates have introduced features like a large touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 360-degree camera, and an electronic parking brake. The Safari’s appeal lies in its ruggedness and essential luxury features, rather than the futuristic gadgetry of the Atto 3.
Conclusion: Which SUV is for you?
The choice between the BYD Atto 3 and the Tata Safari is a matter of lifestyle, budget, and philosophy.
- Choose the Tata Safari if: You need a spacious 7-seater vehicle for a large family, prefer the reliability and established service network of a traditional diesel SUV, and frequently travel on rough terrain where its higher ground clearance and rugged build are essential.
- Choose the BYD Atto 3 if: You are ready to embrace the future of mobility, want to save on running costs with zero-emission technology, and prioritize a modern, tech-laden cabin. Its silent operation and quick acceleration make it an ideal vehicle for city driving, and its lower initial price point in Nepal makes it a more financially appealing choice for a compact SUV.
Both the BYD Atto 3 and the Tata Safari are excellent vehicles in their own right, but they serve different purposes. The Atto 3 is a testament to the rapid evolution of electric vehicles, while the Safari stands as a monument to the enduring appeal of a powerful, practical, and dependable diesel SUV.
For more: BYD Atto 3 Tata Safari