When it comes to discussing cricketing legends, Virat Kohli needs no introduction. The former Indian cricket team captain and one of India’s most prominent batsmen is also known for his love for luxury cars. Currently serving as the brand ambassador of Audi in India, Virat Kohli has owned a variety of luxury sedans, SUVs, and sports cars. However, in a revealing interview, he shared an interesting backstory behind his first car.
During an interview with Star Sports, Virat Kohli was asked about the first car he purchased after achieving success in cricket. He revealed that his first car was a Tata Safari. Specifically, he bought a Tata Safari Dicor, which was a ladder-on-frame SUV, unlike the currently available monocoque Safari.
Why Virat chose Safari?
When questioned about why he chose the Tata Safari as his first car, Virat explained that its mighty road presence was the primary reason. He and his brother had decided to buy a Tata Safari as their first car because they were highly impressed by the SUV’s masculine appeal.
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According to Virat, the ladder-on-frame Safari exuded a butch road presence that commanded authority on the road, making other motorists yield way to it. While the Safari also offered comfortable and spacious interiors, it was the SUV’s road presence that captivated him the most.
The previous-generation Tata Safari holds a significant place in the history of Tata Motors. Originally introduced in the late ’90s, the Tata Safari emerged as a premium seven-seater SUV, differentiating itself from other Tata offerings like the Sumo and Sierra. This version of the Safari remained on sale for nearly two decades, receiving a notable midlife update with a new engine that added the ‘Dicor’ suffix to its name.
After a few years, Tata Motors further updated the Safari, introducing significant changes to its front and rear profiles, along with new cabin features. This version also received a substantial performance upgrade and remained available until it was eventually replaced by an all-new Safari, based on the monocoque frame of the Harrier.
Kohli owns two Bentleys
The Indian cricket team captain possesses two luxurious Bentley cars, one being a white Continental GT located in Delhi, and the other, a Flying Spur, stationed in Mumbai. Both of these high-end vehicles come with a hefty price tag of over Rs. 3 crore.
The first Bentley, a Continental GT, is based in Delhi. However, after tying the knot and moving to Mumbai, Virat acquired a second Bentley for the city. Interestingly, he has been spotted with his spouse, Anushka Sharma, driving around in the same car. The Flying Spur’s price ranges from Rs. 3.41 crore to Rs. 3.93 crores. It is equipped with the powerful 4.0-litre V8 engine, capable of producing a maximum output of 500 Bhp and 660 Nm. Additionally, there is a more potent 6.0-litre W12 engine variant, generating an impressive 616 Bhp and 800 Nm of torque.
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