Tata Motors is set to unleash a new era for its popular Harrier and Safari SUVs. By March 2026, both the 5-seater Harrier and its 7-seater sibling, the Safari, will debut with an all-new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, giving customers a powerful and much-anticipated alternative to the existing diesel-only lineup.
This strategic move comes as Tata Motors looks to capture a larger slice of the burgeoning petrol SUV market. While the 2.0-liter Kryotec diesel engine has served them well, the demand for petrol options in the mid-size and full-size SUV segments has surged, prompting this significant update. It’s a clear signal from Tata that they’re ready to take on rivals like the Mahindra XUV700 and Hyundai Alcazar with renewed vigor.
Under the Hood: What to Expect from the New Engine
First glimpsed at Auto Expo 2023, this 1.5-litre TGDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection) petrol engine is a testament to Tata’s commitment to in-house innovation. Part of their “Hyperion” powertrain family, it’s designed for a blend of performance and efficiency:
* Punchy Performance: Expect a robust 170 PS (168 bhp) of power and a healthy 280 Nm of peak torque. This kind of output promises a lively and responsive driving experience, whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.
* Transmission Choices: Drivers will likely have the option of a 6-speed manual gearbox for those who prefer full control, or a sophisticated 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) for seamless and quick shifts.
* Future-Ready: This engine isn’t just powerful; it’s also compliant with the latest BS6 Phase II emission norms and is ready for E20 fuel, aligning with India’s push towards cleaner mobility.
* Competitive Pricing: As an indigenously developed engine, it’s anticipated that the petrol variants of the Harrier and Safari could offer a more attractive price point compared to their diesel counterparts, potentially making these popular SUVs even more accessible.
Beyond the Powertrain: A Complete Package
Even without the new petrol engine, both the Harrier and Safari recently received significant facelifts, bringing them squarely into the modern age. The upcoming petrol variants will naturally benefit from these enhancements:
* Striking Design: Both SUVs boast a bolder, more muscular aesthetic, featuring distinctive connected LED DRLs, sharp projector headlamps, and sleek connected LED tail lamps that make a strong statement on the road.
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* Luxurious & Tech-Loaded Interiors: Step inside, and you’ll find an upgraded cabin with a large touchscreen infotainment system, a crisp digital instrument cluster, enhanced connectivity with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and potentially premium touches like ventilated seats.
* Top-Tier Safety: The Harrier and Safari already hold an impressive 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, and the petrol versions will continue this commitment with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
The introduction of the 1.5L turbo petrol engine is a game-changer for Tata Motors. It addresses a long-standing demand, adds crucial versatility to their SUV lineup, and positions the Harrier and Safari to compete more aggressively in the Indian market. With the launch just around the corner, excitement is building for these refined and more accessible iterations of Tata’s flagship SUVs.