Indian automaker Tata Motors has confirmed that petrol versions of its popular SUVs — the Harrier and Safari — will be launched on 9 December 2025.
These models mark a significant shift, especially since both the Harrier and Safari have so far been offered primarily with diesel powertrains in the Indian market.
What’s New Under the Hood
The petrol versions will be powered by Tata’s all-new 1.5-litre turbocharged, direct-injection (T-GDI) petrol engine from the company’s “Hyperion” engine family. Here are the expected performance details:
- Power: ~170 PS (or around 168 bhp) at ~5,000 rpm.
- Torque: ~280 Nm in the 2,000 – 3,500 rpm range.
- Transmission: It is expected to be offered with both manual and automatic gearbox options; the exact automatic type (torque-converter vs dual-clutch) is not yet confirmed.
- Engine debut: Although first showcased at the Auto Expo 2023, the engine will first appear in another model (the upcoming Sierra) before its debut in Harrier/Safari.
Why This Matters
- Filling a gap: Until now, both SUVs had only diesel options, whereas many rivals already offer petrol variants. The introduction of petrol powertrains opens these models to a broader set of buyers.
- Competitive positioning: With petrol engines, the Harrier and Safari will be better placed to take on rivals such as the MG Hector, Mahindra XUV700, Jeep Compass, and Hyundai Alcazar, many of which already offer petrol versions.
- Pricing advantage: Reports suggest that the petrol versions will be priced slightly lower than their diesel counterparts, making them a more accessible entry into the segment.
Pricing & Market Expectations
- Current diesel-powered pricing: The Harrier’s diesel variants have been priced roughly between ₹14 lakh and ₹25.25 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, whereas the Safari is in the ballpark of ₹14.66 lakh to ₹25.96 lakh.
- For the petrol variants, the expectation is for starting prices to be below those of the existing diesel models.
- No official petrol-variant pricing has yet been confirmed.
What to Watch For
- Transmission options: The choice of gearbox (manual, automatic, DCT, torque converter) could influence driving feel, refinement, and cost.
- Fuel efficiency & refinement: While petrol engines generally offer smoother and quieter operation compared to diesel, fuel efficiency numbers will be important in India, where running costs matter.
- Feature parity: Ensuring that the petrol versions maintain the same level of features, safety, and equipment as their diesel siblings (or better) will be crucial.
- Dealer/market availability: Given the December launch date, bookings, delivery timelines, and any introductory offers will be worth monitoring.
Summary
The December 9 launch of the petrol variants of the Tata Harrier and Safari represents a key move by Tata Motors to broaden the appeal of these flagship SUVs.
By introducing the new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with ~170 PS power and ~280 Nm torque, the brand may open up new buyers who prefer petrol engines, while offering potentially lower entry pricing. With strong competition in the mid-size SUV market, these petrol versions bring fresh and timely relevance to the Harrier and Safari line-up.