Tata to expand Harrier and Safari lineup with new turbo-petrol engine
Tata Motors is preparing to expand the powertrain options for the Harrier and Safari by introducing a new turbo-petrol engine, marking a significant shift for both SUVs that have so far been offered only with a diesel unit.
The upcoming petrol option is based on Tata’s new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, internally referred to as the Hyperion. This engine recently made its production debut in the new Sierra, where it showcased Tata’s latest developments in petrol powertrain technology.
The four-cylinder motor uses direct fuel injection and a variable geometry turbocharger. In its Sierra-spec tune, the engine produces 158 BHP and 255 Nm of torque. However, for application in the larger and heavier Harrier and Safari, Tata has revised the output to better suit their positioning and performance expectations.
In the Harrier and Safari, the 1.5L turbo-petrol engine is expected to deliver 168 BHP at 5000 RPM along with 280 Nm of torque spread between 1750 RPM and 3500 RPM. Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual gearbox as well as a 6-speed automatic, offering buyers greater flexibility compared to the current diesel-only lineup.
Variant availability will be extensive. The Harrier petrol range will span multiple trims, including Smart, Pure X, Adventure and Fearless X, along with Dark and Stealth editions across select variants. Similarly, the Safari petrol lineup will be offered in a wide range of trims, covering Smart, Pure, Adventure and Accomplished variants, with Dark, Stealth, Ultra and Red Dark editions also planned.
Tata Motors has not yet announced pricing for the petrol-powered Harrier and Safari. However, industry expectations suggest that the petrol variants will be positioned below their diesel counterparts, potentially making the SUVs more accessible to buyers who prioritise refinement and urban drivability over diesel efficiency.
With the addition of this new petrol engine, Tata aims to broaden the appeal of the Harrier and Safari, especially in markets where petrol SUVs continue to gain traction.
