Tata Motors is readying petrol versions of its best-selling Harrier and Safari SUVs, aiming for a launch in India by the close of 2025-26. Adding these cleaner, quieter engines broadens Tata’s SUV lineup and reflects its effort to keep pace with customers who now often prefer petrol power over diesel.
Until this upgrade, buyers could only order these models with a diesel drivetrain, but tougher emissions rules and stiff competition have pushed the carmaker to fill that void with smooth, potent petrol options.
Quick Specs Table – Tata Harrier & Safari Petrol (Rumoured)
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L TGDi petrol turbo |
| Power Output | 168–170 PS |
| Torque | 280 Nm |
| Gearbox Options | 6-speed manual, 7-speed DCT |
| Emission Compliance | BS6 Phase 2, E20-ready |
| Expected Launch | Q4 FY25-26 (March 2026) |
| Estimated Price | ₹14.5 to ₹26 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Fuel Efficiency | Roughly 15–18 km/l |
| Seating | Harrier five, Safari seven |
| Main Rivals | Hyundai Creta, MG Hector, XUV700 |
SRC- V3Cars
1. Tata’s New 1.5-Liter TGDi Turbo Petrol Engine
Both the Harrier petrol and Safari petrol will draw power from Tata’s fresh 1.5-liter TGDi turbo gasoline direct-injection unit, first revealed at the recent Auto Expo. Intended to deliver spirited performance while still sipping fuel conservatively, the engine is a key part of the brands bid to widen its appeal in a rapidly changing market.
Key Specs:
- Engine: 1.5-litre turbo petrol
- Power Rating: 168-170 PS
- Peak Torque: 280 Nm
- Transmission Choices: 6-speed manual / 7-speed dual-clutch
Compared to the diesel, this petrol unit should deliver a calmer ride, quicker throttle, and less engine clatter, making everyday driving feel less gruff.
Also Read 2025 Yezdi Adventure Review
2. Why Tata Is Introducing Petrol Variants Now
Tata Motors is rolling out petrol SUVs in India for a handful of reasons:
- Customers want cleaner, punchier engines that feel lighter on the throttle
- Petrol and diesel prices are nearly level at many pumps these days
- BS6 Phase 2 rules hike diesel running costs and maintenance worries
- Rivals such as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and MG Hector already offer popular petrol choices
With its new Harrier petrol, Tata hopes to win buyers shying away from diesel because of steep service bills or tight city emission rules.
3. Tata Harrier and Safari Petrol Launch Date
Tata has officially stated the Harrier and Safari petrol models will hit showrooms before the close of the 2025-26 financial year, so an arrival around February or March 2026 looks likely.
This rollout comes after the Harrier EV, which hit showrooms in mid-2025, and before the launch of the Tata Sierra ICE and electric versions slated for FY26.
4. Performance vs Diesel: What’s Different?
The Harrier and Safari diesels rely on a 2.0-liter Kryotec engine that puts out 170 PS and 350 Nm. The new petrol unit carries a smaller 1.5-liter TGDi, delivering similar power but less peak torque.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Diesel (2.0L) | Petrol (1.5L TGDi) | |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 170 PS | 168–170 PS |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Transmission | 6MT / 6AT | 6MT / 7-speed DCT |
| NVH Levels | Higher | Lower |
| Price (Estimated) | ₹15–27 Lakh | ₹1 Lakh less (est.) |
Because the petrol variants should open at roughly Rs 1 lakh below their diesel counterparts, they are likely to catch the eye of city dwellers and first-time SUV buyers.
5. Exterior and Interior – Any Changes?
Both the Harrier and Safari petrol versions will probably wear the 2023 facelift unchanged, aside from a badge update or trim tweak to mark the new engine option.
Inside both SUVs you’ll still find:
- a big 12.3-inch infotainment screen
- a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- ventilated front seats
- a powered driver seat with memory
- JBL sound system (Safari only)
- dual-zone climate control
- ADAS Level 2 safety aids
Simply put, all the creature comforts and clever tech that went into the diesel versions will also slip into the new petrol trims.
6. Tata’s Bigger SUV Game Plan for FY 2025-26
Tata is placing a bold bet on premium SUVs for FY26. Look at what’s coming:
- Tata Harrier Petrol – by March 2026
- Tata Safari Petrol – by March 2026
- Harrier EV – already launched in June 2025
- Tata Sierra ICE and EV – expected later in FY26
This slate of models proves Tata wants to lead both ICE and electric SUV sales in India.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower starting price than diesel | Less torque than diesel |
| Smoother, quieter day-to-day drive | Unknown mileage in real-world use |
| Broader gearbox choice, DCT included | May lack diesel model’s brute pull |
| Better suited for busy urban streets | Launch now pushed to late FY26 |
FAQs – Tata Harrier & Safari Petrol Launch
Q. When will the petrol Harrier and Safari debut in India?
Expect March 2026, part of Tata FY25-26 plan.
Q. Which engine powers the petrol Harrier and Safari?
A fresh 1.5L TGDi turbo unit with around 168–170 PS.
Q. Will the petrol models cost less than the diesel?
Yes, prices should start roughly 1 lakh lower than diesel variants.
Q. Are there any changes in design or interiors?
No major changes. The new petrol models will keep the same looks, cabin layout, and kit seen in the facelifted diesel versions.
Q. Which transmission options will be available?
Tata is likely to pair the engine with a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) gearbox.
Q. How is Tata positioning these SUVs in the market?
The petrol Harrier and Safari will target city dwellers who want smooth, quiet power and lower running costs than diesel.
Final Thoughts
By adding petrol variants of the Harrier and Safari, Tata Motors is clearly broadening its appeal. The new models will reach buyers who steered clear of diesel and give Tata a stronger foothold against rivals that sell petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines.
So if you want a refined, punchy, well-equipped SUV in 2026 and prefer petrol, keep these launches on your radar.
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