Tata Motors has made a significant strategic move by launching petrol variants of the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari in India. Previously, both SUVs were available only with diesel engines, limiting their appeal to buyers seeking petrol options. With the introduction of a new 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine, Tata has expanded the market reach of the Harrier and Safari. Both petrol and diesel versions are now available for these popular SUVs.
Pricing Details
- Tata Harrier Petrol: Starts at Rs 12.89 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Tata Safari Petrol: Starts at Rs 13.29 lakh (ex-showroom)
This move not only enhances Tata’s SUV lineup but also makes the Harrier and Safari more competitive in the premium SUV segment, which is largely dominated by petrol-powered vehicles.
Market Impact and Launch Significance
The official launch of the Tata Harrier petrol and Tata Safari petrol in India in 2026 marks a pivotal moment for Tata Motors. With stricter emission norms, a growing preference for petrol vehicles in urban areas, and intensifying competition, Tata’s decision aligns perfectly with evolving customer needs. The brand now boasts one of the most diverse powertrain lineups in the segment, offering petrol, diesel, manual, and automatic options.
Engine Specifications: The New 1.5L Turbo-Petrol
At the core of this update is Tata’s new 1.5-liter T-GDI turbo-petrol engine, which will also power the upcoming Tata Sierra. This engine has been specifically tuned for the larger Harrier and Safari SUVs.
- Engine: 1.5-liter turbo-petrol with direct injection
- Power: 170 PS
- Torque: 280 Nm
- Transmission Options: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
- Claimed Top Speed: 216 km/h
While the diesel engine still offers higher torque, the petrol counterpart provides quicker revs, smoother performance, and a more engaging drive—especially attractive to city drivers and car enthusiasts.
Petrol vs. Diesel: Performance Comparison
| Feature | Petrol Engine | Diesel Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 170 PS | 170 PS |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Gearbox | 6MT / 6AT | 6MT / 6AT |
| Driving Character | Smooth and sporty | Powerful and efficient |
Tata has engineered the petrol engine for responsiveness and refinement, catering to buyers prioritizing performance and smoothness over sheer torque.
Variant and Pricing Breakdown
Tata Harrier Petrol
- Price Range: Rs 12.89 lakh to Rs 24.69 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Available Trims: Smart, Pure, Adventure, Fearless, Ultra (with higher trims also offering Dark and Red Dark editions)
Tata Safari Petrol
- Price Range: Rs 13.29 lakh to Rs 25.20 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Seating Configurations: 6- and 7-seater options
- Trims: Pure, Adventure, Accomplished, Ultra (including Dark and Red Dark editions)
New Features in Harrier and Safari Petrol
To keep the SUVs competitive, Tata has introduced several new features alongside the new engine.
Key Technology & Interior Features
- 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 10.25-inch fully digital driver display
- JBL sound system with Dolby Atmos
- Panoramic sunroof
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Powered and ventilated front seats
- Wireless phone charger
- 65W fast USB charging
- Digital IRVM
- Powered tailgate
- Ambient lighting
These enhancements significantly elevate cabin experience, making the Harrier and Safari among the most feature-rich SUVs in their segment.
Safety and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Safety remains a top priority for Tata SUVs, including the new petrol models.
Standard Safety Features
- 6 airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- 360-degree camera system
- All-wheel disc brakes
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
Advanced Safety (ADAS) Features
- Level 2 ADAS
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keeping assist
- Automatic emergency braking
- Traffic sign recognition
The Tata Harrier continues to boast a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, showcasing Tata’s commitment to safety excellence.
Interior and Exterior Updates
Interior Enhancements
- Harrier: Two-tone white and brown interior
- Safari: Premium white and gold cabin theme
- Both: Sliding front armrests
Exterior Updates
- New Nitro Crimson red color
- Return of Red Dark Editions
- Sportier accents for a dynamic look
Only top-end petrol variants are offered in the exclusive Red Dark editions.
Driving Experience and Fuel Efficiency
Tata’s diesel engines remain highly efficient:
- Harrier Diesel: 25.9 kmpl (claimed)
- Safari Diesel: 25 kmpl (claimed)
Petrol versions, meanwhile, prioritize refinement, smoother acceleration, and higher top speeds—making them ideal for city and highway driving.
Key Competitors
Tata Harrier Petrol Rivals
- MG Hector (Petrol)
- Jeep Compass (Petrol)
Tata Safari Petrol Rivals
- MG Hector Plus
- Hyundai Alcazar
- Mahindra XUV 7XO
With petrol powertrains, Tata can now compete directly with brands already offering petrol SUVs.
Expert Opinion
From a business standpoint, Tata’s move to introduce petrol versions of the Harrier and Safari is both smart and timely.
Why This Launch Matters
- Broadens the buyer base
- Appeals to urban petrol buyers
- Offers more choices without phasing out diesel
- Increases competition in the premium SUV segment
The Harrier and Safari petrol variants complete Tata’s offering for those who value design, safety, and features but prefer petrol engines.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of petrol-powered Tata Harrier and Tata Safari marks a major leap in Tata Motors’ SUV strategy. With a robust turbo-petrol engine, premium features, advanced safety, and competitive pricing, these models are now more versatile and appealing than ever. For buyers seeking a safe, feature-packed, and petrol-powered premium SUV in 2026 and beyond, the Harrier and Safari petrol variants are compelling choices.
FAQs
They were launched in India in 2026.
A 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine producing 170 PS.
Yes, both petrol and diesel options are offered.
Rs 12.89 lakh (ex-showroom).
Yes, Level 2 ADAS is available on higher trims.