Tata Motors has officially confirmed the launch timeline for the petrol powered Tata Harrier and Tata Safari, marking one of the most important powertrain updates in the Indian SUV market. This confirmation comes from multiple automotive industry sources and aligns with Tata long term strategy to offer a complete range of engine choices in its flagship SUVs.
This development carries significant weight because the Harrier and Safari have been sold only with a diesel engine since their introduction. With rising interest in petrol SUVs and changing customer preferences in metro cities, the timing of this launch fits well with current market trends.
Proven Details Backed by Industry Reports
Tata will equip both SUVs with its new 1.5 litre T GDI turbo petrol engine. The company showcased this engine at the 2023 Auto Expo, and engineers have been refining it for production readiness since then. According to publicly available specifications and industry reporting, the engine is expected to deliver close to 170 PS and 280 Nm, numbers that place it among the stronger petrol units in this segment.
This positions it directly against established rivals that already offer petrol options. Model information for competitors such as MG Hector and Hyundai Alcazar is available on official manufacturer websites, which confirms that strong turbo petrol engines are becoming increasingly common in premium SUV categories.
Why This Move Matters for Indian Buyers
The addition of a petrol option is an important step for several reasons
- Petrol engines are known for smoother and quieter operation
• Many urban buyers prefer petrol powertrains due to lower noise and better refinement
• Petrol variants often come with a lower starting price
• Customers in cities with stricter diesel regulations will find this option more practical
With these advantages, the petrol Harrier and Safari are expected to attract a wider audience and improve Tata competitiveness in rapidly growing markets.
Technical Understanding Based on Verified Sources
The outgoing diesel engine will continue in the lineup. It is a two litre unit sourced from Stellantis, and it has already proven itself in multiple models globally. By retaining this engine alongside the new petrol option, Tata is providing buyers with more flexibility rather than replacing an existing and trusted powertrain.
Reports published by respected automotive platforms including ZigWheels confirm that development work on the petrol variants is complete and that internal testing has already been underway for months. Spy images circulating online further support this timeline.
Expected Variant Lineup and Launch Plan
Since both the Harrier and Safari recently received major styling updates along with ADAS features and redesigned interiors, the new petrol versions are expected to follow the same variant structure. This means buyers can expect a familiar feature list with the only major change being the new powertrain.
More details regarding pricing and exact variant distribution will be announced closer to the official launch. Based on industry patterns, the petrol variants are likely to be positioned below the diesel range, which would make them more accessible to a wider section of buyers.
Market Impact and Customer Confidence
Tata Motors entering the petrol SUV space with its flagship models shows a clear understanding of customer demand shifts. Buyers today look for refinement, lower ownership costs, and flexibility in powertrain choices. The new engine gives Tata the opportunity to compete more effectively with established players like Mahindra, MG, Hyundai, and others.
Customers can also expect the same safety focus that the Harrier and Safari have become known for. Tata is one of the most consistent brands in India when it comes to structural safety and crash protection. This strengthens confidence in the upcoming petrol versions as well.
The confirmation of the petrol powered Tata Harrier and Tata Safari is not just another update. It represents the expansion of Tata SUV strategy and addresses a gap that has existed for years. With verified engine details, independent reporting, and strong market relevance, the upcoming launch is set to reshape the premium SUV category.
More official information will be shared by Tata Motors in the coming months. Until then, the confirmation itself marks a major milestone that buyers and industry experts have been waiting for.
