Tata Harrier and Safari to get petrol engine next year

Alongside the announcement of the prices for the all-new, heavily updated versions of the Harrier and Safari, Tata Motors also confirmed their plans to introduce petrol-powered variants of these two SUVs in the upcoming months. During a media interaction following the launch of the new Harrier and Safari, Tata Motors’ officials confirmed that these SUVs would be equipped with a petrol engine option, expected to be available in 2024.

At Auto Expo 2023, Tata Motors unveiled a brand-new 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine for the first time. In its most powerful configuration, this engine can deliver a maximum power output of 170 PS and a peak torque output of 280 Nm. Given the size and positioning of the Harrier and Safari in the Indian car market, this turbocharged petrol engine appears to be a suitable choice for both SUVs.

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Another turbocharged petrol engine in Tata Motors’ lineup is the 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine, delivering 120 PS of power, which currently powers the Nexon. However, this engine may prove underpowered for the Harrier and Safari. The introduction of a petrol engine option for Tata Harrier and Safari is a logical step since their direct competitors – Mahindra Scorpio-N, Mahindra XUV700, MG Hector, and Hyundai Alcazar – all offer petrol engine options. Even smaller midsize SUVs like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, Honda Elevate, and Citroen C3 Aircross are available with petrol engine options.

Only diesel engine options only available now

Currently, the extensively updated Tata Harrier and Safari retain their 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine from the previous models, serving as the sole powertrain option. Sourced from Fiat, this diesel engine is offered with both 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission choices and boasts a maximum power output of 170 PS and a maximum torque output of 350 Nm. This engine is also found in the MG Hector with a 6-speed manual and the Jeep Compass with a 6-speed manual and 9-speed automatic transmission.

Until the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine from Tata Motors becomes available, the updated Harrier and Safari will remain equipped with the 2.0-litre diesel engine as the sole powertrain option. Both SUVs have been introduced with exterior design enhancements, new cabin layouts, additional features, and new color options. The Harrier and Safari were launched with initial prices of Rs 15.49 lakh and Rs 16.19 lakh, respectively, with potential price increases in the coming weeks.

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