Tata Motors is set to shake up the Indian SUV market with the much-anticipated launch of the petrol variants of the Tata Safari and Tata Harrier in November 2025. Known for their rugged build, commanding presence, and diesel-powered performance, both SUVs have carved a solid reputation in the premium SUV space. However, the lack of a petrol option has long been a missing piece — until now.
This exclusive update brings a breath of fresh air for petrol SUV enthusiasts and signals a bold move by Tata Motors to tap into a broader customer base in a market where petrol demand continues to rise.
Why Petrol Now?
The decision to introduce petrol-powered Safari and Harrier variants comes in response to changing customer preferences. Over the past few years, the Indian automobile market has witnessed a steady rise in demand for petrol engines, especially in the premium SUV category. Factors contributing to this trend include:
- Stricter emission norms pushing manufacturers to rethink diesel offerings.
- Increasing fuel price parity between petrol and diesel.
- Lower initial cost and maintenance of petrol engines.
- BS6 Phase 2 norms requiring more expensive tech for diesels.
With the upcoming petrol versions, Tata aims to make its flagship SUVs more accessible and versatile for urban buyers and long-distance cruisers alike.
Petrol Engine Details: What We Know So Far
Though official specifications are under wraps, industry insiders suggest that both the Tata Safari Petrol and Tata Harrier Petrol will be powered by a newly developed 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
Here’s a quick look at the expected specifications:
| Specification | Tata Harrier Petrol | Tata Safari Petrol |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 1.5L Turbo Petrol |
| Power Output (Expected) | 170-180 PS | 170-180 PS |
| Torque (Expected) | 250-260 Nm | 250-260 Nm |
| Transmission Options | 6-Speed MT / AT | 6-Speed MT / AT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Efficiency (Claimed) | ~15-16 km/l | ~14-15 km/l |
| Emission Norm | BS6 Phase 2 | BS6 Phase 2 |
This engine is reportedly being developed under Tata’s TGDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection) technology banner, promising a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and low emissions.
Design & Features: No Compromise Expected
The petrol variants of the Harrier and Safari are expected to carry forward the same exterior and interior designs as their diesel counterparts, which underwent a facelift in late 2023.
Key Exterior Highlights:
- Signature LED DRLs with dynamic turn indicators
- Bold new grille and redesigned bumpers
- 18-19 inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
- Sleek LED tail lamps with connecting light bar
- Dual-tone paint options and blacked-out roof
Premium Interior Features:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front and rear seats (Safari)
- JBL sound system with subwoofer
- Advanced voice commands and OTA updates
Buyers can expect all these features in the petrol trims, especially in the mid to top-tier variants. Tata is unlikely to cut corners simply based on the fuel type.
Safety: As Solid As Ever
Both the Harrier and Safari received 5-star Global NCAP safety ratings in their updated 2023 avatars. The same safety kit is expected to be carried over to the petrol variants.
Standard & Advanced Safety Features:
- 6 to 7 airbags
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Forward collision warning
- Autonomous emergency braking
- 360-degree camera with blind spot monitoring
- ESP, Hill Hold Control, Traction Control
- All-wheel disc brakes
Tata’s focus on safety has been a major draw for Indian SUV buyers, and the petrol Harrier and Safari will continue that legacy.
Variants & Pricing Expectations
Tata is expected to offer the petrol Harrier and Safari in multiple variants to suit a range of budgets. While the complete variant lineup will be confirmed closer to launch, we anticipate the following trims:
Expected Trims:
- Smart
- Pure
- Adventure
- Fearless
- Dark Editions (Later)
Expected Price Range:
| Model | Starting Price (Ex-showroom) | Top Variant Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Tata Harrier Petrol | ₹15.00 lakh | ₹21.00 lakh |
| Tata Safari Petrol | ₹16.00 lakh | ₹22.00 lakh |
The petrol models are expected to be priced ₹1-1.5 lakh lower than their diesel counterparts, making them more accessible to buyers looking for a feature-rich SUV without the premium of diesel engines.
Launch Timeline & Market Strategy
Tata Motors is gearing up for a November 2025 launch of both models, strategically positioned before the year-end holiday and wedding season — a peak period for vehicle purchases in India.
Key Launch Highlights:
- Official unveil and bookings: Early November 2025
- Test drives and media reviews: Mid-November
- Customer deliveries: Late November or early December
The launch will likely be accompanied by an aggressive marketing campaign highlighting:
- New petrol powertrain
- Enhanced affordability
- Lower NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) compared to diesel
- Smooth city drivability
Who Are The Target Buyers?
The petrol-powered Harrier and Safari are aimed at:
- Urban Professionals: Looking for a refined, premium SUV with low NVH and comfortable city performance.
- Families: Especially in metro cities with lower average daily drives where diesel efficiency is not a necessity.
- First-time Premium SUV Buyers: Who previously found diesel pricing or maintenance intimidating.
- Corporate Fleet Buyers: Who prefer petrol for cleaner operation and lower upfront cost.
Competition Check: Where Do They Stand?
With the introduction of petrol variants, Tata will finally be able to compete across both fuel segments in the mid-size to full-size SUV space.
Key Rivals:
| SUV Model | Petrol Option Available | Price Range (₹ lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Alcazar | Yes | 16.77 – 21.28 |
| MG Hector / Hector Plus | Yes | 13.99 – 22.00 |
| Mahindra XUV700 | Yes | 14.03 – 26.57 |
| Toyota Hyryder | Yes (Hybrid) | 11.14 – 20.19 |
| Jeep Compass | Yes | 20.69 – 32.41 |
With the petrol Safari and Harrier, Tata Motors will finally fill the petrol gap and go head-to-head with these segment leaders.
Future Outlook
The launch of petrol versions of Safari and Harrier is more than just a product extension — it represents a strategic shift by Tata Motors to diversify its portfolio amid tightening emissions norms and changing consumer demands.
Additionally, Tata may eventually offer these petrol variants with mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid technologies, aligning with India’s push for cleaner mobility.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming launch of Tata Safari and Harrier Petrol in November 2025 is poised to be a game-changer for both Tata Motors and Indian SUV buyers. With modern features, 5-star safety, bold design, and now, a refined petrol engine under the hood, these SUVs are ready to appeal to a whole new segment.