The company Tata Motors is going to a huge update for its leading SUVs, Harrier and Safari. So far, only diesel engines had been available for both models. Now, this situation is about to change. The long-awaited petrol versions of Harrier and Safari will be launched by Tata on 9 December 2025, thus, indicating a substantial increment in the lineup. Apart from this, new reports have surfaced that suggest that Tata might even introduce strong hybrid technology in the future. This strategy could prove to be a good one for both SUVs as they would get to compete with the others who sell hybrid powertrains.
The First Time
The launch of the Harrier and Safari marked the entry of these models without the option of petrol; however, this is going to be the first time these two will share a common ground with petrol. The Hyperion family will first distribute Tata’s new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, which is also the same for these two SUVs. The given number of engines will be 170 hp, and torque will be 280 Nm; thus, together they are fully capable of providing a diesel-free alternative as strong. The range of cues will be extended by the introduction of both manual and automatic gearbox options for petrol variants giving customers the whole range with maximum flexibility.
Hybrid
Tata Motors today does not manufacture strong hybrid passenger cars but it is now considering the technology actively. Company insiders and media reports point out that the Harrier and Safari may be the first Tata SUVs to be equipped with a strong hybrid system. This would allow them to be countered directly with hybrid SUV from Toyota and Maruti Suzuki, both of which have already achieved considerable popularity in the Indian market.
A strong hybrid system offers several benefits such as better fuel economy, less pollution, the smoothness of the ride at city speeds to name a few. Besides, it works on a dual system where electric torque is combined with engine power, thus, giving a boost to the performance and making the SUVs quick to respond.
Reason
The SUV market in India is rapidly changing. The demand for a mix of performance and efficiency from the cars is growing together with the rising fuel prices and the stricter emission norms. In this scenario, the strong hybrid technology can definitely be one of the best options. For Tata Motors, the addition of strong hybrids to the Harrier and Safari lineup would not only help in adhering to the upcoming CAFE regulations but also in strengthening the brand’s long-term strategy in the areas of petrol, CNG, hybrid, and electric powertrains.
Future
Currently, the petrol launch planned for December 2025 is Tata’s main priority. After the petrol Harrier and Safari are released, the company will evaluate customer response and market conditions to determine whether it wants to hasten the development of strong hybrid versions. If strong hybrid Harrier and Safari become a reality, they could be slated for launch in the latter part of the decade, thus providing Tata with an extensive and strategically developed portfolio covering all predominant fuel types.
