2026 Tata Harrier and Safari petrol debut with a new 1.5L turbo engine producing 170 PS, premium features, ADAS, multiple variants and automatic gearbox options.
2026 Tata Harrier & Safari Petrol Debut: Specs, Features, Variants and What’s New
Tata Motors is gearing up to expand its SUV portfolio with the petrol-powered versions of the Harrier and Safari, marking a major shift for the brand’s flagship SUVs. Until now, both models have been offered primarily with diesel power, but with changing market preferences and stricter emission norms, Tata is finally introducing a new turbo-petrol option for Indian buyers.
At the heart of the 2026 Tata Harrier and Safari petrol versions is the all-new 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo GDi engine, which promises a strong balance of performance, refinement and efficiency. We recently experienced the petrol-powered duo, and here’s everything you need to know about their engine specs, features, variants and key highlights.
New 1.5L Hyperion Turbo Petrol Engine: Power and Performance
The biggest highlight of the 2026 Harrier and Safari petrol models is Tata’s newly developed 1.5-litre Hyperion turbocharged petrol engine. This four-cylinder gasoline direct injection (GDi) unit produces:
- 170 PS of maximum power
- 280 Nm of peak torque
These figures put the petrol versions right in line with segment expectations, offering strong mid-range performance for both city and highway driving.
The engine is available with:
- 6-speed manual transmission
- 6-speed automatic transmission
Both gearbox options will be offered across the Harrier and Safari petrol line-ups, giving buyers plenty of choice.
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Advanced Engine Technology and Efficiency
Tata Motors has engineered the Hyperion petrol engine with a strong focus on real-world usability and long-term durability. Some of the key technologies include:
- Electronically actuated variable geometry turbocharger
- 350-bar high-pressure gasoline direct injection
- AI- and ML-based systems such as Smart Shift Assist and Launch Assist
The engine uses a Miller combustion cycle, paired with what Tata claims is the highest compression ratio in the segment. An intelligent fuelling system continuously adjusts parameters to maximise efficiency while maintaining performance.
Compared to the diesel versions, the petrol Harrier and Safari are also around 80 kg lighter, which helps improve responsiveness and overall driving dynamics.
Improved Refinement and NVH Levels
One of the key advantages of the petrol powertrain is better refinement and lower noise levels. Tata has taken several steps to improve NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness), including:
- A stiffened engine block with an integrated ladder frame
- Advanced acoustic insulation materials
- High-pressure fuel injectors with built-in isolators
According to Tata Motors, the Hyperion engine has undergone over 15 lakh kilometres of real-world testing and more than 10,000 hours of bench testing across extreme weather conditions and terrains, ensuring reliability and durability.
Platform and Dimensions Remain Unchanged
Both the Harrier and Safari petrol models continue to be based on Tata’s OMEGARC architecture, which is derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform. This means buyers will continue to get the same strong structural integrity and road presence.
- The Tata Harrier retains its bold, 4.6-metre-long stance
- The Tata Safari continues with its three-row seating layout, making it suitable for larger families
There are no changes to the overall dimensions, ensuring that the petrol versions maintain the same commanding SUV appeal.
Design and Interior Updates for Petrol Versions
While the exterior design remains familiar, Tata has introduced exclusive interior themes and styling elements for the petrol-powered models.
Tata Harrier Petrol Interior Highlights
- New Oyster White and Titan Brown cabin theme
- Premium Benecke Kaliko leatherette upholstery
- 18-inch Lunar Graphite alloy wheels
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Tata Safari Petrol Interior Highlights
- Rich Carnelian Red interior theme
- Matching premium leatherette seats
- Steel Black dashboard accents
- Larger 19-inch Blackstone alloy wheels
- Sporty red brake callipers
Both SUVs also get new exterior colour options, including:
- Nitro Crimson
- Carbon Black
These updates help distinguish the petrol variants from their diesel counterparts.
Segment-First Infotainment and Connected Tech
One of the biggest talking points of the 2026 Harrier and Safari petrol is the 36.9 cm cinematic infotainment display. Powered by Samsung Neo QLED technology, Tata claims this to be the world’s first Neo QLED screen in an ICE vehicle.
Key infotainment and tech features include:
- Dolby Atmos-enabled audio system
- 10 JBL speakers, including subwoofer and central channel
- Arcade app suite with OTT streaming apps
- Built-in Mappls navigation
- iRA 2.0 connected car technology
- Alexa Home-to-Car integration
Automatic variants also feature a JLR-derived command shifter, adding to the premium feel.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Both the Harrier and Safari petrol models are packed with premium comfort features, including:
- Powered front seats with memory and welcome functions
- Ventilated seats
- Second-row ventilation (exclusive to select Safari variants)
- Dual-zone climate control with voice commands
- Panoramic sunroof with mood lighting
- Ambient cabin lighting
- Gesture-controlled powered tailgate
Practical additions such as winged second-row headrests, sliding armrests, roll-up sun blinds and a ClearView dual-camera washer system further enhance everyday usability.
Safety and ADAS Features
Safety remains a major focus area for Tata Motors. Both the Harrier and Safari petrol models are rated 5 stars under Bharat NCAP.
Key safety highlights include:
- Level 2+ ADAS with over 22 advanced driver assistance features
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Intelligent speed assist
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Advanced electronic stability program with multiple intervention modes
These features ensure a high level of confidence across city traffic, highways and varying road conditions.
Variants and Trim Levels
The petrol powertrain is available across a wide range of trims for both SUVs, including:
- Smart
- Pure
- Adventure
- Fearless
- Accomplished
In addition, Tata is offering multiple special editions such as:
- Dark Edition
- Stealth Edition
- Ultra Edition
While entry-level variants focus on value and essentials, the Ultra trims are positioned as fully loaded offerings, especially in the automatic configuration.
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Final Thoughts
The 2026 Tata Harrier and Safari petrol models represent a significant upgrade for Tata’s flagship SUVs. With a powerful new turbo-petrol engine, premium interiors, cutting-edge infotainment and advanced safety tech, the petrol versions add a new dimension to the Harrier and Safari lineup.
For buyers looking for a refined, feature-rich SUV with petrol power, these new versions are likely to become a strong alternative to diesel-only rivals in the segment.