The long wait is finally over. Tata Motors has officially unveiled the petrol-powered versions of its flagship SUV, the Harrier, effectively giving the model the critical powertrain diversity it has needed for years. This isn’t just a basic engine swap; the introduction of the new 1.5-litre TGDi turbo-petrol engine, part of the new ‘Hyperion’ family, brings with it a host of significant feature additions and a new, top-tier variant.
This move is a direct response to the market shift where nearly a third of all high-segment SUV sales now come from petrol models. By offering an alternative to the popular 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel, Tata is firmly positioning the Harrier to take on petrol rivals like the Mahindra XUV700 and MG Hector. For buyers who prefer the smoother, quieter experience of a petrol engine, especially in congested city driving, the Harrier is suddenly a much more compelling proposition.
The New 1.5L TGDi Engine: Power and Refinement
The core of this update is the all-new 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDi) engine. Developed in-house, this unit has been specifically tuned for the Harrier and Safari, providing a substantial output of 170 PS of power and 280 Nm of peak torque. This is a crucial detail, as it means the petrol engine matches the power output of the existing Kryotec diesel engine, ensuring the Harrier does not compromise on performance.
The engine can be paired with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or an Aisin-sourced 6-speed torque converter automatic. Initial drive reviews highlight a strong bottom end and linear power delivery with minimal turbo lag, suggesting a comfortable experience in stop-and-go traffic. While official fuel efficiency figures are still awaited, the promise of a more refined cabin experience, thanks to better noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control at low RPMs, is a significant draw away from its diesel sibling.
Feature Upgrades and the Exclusive ‘Ultra’ Variant
Beyond the engine, Tata has used this launch to introduce several high-value feature enhancements that were previously seen on the Harrier.ev concept, further bridging the gap between its ICE and Electric offerings. These features are often bundled into the new, petrol-exclusive top trim, the Fearless Ultra variant.
Key feature additions now available across the higher trims include:
- 14.5-inch QLED Infotainment System: A significantly larger and crisp touchscreen unit from Samsung.
- JBL 10-speaker Audio System: Paired with Dolby Atmos tuning for a premium acoustic experience.
- Digital Inside Rear-View Mirror (e-IRVM): This camera-based mirror also features an integrated dash camera, enhancing safety and convenience.
- Camera Washers: A thoughtful addition for both the front and rear cameras, ensuring a clear view for the 360-degree system, especially in poor weather.
- Memory ORVM with Reverse-Dip: The driver’s seat memory function is now linked to the Outside Rear-View Mirrors (ORVMs), which also dip automatically when reverse gear is engaged.
The new Fearless Ultra variant, along with the Dark and Red Dark editions, retains the Harrier’s 5-star BNCAP safety rating, assuring buyers that the new powertrain does not compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity or safety suite.
Price Positioning and Market Impact
While Tata has not released the exact pricing for the entire petrol Harrier lineup, the market expectation is clear. The entry-level petrol variants are anticipated to be positioned around Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom), making them approximately Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh cheaper than the equivalent diesel trims. This strategic pricing will allow the Harrier to aggressively challenge rivals on cost, besides offering a powerful and feature-rich petrol option that many prospective buyers had been requesting.
The introduction of the 1.5L TGDi engine is more than just a new variant; it’s a pivotal moment for the Harrier. It completes the vehicle’s portfolio, addresses a major market gap, and integrates new-generation features, making the Harrier a more formidable contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the power and torque output of the new Harrier petrol engine?
A: The new 1.5-litre TGDi turbo-petrol engine is tuned to produce 170 PS (168 BHP) of maximum power and 280 Nm of peak torque.
Q: What is the ‘Fearless Ultra’ variant?
A: The Fearless Ultra is a new, petrol-exclusive top-spec trim for the Harrier that includes premium features like the 14.5-inch QLED touchscreen, JBL audio system with Dolby Atmos, and the digital rear-view mirror (e-IRVM).
Q: Is the Harrier petrol engine available with an automatic transmission?
A: Yes, the Harrier petrol is available with both a 6-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed torque converter automatic (TC).
Disclaimer: This article is based on information revealed by Tata Motors and automotive news reports. Prices and final specifications are subject to official confirmation from the manufacturer and may vary based on location and regulatory changes. Buyers should always check with an authorized dealership before making a purchase decision.
