New Delhi, India – In a significant move, Tata Motors recently unveiled the upgraded versions of their popular Harrier and Safari models, both of which secured an impressive 5-star safety rating from the Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP). While these vehicles are currently available with diesel engines across various trim levels, the company is now gearing up to introduce petrol variants in response to market demands.
The decision to incorporate petrol engines aligns with the changing preferences of Indian SUV enthusiasts, particularly in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), where petrol-powered vehicles have gained substantial favor.
While Tata Motors has confirmed the development of petrol engine options, the exact release date remains on the horizon. The company provided a glimpse of what’s to come at the Auto Expo, showcasing a 1.5-liter turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection (GDi) engine. This powerplant, boasting 168 bhp and 280Nm of torque, is a 4-cylinder unit. It is anticipated to debut in the production version of the Curvv model and may subsequently be integrated into the forthcoming Safari and Harrier facelifts.
The decision to introduce petrol engines reflects Tata Motors’ commitment to diversify its product lineup and cater to the growing interest in petrol-powered SUVs. While diesel engines continue to dominate the SUV segment, the introduction of petrol variants is a strategic move to capture a niche market.
In terms of competition, most of the rivals to the Safari and Harrier also offer petrol engines in their lineups, making it imperative for Tata Motors to keep pace with changing trends.
Currently, the Safari and Harrier facelifts are equipped with a robust 2.0-liter diesel engine, providing customers with both 6-speed automatic and manual transmission choices. The 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol unit is expected to bring an automatic transmission option, including a Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT), in addition to a manual gearbox. This move is likely to make these models more competitive in terms of pricing, enhancing their appeal to consumers interested in compact SUVs.
However, Tata Motors’ innovation doesn’t stop at petrol engines. In line with the global shift toward electric vehicles (EVs), the company is also set to introduce an electric version of the Harrier. This EV was showcased at the Auto Expo, signifying Tata Motors’ commitment to sustainability and its ambition to lead the electric vehicle revolution. The electric variant, along with the upcoming petrol versions, is an integral part of Tata Motors’ future strategy.
With these exciting developments on the horizon, Tata Motors is poised to expand its market reach and cater to the evolving preferences of Indian SUV enthusiasts. The introduction of petrol variants, coupled with the foray into electric vehicles, is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and its determination to stay at the forefront of the automotive industry.
Discussion about this post