The highly anticipated Tata Harrier petrol variant, featuring the new 1.5-litre Hyperion turbocharged engine, has been spotted at dealerships, signaling an imminent launch. This sighting confirms that Tata Motors is preparing to introduce a petrol powertrain for its flagship SUV, which has previously been available only with a diesel engine. The move aims to broaden the Harrier's market appeal and enhance its competitiveness in India's mid-size SUV segment.
New Hyperion Engine Details Emerge
The spotted SUV proudly displays "Hyperion" branding on its engine cover, confirming the use of Tata's new 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, direct-injection turbo-petrol motor. This engine was first showcased at the Auto Expo 2023 and has been under development for over five years under the brand's Hyperion powertrain program. It is expected to deliver around 167.7 horsepower (170 PS) and 280 Nm of peak torque. This performance output positions the petrol Harrier competitively within its segment.[rushlane+4]
The new engine is anticipated to offer smoother power delivery, quicker throttle response, and quieter operation compared to the diesel models, particularly in urban driving conditions. Buyers will likely have choices between a 6-speed manual gearbox and an automatic transmission option. This flexibility caters to a wider range of driving preferences. The engine's development has focused on advanced technologies such as a variable geometry turbocharger, 350 bar direct fuel injection, and dual variable cam timing to ensure sporty performance and efficiency.[timesnownews+5]
Expanding Market Reach and Competition
The introduction of a petrol engine is a strategic move for Tata Motors. Until now, the Harrier and its sibling, the Safari, relied solely on diesel power, limiting their appeal in a market where many rivals offer petrol options. Competitors like the MG Hector, Hyundai Alcazar, and Mahindra XUV700 all provide petrol variants, drawing a significant portion of buyers who prefer petrol refinement and city-friendly performance.[timesnownews+4]
Tata Motors aims to tap into the approximately 20 percent of the SUV market that prefers petrol engines. Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, previously stated that the company recognized the need to cater to this segment, noting that petrol variants offer aggressive price points. The addition of the Hyperion engine will allow Tata to target a much wider customer base, especially those who prioritize lower running noise and potentially reduced maintenance costs associated with petrol vehicles.[m+3]
Expected Features and Pricing Strategy
The petrol version of the Harrier is expected to retain the same rich feature package found in the existing diesel models. This includes a large touchscreen infotainment system with connected car technology, a fully digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera setup, and a comprehensive suite of electronic safety aids. Higher trims are also likely to feature JBL-tuned audio systems and an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) suite. The design and dimensions of the petrol Harrier will remain identical to the current facelifted diesel model, maintaining its bold stance and muscular proportions.[timesnownews+6]
Pricing for the petrol variants is expected to be more accessible than the diesel lineup. Industry estimates suggest the petrol Harrier could start from around ₹13 lakh to ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom), potentially undercutting diesel equivalents by ₹80,000 to ₹1.2 lakh. This pricing strategy aims to make the Harrier an attractive entry point for a broader range of buyers, directly competing with other petrol-powered mid-size SUVs.[timesnownews+4]
Fuel Efficiency and Production
In terms of fuel efficiency, the new 1.5-litre Hyperion petrol engine is expected to deliver approximately 12-14 kilometers per liter (kmpl) under mixed driving conditions. Highway-only runs could potentially reach 16-17 kmpl with disciplined driving. This will offer a different character compared to the torquey diesel engine, appealing to those who prioritize refinement over outright low-end shove.[timesnownews+2]
The new turbo-petrol engine is also expected to be manufactured at the Stellantis–Tata joint facility in Ranjangaon, where the current 2.0-litre diesel engine is built. This collaboration ensures streamlined production and quality control for the new powertrain.[autos+1]
Impact on Harrier Sales Performance
The Tata Harrier nameplate has shown strong sales performance. In October 2025, cumulative sales for the Harrier (including the Harrier EV) reached 4,483 units, marking a 6.58 percent month-on-month growth. By November 2025, total Harrier sales were 3,771 units, representing an impressive 174.45 percent year-on-year growth, despite a 15.88 percent month-on-month dip. The Harrier crossed the 150,000 cumulative sales mark by November 2025, demonstrating fresh momentum with the addition of more powertrain choices, including the Harrier EV launched in June 2025.[v3cars+2]
The addition of a petrol variant is poised to further boost these sales figures by attracting new customer segments who previously shied away from the diesel-only offering. This move solidifies Tata Motors' commitment to offering diverse powertrain options across its SUV lineup, strengthening its position in the highly competitive Indian automotive market. The impending launch of the Tata Harrier 1.5L Petrol Hyperion is a significant development, promising more choice and enhanced accessibility for SUV buyers across the country.[cartoq+2]
