2026 Tata Harrier, Safari Petrol First Drive Review: Is Hyperion Only A Hype?

The mid-size SUV space in India is quietly changing. Back in FY2019, petrol SUVs made up barely 19 per cent of this segment. Fast forward to FY2025, and that number has climbed to 31 per cent. Buyers today are clearly more open to petrol power, driven by changing usage patterns, rising diesel costs, and increasing regulatory uncertainty. Nowhere is this more evident than in Delhi NCR, where diesel ownership remains a question mark. It is in this backdrop that Tata Motors has finally introduced petrol versions of the Harrier and Safari, giving buyers an alternative that many have been waiting for. But how well-behaved are the Hyperion-powered Tata Harrier and Safari Petrol? Read the review.

Tata Harrier, Safari Petrol Review: Design

Visually, not much has changed, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. The Harrier and Safari continue with the same bold, upright design that has defined them so far. The notable update is the return of the Red Dark Edition, which adds a sportier edge. The Harrier also gets a new Nitro Crimson shade, which suits its muscular proportions well and adds a welcome pop of colour to the range.

Tata Harrier, Safari Petrol Review: Cabin and Features

Step inside the Harrier, and the most noticeable change is the new white and brown interior theme. It instantly lifts the cabin ambience and makes the SUV feel more premium. The large 14.5-inch touchscreen sourced from Samsung is crisp and responsive, while features like memory function for the driver seat add everyday convenience.

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The 10-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos support delivers a fuller soundstage, and the digital IRVM proves useful, considering compromised rear-ward visibility in both Harrier and Safari. A dual-channel dashcam with DVR is now built-in, which feels like a practical addition rather than a gimmick. Another interesting touch is the option of auto-dipping ORVMs, as you engage reverse gear. The Safari builds on this with features like electric Boss Mode, reinforcing its role as the more chauffeur-friendly option.

Thankfully, all of these features worked nicely on our test cars, without any bugs or lags. And, it indeed felt like a big achievement for Tata Motors.

Tata Harrier, Safari Petrol Review: Performance

Powering both SUVs is Tata's new Hyperion turbo-petrol engine, producing 170 Hp and 280 Nm. Our drive was with the 6-speed automatic, paired to an Aisin-sourced gearbox. The engine uses an Atkinson cycle setup, which in simple terms prioritises efficiency and smoothness. Tata Motors says they received around 25 kmpl on both of these models, but we saw lower numbers on the instrument binnacle. We will soon do a mileage run on one of these SUVs to deliver a crisp comment in this regard.

On the move, NVH levels are well controlled, and the engine feels relaxed at city speeds. Low-end response is clean, the mid-range is usable, and the SUVs never feel strained despite their size. Tata has managed to shave off around 80 kg compared to the diesel versions, which helps overall driveability. Ride comfort remains a strong point, and the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly without drawing attention to itself.

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Tata Harrier, Safari Petrol Review: Verdict

Pricing will ultimately decide how well the petrol Harrier and Safari perform in the market. What Tata has delivered, though, are the most refined versions of these SUVs yet. The petrol engine feels well matched to their character, especially for urban and highway use. That said, the only question bugging me is the long-term reliability and ownership experience, based on past observations. As a first impression, however, Tata's petrol push feels timely and well executed.