Tata Harrier Petrol to Challenge Hyundai Creta This November
Tata Motors is set to launch petrol versions of the Harrier and Safari in November, marking the first time these SUVs will be offered with anything other than diesel. At Cartoq.com, we believe the Harrier petrol could prove to be a genuine disruptor in the midsize SUV space, where the Hyundai Creta currently leads the pack.
Pricing That Narrows the Gap
We expect the Harrier petrol to be priced around Rs 1.5 lakh lower than the diesel, with a likely starting point of about Rs 13.5 lakh ex-showroom. This puts it directly in contention with midsize SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, and Toyota Hyryder, all of which begin just above Rs 11 lakh and stretch beyond Rs 20 lakh.
Where the Harrier stands apart is sheer size. At 4,605 mm long, 1,922 mm wide, and 1,718 mm high, with a 2,741 mm wheelbase, it is significantly larger than the Creta or Seltos. For buyers, that means a bigger SUV for money comparable to compact crossovers.
A New Engine for the Line-Up
The petrol Harrier is likely to feature Tata’s new 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 168 PS and 280 Nm. Both six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes will be on offer. This engine brings the Harrier into direct competition with the Creta’s 1.5-litre turbo-petrol at 160 PS, while outmuscling the Grand Vitara’s 103 PS mild-hybrid setup.
We see this engine as bridging the gap between compact midsize SUVs and larger premium SUVs, offering performance that suits both city traffic and highway cruising.
Who Might Pick the Harrier Petrol
In our view, the Harrier petrol will appeal to buyers who want the most size and presence for their budget. Families moving up from hatchbacks or compact SUVs could be drawn to the generous rear legroom and wider cabin. Professionals seeking a premium-looking SUV without spending premium money may also be attracted to its imposing stance.
Petrol is now the preferred fuel type for nearly half of all midsize SUVs sold in India. With growing uncertainty around diesel’s future in urban markets, the Harrier petrol is arriving at the right time.
The Hurdles It Must Clear
We also see challenges. Fuel efficiency is likely to be one. The Harrier diesel currently manages 16.8 kmpl; the petrol, given its 1,675 kg kerb weight, will probably fall short of the Creta’s 17.4–21.8 kmpl or the Grand Vitara hybrid’s 19–28 kmpl range. Tata’s service network has grown, but it still trails Hyundai and Maruti in perception and coverage. Past reliability niggles with the Harrier also mean Tata will need to work harder to reassure buyers.
Meanwhile, rivals are not standing still. Hyundai has added the Creta Electric, Maruti is pushing hybrid leadership with the Grand Vitara, and Kia has strengthened the Seltos with Level 2 ADAS and new features.
Why Harrier Petrol Could Be A Disruptor
The midsize SUV space is India’s most competitive, with the Creta alone selling nearly two lakh units in FY2025. For Tata, the petrol Harrier is more than just a new variant, it is a chance to reset the segment’s value equation. If priced and executed well, it could lure buyers who are stretching for a Creta, Seltos, or Grand Vitara, but want more space and road presence for their money.
At Cartoq.com, we see November as a interesting point. The Harrier petrol has the potential to change buyer expectations in this hotly contested segment. Whether it delivers on that promise will depend on Tata’s ability to balance price, fuel efficiency, reliability, and after-sales experience.