KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Next gen Tata Safari & Harrier in works
- With transition to new platform, likely to offer AWD
- New petrol engine to also be incorporated
Tata Motors has commenced development on the next generations of its popular Harrier and Safari SUVs, codenamed Taurus and Leo respectively. While their development is still in initial stages and the launch is sometime away, intriguing details about their underlying architecture and propulsion systems have emerged. Both forthcoming models will transition to an entirely new, highly versatile platform. This advanced base is engineered to support a diverse range of powertrains, including traditional Internal Combustion Engines (ICE), all-electric setups, and crucial AWD drivetrain options, and more information has been revealed in this section below. But before moving ahead, make sure to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group community of petrolheads to never miss out on any updates from the automotive world.
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The next gen Tata Safari and Harrier SUVs are all set to transition to a whole new platform that suits a range of needs, including the highly demanded AWD option as well. This departure marks a significant shift from the current Harrier and Safari, which utilize Tata's Omega architecture, a derivative of Land Rover's D8 platform. The D8, while robust, has inherent design constraints, notably its inability to easily integrate an AWD system with ICE powertrains (though Tata did adapt it for AWD in the Harrier EV). This limitation has been a consistent point of feedback, particularly for the Safari, which, unlike its earlier AWD-equipped iterations, currently offers only front-wheel drive. The decision to engineer a new, flexible platform directly responds to this demand, aiming to restore the rough-road capabilities synonymous with Safari's legacy.
Beyond mechanicals, the new platform will also usher in significant changes to the SUVs' dimensions and technological offerings. Both the Harrier and Safari are projected to grow in size, with their overall length increasing by 100-200mm. This growth is particularly beneficial for the three-row Safari, ensuring even more generous interior space. A brand-new electrical and electronic (E&E) architecture, developed in collaboration with Chinese firm Desay, will underpin these models.
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Engine Options
Under the hood, the next-generation Harrier and Safari are expected to offer a versatile powertrain lineup. The highly anticipated 1.5-liter direct-injection turbo-petrol engine, which is yet to debut, is slated to power these flagships. Additionally, an evolved version of the current 2.0-liter diesel engine, now developed in-house after Tata secured licensing rights from Stellantis, is also anticipated. For the all-electric variants, an advancement of the current Harrier EV's electric powertrain is in the pipeline, promising enhanced performance and range for the zero-emission versions of both SUVs.
Verdict
This strategic overhaul for the next-generation Harrier and Safari signals a bold step for Tata Motors. By investing in a new, flexible platform capable of supporting diverse powertrains, including true AWD and advanced EVs, the company addresses key limitations of its current offerings. For buyers, this translates into a promise of more capable, spacious, and technologically advanced SUVs, potentially with a broader range of performance and efficiency choices. This forward-thinking approach not only strengthens Tata's competitive standing but also aims to deliver vehicles that are better aligned with evolving market demands and consumer expectations. However, I would like to see these come to life not too late where they miss the current wave because then, it would be a battle uphill to make a mark.
Source- Autocar
