Tata Harrier, Safari Next-Gen To Feature New Platform With AWD

Next-gen Tata Harrier, Safari to offer AWD, larger size, flexible architecture

Tata Motors is working on the next-generation versions of its popular Harrier and Safari SUVs, with significant upgrades planned for both models. Internally known by their project names Taurus (Harrier) and Leo (Safari), these vehicles will mark a major shift from their current underpinnings and are expected to arrive in the coming years.

The new-generation Harrier and Safari will no longer be based on Tata’s existing Omega architecture, itself derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform. While the current setup has served Tata well, it has limitations, particularly its inability to accommodate an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system in internal combustion engine (ICE) versions. The AWD option is currently only available on the Harrier EV, where Tata extensively modified the platform.

The next-gen models will move to an all-new, flexible architecture designed to support multiple powertrains, including petrol, diesel and electric. Similar in philosophy to Mahindra’s NFA platform, Tata’s new architecture will be capable of sending power to all four wheels, a key improvement aimed at enhancing the off-road performance of both SUVs.

The absence of AWD in the existing ICE Safari has often been cited as a drawback, especially among enthusiasts who fondly remember the earlier Safari’s rugged, go-anywhere capability. With the upcoming models, Tata is looking to address this gap by integrating AWD into both ICE and EV variants.

On the powertrain front, Tata is expected to introduce its long-awaited 1.5-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine with the next-gen Harrier and Safari. Additionally, the familiar 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently sourced from Stellantis, will likely return in an upgraded form, as Tata has recently secured rights to manufacture and develop this engine in-house. An updated electric drivetrain based on the existing Harrier EV is also in development for the all-electric versions.

The new models will also be larger than their predecessors, with an expected length increase of 100-200 mm. This growth will likely translate to more interior space, particularly benefiting the three-row Safari. Furthermore, Tata is collaborating with Chinese brand Desay to develop an advanced electrical and electronics (E&E) architecture. This will pave the way for improved infotainment features and modern driver assistance systems.

While detailed design and feature specifics remain under wraps, the next-generation Harrier and Safari are shaping up to offer increased capability, flexibility and technological enhancements, aligning them more closely with global SUV standards.