Petrol Safari has finally arrived, and it rewrites the rulebook for Tata’s flagship SUV. Launched on December 9, 2025, this petrol-powered iteration addresses urban buyers’ growing preference for petrol engines while delivering performance that genuinely surprises. The new Hyperion turbo-petrol proves remarkably capable even with six passengers on board, the Safari pulls with authority that belies its 1.5-litre displacement.
Petrol Safari Hyperion Engine: Punching Above Its Weight
At the heart of the Petrol Safari lies Tata’s 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo-petrol engine, tuned specifically for this application. The numbers read 170 hp at 5,000 rpm and 280 Nm available between 1,750–3,500 rpm gaining 10 hp and 25 Nm over the Sierra’s version. However, the real engineering brilliance lies in the power curve profiling: strong low-end torque builds early from just above idle, countering the Safari’s substantial kerb weight effectively.
If you dismiss a 1.5-litre engine in a large three-row SUV as inadequate, prepare for recalibration. The strong bottom-end grunt helps the Safari build pace effortlessly, with virtually no turbo lag disrupting the linear power delivery. This engine prioritises accessible performance over peaky turbo punch it won’t pin you back at 3,500 rpm like some rivals, but it never leaves you wanting either. Early driving impressions suggest impressive real-world acceleration, and crucially, performance remains more than adequate even with six occupants.
Transmission Choice: Why Automatic Wins
Unlike the Sierra, the Petrol Safari offers a 6-speed manual option. However, our recommendation leans firmly toward the smooth-shifting Aisin-sourced 6-speed torque-converter automatic. The gear ratios complement the engine’s character perfectly it avoids premature upshifts and keeps the Safari within its torque band intelligently. Manual intervention via paddle shifters rarely feels necessary, though engaging them switches the drive mode to Sport automatically.
Three drive modes alter throttle response, though we’d appreciate more distinction between them. Three terrain modes address light off-road requirements. Refinement impresses throughout the rev range with minimal vibrations, though the engine remains slightly more audible than expected for a petrol never coarse, but present. Four-wheel disc brakes deliver confident stopping power.
Advanced Features in the Petrol Safari Ultra Variant
14.5-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
The Petrol Safari introduces a larger 14.5-inch Samsung-sourced high-resolution infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Arcade App Suite enables access to streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and JioHotstar when parked, subject to safety restrictions, while built-in Mappls Auto navigation with Alexa integration handles directions intelligently.
Level 2 ADAS with 22 Safety Features
The comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite incorporates 22 functions including Adaptive Cruise Control with low-speed capability, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Standard safety equipment spans seven airbags, ESP with 17 functionalities, 360-degree camera, TPMS, and the innovative VisionEX digital IRVM with integrated dashcam and Dolby Atmos support through the 10-speaker JBL system.
Petrol Safari Variants and Expected Pricing
Tata is expected to offer the Petrol Safari across multiple variants: Smart, Pure, Pure X Dark, Adventure X+, Adventure X+ Dark, Accomplished X, Accomplished X+, Accomplished X+ Dark, Accomplished X Stealth, Accomplished X Ultra, and Accomplished X Red Dark. The Ultra variant brings the most comprehensive package including the new Oyster White and Gold interior theme, memory ORVMs with auto reverse-dip, sliding armrest, and ventilated seats across both rows.
Expected pricing ranges from ₹15.50 lakh to ₹27.00 lakh (ex-showroom), positioned approximately ₹1–1.5 lakh below equivalent diesel variants. Built on the Land Rover D8-derived OMEGARC platform, the Safari retains its commanding dimensions with 185 mm ground clearance and flexible 6/7-seater configurations.
Motors77 Verdict
The 2025 Petrol Safari silences sceptics convincingly. Tata’s decision to extract more from the Hyperion engine pays dividends the Safari never feels underpowered, even fully loaded. The linear power delivery prioritises real-world usability over headline-grabbing turbo theatrics, and the Aisin automatic proves an excellent dance partner.
Our pick: Adventure X+ automatic balances features and value ideally. Technology seekers should stretch for the Accomplished X Ultra. Against the XUV700 and Alcazar, the Petrol Safari counters with superior build quality, platform pedigree, and that unmistakable Safari presence. For urban families seeking premium three-row capability without diesel compromises, this deserves serious consideration.
The Hyperion turbo-petrol engine also powers the Harrier, which we’ve covered in detail in our Tata Harrier Petrol review.
