Next-Gen Tata Harrier and Safari Likely to Feature All-Wheel Drive System

Tata Motors has already begun work on the next-generation Harrier and Safari, and while their launch is still a few years away, we have got our hands on platform, powertrain and other details of both SUVs. Codenamed Taurus and Leo, respectively, the second-gen Harrier and new-gen Safari will be underpinned by a new platform that is capable of using multiple powertrains (ICE and EV), and AWD tech.

New Tata Harrier, Safari platform details

New flexible platform will be able to incorporate AWD tech

Tata Harrier design sketch used for representation only.

The current Harrier and Safari are based on Tata’s Omega architecture, which is a derivative Land Rover’s D8 platform. However, the D8 platform has got a lot of limitations, one of which is that it isn’t capable of having an all-wheel drive system in internal combustion engine (ICE) form; it should be noted that Tata has managed to give AWD tech on a heavily reworked version of the platform with the recently launched Harrier EV.

A common gripe about the current front-wheel drive Safari is that it doesn’t live up to the original’s rough road ability as the older model came with AWD on select variants. This is what has prompted Tata Motors to develop a new platform. The new underpinnings will, in essence, be like Mahindra’s NFA platform – a flexible architecture that is capable of utilising ICE and electric powertrain options, along with space for drive to be sent to both axles.

New Tata Harrier, Safari powertrain details

1.5-litre turbo-petrol, 2.0-litre diesel and all-electric powertrains expected

While the 1.5-litre direct injection turbo-petrol engine has yet to make its debut, it is expected to be carried forward to the new-gen Harrier and Safari. The flagship SUVs are also likely to be equipped with an upgraded version of current 2.0 litre diesel engine sourced from Stellantis, as it recently acquired the licensing rights to develop the unit in-house. An evolution of the current Harrier EV’s electric powertrain is also expected on the all-electric versions of the next-gen SUVs.

New Tata Harrier, Safari exterior and interior details

Overall length expected to increase by 100-200mm

Tata Harrier design sketch used for representation only.

While not much else is known about the next-generation of the Harrier and Safari, the new platform will see the SUVs grow in size; sources say that the overall length will increase by 100-200mm. This should help increase space on the inside, particularly for the three-row Safari. A new electrical (E&E) architecture will also be part of the package. Tata has tied up with Chinese brand Desay to develop the next-gen architecture, which would enable the brand to offer the latest in infotainment and autonomous systems.