Tata Motors continues to set high standards for safety in the Indian automotive market. Ahead of official price announcements, the petrol variants of the Tata Harrier and Safari have achieved a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, identical to their diesel counterparts. This demonstrates that Tata’s commitment to occupant protection remains uncompromised across different powertrains, offering reassurance to prospective buyers.
The confirmation of these ratings underscores Tata’s dedication to engineering SUVs that prioritize safety without compromising on performance or driving experience. With petrol powertrains now joining the portfolio, customers can choose based on fuel preference while enjoying the same class-leading crash safety.
Bharat NCAP Certification
The Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP) evaluates vehicles for crashworthiness, occupant protection, and overall safety in the Indian context. The Tata Harrier and Safari were among the first SUVs tested under Bharat NCAP in December 2023, shortly after receiving their September 2023 facelifts.
Since the petrol versions share the same body structure, restraint systems, and safety features as the previously tested diesel models, they inherit the same 5-star rating, confirming that the change in engine type does not impact structural integrity or crash performance.
Crash Test Performance
Both SUVs delivered excellent results in the Bharat NCAP assessment, highlighting their occupant protection capabilities.
Key Safety Scores:
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 30.08 / 32
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 44.54 / 49
These ratings place the Harrier and Safari among the safest SUVs currently available in India, now including the upcoming petrol variants.
Standard Safety Features
Tata equips both SUVs with a comprehensive set of safety features, ensuring strong protection across all trims.
Safety Equipment Highlights:
- Six airbags (seven in higher trims)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Three-point seatbelts for all occupants
- Seatbelt reminders for all seating positions
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Seatbelt pretensioners, load limiters, and anchor pretensioners
These features, combined with advanced structural engineering, contribute significantly to the 5-star ratings.
Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
Higher variants of the Harrier and Safari include Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), enhancing active safety and driver support.
ADAS Features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Lane Keep Assist
- Lane Departure Warning
- Forward Collision Warning
- Blind Spot Detection
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- High Beam Assist
These camera- and radar-assisted technologies provide situational awareness and can intervene in critical scenarios to reduce the likelihood or severity of accidents.
Powertrain Options Diesel vs Petrol
The Harrier and Safari now offer both diesel and petrol engines, ensuring options for diverse customer preferences.
Diesel Engine:
- Type: 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel
- Power: 168 bhp
- Torque: 350 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual / 7-speed torque converter automatic
Petrol Engine:
- Type: 1.5-litre TGDI turbo petrol
- Power: 168 bhp
- Torque: 280 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual / 7-speed torque converter automatic
Both engines deliver strong performance, with petrol variants offering a refined alternative while retaining full safety credentials.
Safety Ratings Summary
|
Model |
Powertrain |
Adult Occupant Protection |
Child Occupant Protection |
Bharat NCAP Rating |
|
Tata Harrier |
Diesel |
30.08 / 32 |
44.54 / 49 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Tata Harrier |
Petrol |
30.08 / 32 |
44.54 / 49 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Tata Safari |
Diesel |
30.08 / 32 |
44.54 / 49 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Tata Safari |
Petrol |
30.08 / 32 |
44.54 / 49 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Why This Matters
By matching petrol variants to diesel safety standards, Tata Motors gives buyers confidence in structural integrity and occupant protection regardless of engine choice. Customers can prioritize fuel type, driving style, or cost considerations without compromising on safety.
This move strengthens Tata’s position in the premium SUV segment, where crash ratings, advanced safety tech, and ADAS features are key factors influencing purchase decisions.
Conclusion
The Tata Harrier and Safari petrol variants securing 5-star Bharat NCAP ratings is a significant achievement for Tata Motors. With robust crash test results, comprehensive standard safety features, and advanced Level 2 ADAS, these SUVs set a benchmark in safety and reliability for their segment.
Coupled with the introduction of a capable 1.5-litre petrol engine alongside the diesel options, the Harrier and Safari offer buyers a perfect balance of performance, technology, and safety. As prices are officially announced, these SUVs are poised to remain strong contenders in India’s premium SUV market.
