Tata Safari Petrol – Real World Fuel Efficiency Test & Review

Tata Safari Petrol – Real World Fuel Efficiency Test & Review

Image: Tata Safari Petrol – Real World Fuel Efficiency Test & Review – Performance Comparison and Specifications

When Tata Motors rolled out the Hyperion petrol engine last year, the automotive world took notice. First seen in the Sierra and later in the Harrier, the same power‑train now powers the all‑new Tata Safari. Tata promises a blend of punchy performance and impressive mileage – but does it live up to the hype?

Why the New Safari Matters

India’s SUV segment has become a battlefield of turbo‑petrol and diesel contenders. The Safari is Tata’s flagship SUV, and for the first time it’s available with a turbo‑petrol option that claims to rival diesel’s torque while sipping fuel more responsibly. For families who crave the high‑ground clearance of an SUV but want lower running costs, the Safari petrol could be a game‑changer.

Our Test Methodology

We took the 2024 Tata Safari Petrol for a 1,200 km mixed‑city and highway drive, tracking fuel consumption with a calibrated OBD reader. The route covered:

• Urban traffic in Delhi (≈400 km)
• Highway cruising on NH 48 (≈500 km)
• Mountainous stretch near Mussoorie (≈300 km)

We logged every start‑stop, acceleration, and idle period to get an honest picture of everyday mileage.

Design & Dimensions

Engine Specifications

Feature Comparison – Petrol vs. Diesel

Real‑World Fuel Efficiency Results

After the 1,200 km grind, the on‑board computer logged an average of 15.1 km/l. Here’s how it broke down:

• City Driving: 13.4 km/l – frequent stops, A/C on, but the engine stayed calm.
• Highway Cruising: 16.8 km/l – thanks to the turbo’s low‑rpm torque.
• Hill Climb: 12.2 km/l – the flat torque curve meant we didn’t need to down‑shift aggressively.

In comparison, the same model with a diesel engine posted around 14.6 km/l on the same route, confirming Tata’s claim that the petrol unit is indeed more frugal in mixed conditions.

ADAS & Tech Suite

The petrol Safari doesn’t skimp on safety. It inherits the same Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as the Harrier:

• Front Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control (optional on top trims)
• Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection
• 360° camera and blind‑spot monitoring

All these features run on a dedicated MCU, ensuring that the extra electronic load doesn’t sap fuel economy.

Price Comparison

While the petrol top‑end sits a tad higher than the diesel base, the lower running cost and quieter cabin make it a compelling proposition for many buyers.

Driving Impressions – The Human Touch

On the road, the Hyperion engine feels surprisingly lively. The turbo kicks in early, giving us a surge of power without the dreaded “turbo lag” we’ve seen in older Indian petrol SUVs. Inside, the cabin is noticeably quieter – a welcome change from the diesel’s clatter.

One of our test drivers, Rohit Sharma, a Delhi‑based IT professional, told us: “I usually commute 80 km daily. With the diesel, I was always worrying about fuel price spikes. The petrol Safari’s mileage feels like a breath of fresh air, and the ride feels smoother on potholes.”

Pros & Cons – Quick Snapshot

• Pros:
  • Better real‑world mileage than diesel
  • Flat torque curve for effortless city driving
  • Modern ADAS suite
  • Quieter cabin
• Cons:
  • Higher upfront price for top trims
  • Petrol price volatility can affect running cost

Conclusion – Is the Tata Safari Petrol Worth It?

After putting the 2024 Tata Safari Petrol through city traffic, highway stretches, and steep climbs, the numbers speak clearly: the Hyperion engine delivers on its promise of performance and efficiency. If you’re looking for an SUV that feels premium, offers a robust ADAS package, and saves you a few rupees per litre at the pump, the petrol Safari is a solid choice.

Of course, personal preferences matter. Diesel still holds an edge in sheer low‑rpm torque for heavy loads, but for most families and young professionals, the petrol variant offers a balanced blend of power, comfort, and fuel savings.

For more in‑depth testing, check out the original review on MotorOctane.

FAQ – Tata Safari Petrol

1. What is the official fuel‑efficiency figure for the Tata Safari petrol?

The company quotes 15.2 km/l (ARAI). Our real‑world test averaged 15.1 km/l.

2. Does the petrol engine have a start‑stop system?

Yes, all petrol variants come with an intelligent start‑stop to improve city mileage.

3. How does the turbo‑petrol compare to the diesel in torque?

The petrol delivers 350 Nm from 1,600 rpm, while the diesel offers 380 Nm but only from 1,800 rpm onward.

4. Is the petrol Safari eligible for any green tax rebates?

In most states, the petrol version falls under the lower emission bracket, qualifying for modest road‑tax reductions.

5. What ADAS features are standard?

Standard safety includes ABS, EBD, dual‑front airbags, lane‑departure warning, and a rear‑view camera. Higher trims add blind‑spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

6. Can I get a manual transmission with the petrol engine?

Yes, a 6‑speed manual is offered across all petrol trims.

7. How does maintenance cost compare to the diesel?

Petrol models typically cost 30‑35% less in routine service due to fewer oil changes and simpler fuel‑system components.

8. Is the petrol Safari suitable for long road trips?

Absolutely. The engine’s low‑rpm torque and comfortable cabin make it ideal for highway cruising.

9. What warranty does Tata provide for the Hyperion engine?

Tata offers a 5‑year/1,00,000 km power‑train warranty on the petrol engine.

10. Will the petrol version retain its resale value?

Early market data suggests a strong resale outlook, especially as fuel‑efficiency becomes a bigger buying factor.