TATA HARRIER CNG ? IT SOUNDS GOOD, BUT THE MATH DOESN’T ADD UP.

With Tata Motors dominating the CNG market (Nexon, Punch, Tiago), everyone is asking the same question: “Is a Tata Harrier CNG coming next?”

Recent reports say Tata is “evaluating” CNG for its bigger cars. But before you get excited about a cheap-to-run Harrier, you need to look at the engineering reality.

Here is our simple expert analysis of why a Harrier CNG might be a very difficult (and slow) car to build.

Also Read –PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT A CNG SIERRA. BUT DOES IT MAKE SENSE?

THE WEIGHT PROBLEM: IT’S TOO HEAVY

The Tata Harrier is a tank. It weighs around 1,700 kg. To move this weight, you need massive pulling power (torque). The current diesel engine produces 350 Nm of torque, which makes the Harrier feel fast.

The Problem with CNG: CNG fuel makes engines weaker.

Current CNG Engine: The 1.2L Turbo CNG (from Nexon) makes about 170 Nm. If you put this in a heavy Harrier, it would barely move. It would struggle to climb a mall ramp, let alone a mountain.

THE ONLY HOPE: THE NEW 1.5L PETROL ENGINE

For a Harrier CNG to exist, Tata cannot use its current engines. They would need to build a CNG version of the new 1.5L Turbo Petrol (which launches on Dec 9).

Petrol Power: 170 PS / 280 Nm
Estimated CNG Power: ~150 PS / 230 Nm

Verdict: This could work technically. But developing a brand-new CNG engine for a premium SUV is expensive. Tata might prefer to sell the Harrier EV or a future Hybrid version instead, which offers power and efficiency.

WHO WOULD BUY IT?

There is a “prestige” issue. People pay ₹25 Lakh for a Harrier to feel powerful and premium.

CNG Image: CNG is still seen as a budget fuel for taxis and small hatchbacks.
The Risk: Would a premium buyer want to wait in a long CNG queue with autos and taxis? Tata might feel this hurts the “premium” brand value of the Harrier.

OUR EXPERT VERDICT

Don’t wait for a Harrier CNG.

While Tata is “evaluating” it, the Harrier Petrol (coming Dec 9) and Harrier EV (coming 2025) are the real priorities. A CNG version would likely be underpowered or too niche for this segment.

Conclusion: If you want a cheap-to-run Harrier, wait for the EV. If you want a powerful one, buy the Diesel or the new Petrol.

What do you think? Would you buy a ₹25 Lakh SUV that runs on CNG? Share your thoughts below.