Tata's New Hyperion 1.5 TGDI Engine Explained

Tata Motors has engineered a major breakthrough with its in-house developed 1.5-litre TGDi petrol engine — a powertrain that places the brand firmly among global manufacturers capable of designing high-efficiency, performance-oriented petrol units. 

First revealed at the 2023 Auto Expo, this engine combines cutting-edge combustion and emissions technologies with the robustness required for Indian roads and fuel conditions.

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Developed at Tata’s Engineering Research Centre in Pune and its Coimbatore R&D facility, the 1.5-litre TGDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection) engine produces around 170 PS at 5,000 rpm and 280 Nm of torque between 2,000 and 3,500 rpm. 

With a displacement of 1,498 cc and a full-aluminium construction, it offers a power-to-weight ratio that rivals international turbo-petrol engines in its class. A smaller displacement version of the similar engine is being used in the current Curvv ICE range with 120PS output

Note-In the 2025 Tata Sierra this 1.5 TGDi is making 160 hp. The full 170 PS or 167 hp is likely reserved for upcoming Harrier and Safari with this engine 

Advanced Turbocharging and Airflow Management

At the heart of the TGDi’s performance lies an electronically controlled variable-geometry turbocharger (eVGT). Unlike conventional fixed-geometry units, the eVGT uses an actuator to alter turbine vane angles in real time. 

This allows the turbo to deliver strong boost at low rpm for instant response while maintaining high efficiency at top speeds. 

The system effectively eliminates lag and provides a broad torque band, making the engine suitable for both city and highway driving.

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Complementing the turbo system is a centre-mounted dual variable valve timing system (VVT) that independently adjusts timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. 

This optimises airflow and combustion at every rpm, improving throttle response, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.

 The central mounting reduces mechanical losses and ensures uniform timing control across all cylinders, leading to smoother performance.

Combustion Efficiency and Durability

The engine’s combustion chamber has been precision-designed to handle high pressures and temperatures generated by turbocharging. It uses sodium-cooled exhaust valves, a feature usually found in high-performance engines.

 These valves contain hollow stems partially filled with sodium that liquefies when heated. During operation, the liquid sodium circulates heat away from the valve head to the stem, reducing thermal stress and preventing valve seat wear. 

This allows the engine to sustain high exhaust gas temperatures safely, improving reliability under continuous load.

To further enhance durability and efficiency, Tata employs friction-optimised steel piston rings. 

These rings have a low-tension design and a specialised surface coating that reduces mechanical drag between the piston and cylinder wall. Lower internal friction directly translates to better fuel economy, reduced oil consumption, and longer engine life without compromising sealing performance.

Emissions Control and Thermal Management

The TGDi engine features an integrated exhaust manifold that channels gases through a three-way catalytic converter positioned close to the engine block.

 This configuration ensures rapid light-off (quick heating of the catalyst) after startup, allowing early reduction of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides. 

The three-way catalyst simultaneously supports oxidation and reduction reactions, enabling the engine to meet Bharat Stage 6 Phase 2 standards and compatibility with E20 ethanol-blend fuels.

Tata’s engineers have focused heavily on thermal management.

 Alongside the sodium-cooled valves, the engine uses a high-capacity intercooler and a variable-flow oil pump to regulate temperature under different loads. The combined system maintains consistent performance without detonation, even in extreme ambient conditions.

Modular and Future-Ready Design

The TGDi’s all-aluminium block, eVGT turbo, and adaptable ECU architecture make it a modular platform ready for hybrid integration or future emission upgrades. Its compact dimensions and balanced NVH characteristics allow it to power multiple upcoming Tata models, including the and Sierra and later safari and Harrier

With this engine, Tata Motors has demonstrated complete technical ownership  from design and calibration to testing and emissions validation. The 1.5-litre TGDi is not just a new engine; it is the foundation for Tata’s next generation of performance-focused and cleaner internal combustion vehicles