In the world of SUVs, few names evoke the same excitement and curiosity as the Tata Harrier. Launched in 2019, the Harrier quickly gained a reputation as one of the most formidable offerings in the Indian automotive market. Combining bold design, advanced technology, and robust performance, the Tata Harrier stands as a testament to Tata Motors’ commitment to delivering world-class vehicles. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore what makes the Tata Harrier a top contender in the competitive SUV segment.
Bold and Dynamic Design
The Tata Harrier’s design is a significant departure from conventional SUV aesthetics, making it an instant head-turner. Based on the IMPACT 2.0 design philosophy, the Harrier boasts a bold front fascia with sleek headlamps and a muscular stance that commands attention on the road. The unique floating roof design, with its elegant chrome accents, adds a touch of sophistication, while the prominent wheel arches give it a rugged and powerful look.
The SUV’s exterior design is complemented by its range of striking color options, including the popular Calypso Red, Orcus White, and the elegant Camo Green, which perfectly match its adventurous spirit. The Harrier’s large dimensions also contribute to its imposing road presence, making it a favorite among SUV enthusiasts who appreciate a vehicle that stands out from the crowd.
Advanced Technology and Features
Inside the Tata Harrier, you’ll find a tech-savvy interior that’s as functional as it is stylish. The SUV comes equipped with an 8.8-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, which supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless connectivity with your smartphone. The infotainment system is also linked to a premium 9-speaker JBL sound system, delivering an immersive audio experience for both the driver and passengers.
One of the standout features of the Harrier is its semi-digital instrument cluster, which combines a 7-inch TFT display with analog dials to provide key information at a glance. The cluster displays vital information such as speed, navigation directions, and vehicle diagnostics, allowing drivers to stay informed without taking their eyes off the road.
For added convenience, the Tata Harrier is equipped with features like a push-button start, automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, which floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the overall driving experience. The spacious cabin, with its premium materials and ergonomic design, ensures that long journeys are comfortable for all occupants.
Performance and Engine Options
Under the hood, the Tata Harrier is powered by the Kryotec 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine, which is derived from Fiat’s MultiJet II engine—a reliable and proven powertrain used in several SUVs worldwide. This engine produces a robust 170 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque, delivering strong acceleration and excellent highway cruising capabilities.
The Harrier is available with both manual and automatic transmission options, catering to a wide range of driving preferences. The 6-speed manual gearbox offers precise and smooth gear shifts, while the 6-speed torque converter automatic provides effortless driving in city traffic and on long journeys.
Tata Motors has also introduced multiple driving modes—Eco, City, and Sport—allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their needs. The Terrain Response Modes—Normal, Rough, and Wet—ensure optimal traction and control in varying road conditions, making the Harrier a versatile performer both on and off the road.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for Tata Motors, and the Harrier reflects this with its comprehensive safety suite. The SUV is built on the OMEGA (Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced) platform, which is derived from Land Rover’s D8 architecture. This platform provides a solid foundation, ensuring structural integrity and occupant protection in the event of a collision.
The Tata Harrier comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including six airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, and hill hold assist. The vehicle also includes Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard across all variants, enhancing stability during sudden maneuvers or on slippery surfaces.
Additionally, the Harrier is equipped with a reverse parking camera with dynamic guidelines, front and rear parking sensors, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), all of which contribute to a safer driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Despite its powerful performance, the Tata Harrier manages to deliver impressive fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for daily commutes and long trips. The diesel engine is designed to be fuel-efficient without compromising on power, with the manual variant delivering a mileage of approximately 16.35 km/l and the automatic variant offering around 14.63 km/l.
Tata Motors has also made efforts to reduce the Harrier’s environmental impact by incorporating low-emission technologies that comply with the latest BS6 emission standards. This makes the Harrier not only a powerful and efficient SUV but also an environmentally responsible choice.
Variants and Pricing
The Tata Harrier is available in several variants, each offering a different set of features to cater to diverse customer preferences. These include the XE, XM, XT, XZ, and the top-spec XZA+ variant. The pricing is competitive, starting from approximately INR 14 lakhs for the base variant and going up to around INR 21 lakhs for the fully-loaded version.
For those looking for additional luxury and exclusivity, Tata Motors occasionally releases special editions of the Harrier, such as the Harrier Dark Edition and the Harrier Camo Edition, which offer unique styling elements and features.
Conclusion: The Perfect Blend of Power, Style, and Technology
The Tata Harrier has firmly established itself as a strong contender in the SUV market, offering a perfect blend of power, style, and advanced technology. Whether you’re navigating city streets, cruising on the highway, or exploring off-road trails, the Harrier delivers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and reassuring.
Its bold design, comprehensive feature set, and commitment to safety make it an ideal choice for those seeking a premium SUV that stands out from the crowd. As Tata Motors continues to innovate and expand its product lineup, the Harrier remains a flagship model that showcases the brand’s dedication to quality, performance, and customer satisfaction.
If you’re in the market for an SUV that offers value, style, and performance, the Tata Harrier should be at the top of your list.