In the fiercely competitive Indian automotive market, the Tata Harrier has carved out a niche for itself as a stylish, feature-packed SUV that punches above its weight.
Since its introduction, this homegrown hero has been turning heads and challenging perceptions about what Indian automakers can achieve. Let’s dive deep into what makes the Tata Harrier a compelling choice for SUV enthusiasts.
Design That Demands Attention
The Tata Harrier’s design language, dubbed ‘IMPACT 2.0’, is nothing short of striking. It’s a vehicle that looks like it’s in motion even when standing still, with bold lines and a muscular stance that exudes confidence.
The front fascia is dominated by sleek LED daytime running lights positioned high on the hood, while the main headlamps are set lower in the bumper – a unique arrangement that gives the Harrier a distinctive face.
From the side, the Harrier’s SUV credentials are unmistakable. A strong character line runs from the front fender to the wraparound taillights, accentuating the vehicle’s length and giving it a dynamic profile.
The floating roof design, achieved through blacked-out pillars, adds a touch of modernity and visual lightness to the overall silhouette.
At the rear, the Harrier continues to impress with its wide stance and connected taillight design.
The dual exhaust finishers and skid plate-style bumper insert reinforce its rugged appeal. It’s a design that manages to be both sophisticated and adventurous – a difficult balance that Tata has struck with aplomb.
Heart of the Beast
Under the hood, the Tata Harrier packs a punch with its 2.0-liter Kryotec turbocharged diesel engine. This powerplant, sourced from Fiat and refined by Tata, churns out a healthy 170 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque.
It’s an engine that provides ample grunt for both city driving and highway cruising, with a strong mid-range that makes overtaking a breeze.
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic, catering to different driving preferences.
The automatic, in particular, has been praised for its smooth shifts and ability to keep the engine in its power band. For those who enjoy a more engaging drive, the manual offers crisp shifts and a clutch that’s light enough for daily use.
Riding on Solid Foundations
The Harrier’s underpinnings are one of its strongest suits. Built on the OMEGA (Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced) Architecture, derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform, the Harrier boasts excellent ride quality and handling characteristics.
The monocoque construction provides a good balance of rigidity and weight, contributing to the SUV’s composed road manners.
The suspension setup, featuring independent MacPherson struts up front and a twist-blade setup at the rear, soaks up road imperfections with ease.
Even on rough patches, the Harrier maintains its composure, offering a plush ride that’s among the best in its class. The well-tuned electric power steering provides good feedback, making the Harrier feel more nimble than its size would suggest.
Cabin Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Harrier, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s both spacious and well-appointed.
The dashboard design is modern, with a floating 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. The use of soft-touch materials and premium textures elevates the interior ambiance, giving the Harrier a upmarket feel.
Seating comfort is a strong point, with well-bolstered front seats and a rear bench that offers ample legroom and headroom.
The panoramic sunroof, available on higher trims, floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of space.
On the technology front, the Harrier doesn’t disappoint. The infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
The JBL sound system, with its 9 speakers and amplifier, delivers an immersive audio experience. Other notable features include a semi-digital instrument cluster, multi-drive modes, and an electronic parking brake – features that were once the domain of more expensive SUVs.
Safety First
Tata has always prioritized safety, and the Harrier is no exception. The SUV comes equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard.
Advanced driver assistance features like electronic stability program, hill hold control, and hill descent control add an extra layer of safety, especially in challenging driving conditions.
The Harrier’s body structure, designed with high-strength steel, provides excellent crash protection.
This commitment to safety has been recognized by Global NCAP, with the Harrier scoring a commendable 5-star rating in adult occupant protection.
On-Road Performance
Behind the wheel, the Harrier impresses with its refined driving dynamics. The diesel engine, while audible at idle, settles into a smooth hum at cruising speeds.
The torque-rich nature of the powerplant means that the Harrier feels responsive in most driving situations, with minimal turbo lag.
In urban environments, the Harrier’s commanding driving position and light steering make it easy to maneuver despite its size. The excellent all-round visibility, aided by a rearview camera and parking sensors, takes the stress out of tight parking spots.
On the highway, the Harrier truly comes into its own. The stable ride and well-insulated cabin make long journeys a pleasure.
The engine’s strong mid-range ensures that overtaking is a breeze, while the well-judged gear ratios keep the motor in its sweet spot.
Efficiency and Ownership Experience
For a vehicle of its size and performance, the Harrier delivers respectable fuel efficiency. Tata claims figures of around 14-16 km/l, which, in real-world conditions, translate to about 12-14 km/l – impressive for a large SUV.
Tata’s after-sales network has seen significant improvements in recent years, with expanded service centers and better parts availability. The company offers a standard warranty of 2 years/100,000 km, with options to extend this for added peace of mind.
Tata Harrier : A Homegrown Hero
The Tata Harrier represents a coming of age for the Indian automotive industry. It’s a vehicle that can hold its own against international competitors, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and value.
While it may not be perfect – some might find the diesel-only powertrain limiting, for instance – the Harrier’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
For those in the market for a mid-size SUV that offers presence, comfort, and capability in equal measure, the Tata Harrier deserves serious consideration.
It’s not just a great Indian car; it’s a great car, period. With continuous improvements and updates, Tata has shown its commitment to keeping the Harrier at the forefront of the SUV segment.
In a market flooded with choices, the Tata Harrier stands tall as a testament to what Indian engineering and design can achieve.
It’s a bold statement on wheels, one that continues to win hearts and change perceptions, one drive at a time.