The Tata Harrier has established itself as a prominent player in the Indian mid-size SUV segment. Launched in 2019, it has garnered appreciation for its striking design, spacious interiors, and a feature-rich cabin.
Aesthetics That Command Attention
The Harrier boasts a bold and contemporary design that sets a commanding presence on the road. The signature cascading grille with chrome inserts, the sleek LED projector headlamps with DRLs, and the muscular stance exude a sense of dynamism.
The sculpted body lines and the chrome window line further accentuate its sophisticated appeal. The 2023 update introduced minor cosmetic changes to the bumpers and headlamps, keeping the Harrier fresh in the face of competition.
Spacious Interiors and Premium Feel
The Harrier offers a well-sized cabin with ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, making it suitable for families and long journeys. The quality of materials and the overall fit-and-finish have improved significantly in recent updates, offering a premium in-car experience.
The use of leatherette upholstery and soft-touch plastics elevates the cabin ambience. Features like a panoramic sunroof (optional), a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster (higher variants) enhance comfort and convenience for driver and passengers.
Engineered for Performance and Efficiency
The Harrier comes with a sole engine option: a 2.0-liter Kryotec diesel engine producing 170 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque. This engine offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both city commutes and highway cruising.
A 6-speed automatic transmission is available across all variants, providing a smooth driving experience. While some competitors offer a wider range of engine options, the Harrier’s diesel engine caters to a significant segment of SUV buyers in India seeking a powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain.
Safety First Approach
Tata Motors prioritizes safety in the Harrier. It has received a 5-star rating in crash tests conducted by Global NCAP, making it one of the safest cars in its segment. The Harrier comes equipped with six airbags (standard across variants), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), and corner stability control (CSC).
Higher-end variants boast additional safety features like Electronic Stability Program (ESP), traction control (TCS), and hill hold assist (HHA), ensuring comprehensive occupant protection.
A Feature-Rich Package
The Harrier offers a plethora of features, making it a compelling choice for tech-savvy buyers. Features like automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, and a cooled glove box (optional) enhance comfort and convenience.
Certain variants offer a 360-degree camera system and a terrain management system, further adding to the car’s functionality.
Standing Out in a Competitive Segment
The mid-size SUV segment in India is fiercely competitive. The Harrier stands out with its bold design, well-equipped cabin, focus on safety, and a feature-rich package. While some competitors offer petrol and hybrid options, the Harrier’s sole diesel engine caters to a specific segment of buyers.
Embracing the Future
The Indian automotive industry is witnessing a shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles. Tata Motors might consider introducing an electric or hybrid variant of the Harrier in the future. This would broaden the Harrier’s appeal to a wider audience seeking a balance between performance, features, and environmental sustainability.
In Conclusion
The Tata Harrier has carved a niche for itself in the Indian mid-size SUV segment. Its bold design, spacious interiors, focus on safety, and a comprehensive feature list make it a compelling choice for SUV buyers seeking a feature-rich and practical option. As the market demands for sustainable mobility solutions continue to grow, Tata Motors’ strategy regarding the Harrier’s powertrain options in the future will be crucial in maintaining its position in this competitive landscape.
