Tata Harrier : The Tata Harrier has established itself as a significant player in the competitive Indian SUV market. With its commanding road presence, a design inspired by Land Rover, and a recent facelift that introduced a host of new features and technology, the Harrier has a lot going for it. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Tata Harrier a compelling choice for many car buyers and what you should consider before making a decision.
Design and Road Presence: A Head-Turner
The first thing you’ll notice about the Tata Harrier is its sheer size and striking design. The updated model features a bold, modern front fascia with a connected LED DRL strip that gives it a futuristic and premium look. The design language is muscular and robust, ensuring the Harrier stands out in a crowd. It’s a car that commands attention, and for many, that’s a huge part of its appeal. The Harrier also offers unique variants like the “Dark” and “Stealth” editions, which appeal to those who prefer a more sophisticated, all-black aesthetic.
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Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Tata Harrier is powered by a 2.0-liter Kryotec turbocharged diesel engine that delivers a healthy 168 bhp and 350 Nm of torque. This engine, shared with the Jeep Compass, provides strong performance, making highway cruising effortless and city overtakes confident. You have the choice between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The automatic gearbox, in particular, is praised for its smooth and seamless shifts, making it a great choice for urban and highway driving.
While the engine performance is strong, it’s worth noting that it can be a bit noisy, especially under hard acceleration. However, the Harrier’s ride and handling are a definite highlight. Built on a Land Rover-derived platform, it offers a mature and stable ride, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. The steering is well-weighted and responsive, giving you a sense of confidence on the road.
A Feature-Packed and Safe Cabin
The interior of the Tata Harrier is a big step up, especially with the recent facelift. The cabin feels premium, with a modern, layered dashboard and high-quality materials. Key features include:
- Large Touchscreen Infotainment System: A massive 12.3-inch Harman touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Digital Driver’s Display: A 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster that provides a wealth of information.
- ADAS Features: The Harrier now comes equipped with Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), including features like Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Keep Assist, among others.
- Comfort and Convenience: Other standout features include a panoramic sunroof with voice control, a powered driver’s seat with memory function, and ventilated front seats for enhanced comfort.
Safety is a top priority for Tata, and the Harrier is no exception. It has been awarded a full 5-star safety rating by both Bharat NCAP and Global NCAP, offering excellent protection for both adult and child occupants. It comes with up to 7 airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and a 360-degree camera.
Mileage: What to Expect in the Real World
The ARAI-certified mileage for the Tata Harrier is 16.8 km/l for both manual and automatic variants. However, real-world mileage can vary significantly depending on driving conditions and your driving style. On average, owners report getting around 10-11 km/l in the city and 13-15 km/l on the highway. While these numbers are reasonable for a car of this size and weight, they may not be the most fuel-efficient in the segment.