Tata Harrier: The Harrier is a turning point for the Indian automotive industry; it signifies a transformation and a coming of age for Tata Motors, a company increasingly proud of evolving from a value brand to an aspirational, design-centric, global one.
Debuted from scratch in 2019 and heavily updated in 2023, the Harrier is the top of the line product from Tata in the midsize SUV segment and takes on the prominent names from foreign countries with its unique personality.
Design Language
Harrier was the vehicle that brought Tata’s IMPACT 2.0 design philosophy into the market which was a split headlamp system, wherein the daytime running lights are split from the lower positioned main headlight units on the bumper.
This unique, aggressive front end look is paired with a large front grille and extended hood, combining to form a powerful road presence.
From the side, it shows clean, flowing lines, and flared wheel arches which accommodate 18in alloy wheels.
Statistically speaking Despite the large size of the vehicle, the visual lightness is emphasized by means of the floating roof design with a blacked-out D-pillar.
The rear features linked LED taillights stretching across the tailgate to elevate the look of the vehicle.
The Harrier also looks nothing like any Tata car before it, its design DNA can best be traced back to its origins – the Land Rover-derived OMEGA architecture (Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced), which bestows it with proportions and stance rarely seen amidst homegrown offerings.
Cabin Experience
In the cabin, the Harrier provides a modern dashboard design with a floating 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system as the centerpiece.
The multi-layered dashboard features oak wood treatments, soft-touch materials and brushed aluminium trims for added perceived quality.
The view from the driver’s seat is outstanding, despite the high beltline and the seating position is nice and lofty.
Premium appointments include:
Panoramic sunroof
9-speaker JBL audio system
Ventilated front seats
Digital instrument cluster
Multi-zone climate control
Smartphone integration via phone booth without wireless connection
Air purifier with AQI display
Inside space is generous for five adults, with abundant knee and headroom. The 425-litre boot (with the back seats folded) is also quite sizeable with plenty of space for your gear.
Performance Credentials
The Harrier is powered by a 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel motor sourced from Fiat which generates 170 hp along with 350 Nm of torque.
The Transmission options on the Ford EcoSport include both Manual and Automatic gearbox with 6-Speed gear shift.
Monocoque with front-wheel drive provides a chassis capable of balanced handling for its sizable dimensions.
The Terrain response system has three drive modes – Eco, City, and Sport – which changes throttle and transmission for the conditions.
The complex suspension setup doesn’t have independent front suspension and a twist-beam rear arrangement but what’s good for us is that its tuned more for ride comfort rather than outright handling – another decision that suits Indian road conditions.
Pros of the Tata Harrier
Commanding Presence: Unique design and hefty proportions means you won’t be lost in the crowd.
Strong Built: The land giant of a platform ensures amazing built quality and sturdiness.
Ride Comfort: Fantastic ride quality over different types of road.
Superb Package (Features): The extensive list of equipment is at par or better than the competition from the land of the Rising sun.
Safety Rating: The 5-star Global NCAP rating is a reflection of Tata’s safety configuration.
Cons of the Tata Harrier
Diesel-Only Engine: With no petrol option on getting, fails to attract some buyers in a growing petrol-biased market.
Fuel Efficient Worries: The strong diesel returns less impressive efficiency figures than some competitors.
Refinement Holes: For all the gains, some NVH traits are off the pace in comparison with the leading international premium contenders.
Feature Performance: Some electronic features are sometimes erratic and unresponsive.
No AWD: For an SUV, AWD is a must for more adventurous off-roading.
Tata Harrier: Market Impact
The Harrier has done well to drive Tata Motors deep into the premium mid-size SUV segment and be a viable answer to established players such as Hyundai, Kia, and MG.
This perfect blend of unique looks, generous cabin space and aggressive pricing has struck a chord among Indian car buyers who didn’t want to opt for the established international brands as their favourite ride.
The Harrier’s success has also given Tata the confidence to launch bigger products, like its seven-seat sibling, the Safari.
Collectively, these two flagship models have changed the way Indian automotive engineering and design is seen and have transformed Tata from a volume brand to something with true premium pretensions.
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