In a bold move that has sent ripples through the automotive industry, Tata Motors has unveiled the latest iteration of its flagship SUV, the Tata Harrier.
This new version, which hit the market recently, represents a significant leap forward in design, technology, and performance, solidifying Tata’s position as a formidable player in the highly competitive SUV segment.
A Design That Turns Heads
The new Tata Harrier is a visual treat, building upon the striking design of its predecessor while introducing fresh elements that give it a more commanding presence on the road.
The front fascia has been reimagined, featuring a wider grille with a distinctive diamond mesh pattern that exudes sophistication and aggression in equal measure. The sleek LED headlamps, now with integrated daytime running lights, sweep back elegantly, giving the Harrier a sharp, focused look.
Moving along the side profile, the Harrier’s strong character lines and muscular wheel arches remain, but with subtle refinements that enhance its aerodynamic efficiency.
The SUV now sits on newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels, which not only look premium but also improve the vehicle’s stance and road presence.
At the rear, the Harrier sports a redesigned LED taillight cluster, connected by a sleek light bar that spans the width of the vehicle, a design element that’s becoming increasingly popular in premium SUVs. This not only enhances the Harrier’s visual appeal but also improves its visibility on the road.
Powertrain: A Perfect Blend of Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the new Tata Harrier packs a punch with its upgraded powertrain options. The mainstay of the lineup continues to be the 2.0-liter Kryotec diesel engine, now available in two states of tune:
- The standard version produces a healthy 170 bhp and 350 Nm of torque, providing ample power for both city driving and highway cruising.
- For those seeking more thrills, Tata has introduced a high-output variant that churns out an impressive 200 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, putting the Harrier in contention with some luxury SUVs in terms of performance.
Both engine options come mated to a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, while a smooth-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic is available as an option, catering to those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience.
In a nod to increasing environmental concerns and stricter emission norms, Tata has also introduced a mild-hybrid system across the range.
This 48V system not only improves fuel efficiency but also provides a torque boost during acceleration, enhancing the overall driving experience while reducing the vehicle’s carbon footprint.
Interior: A Cocoon of Luxury and Technology
Step inside the new Harrier, and you’re greeted by an interior that’s a significant step up from its predecessor.
The cabin exudes a premium feel, with high-quality materials used throughout. Soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and brushed aluminum accents create an ambiance that’s on par with SUVs from luxury brands.
The centerpiece of the dashboard is a new 10.25-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, which not only looks sleek but also offers improved responsiveness and a user-friendly interface. This system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity for occupants.
Behind the steering wheel, a fully digital 7-inch instrument cluster provides all essential information in a clear, easy-to-read format. The display is customizable, allowing drivers to prioritize the information that’s most important to them.
Comfort features have been given a significant boost in the new Harrier. The SUV now offers ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium JBL sound system with 9 speakers, creating a truly immersive audio experience.
The rear seats have also been redesigned for improved comfort, with better thigh support and increased legroom.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
One of the most talked-about features of the new Tata Harrier is its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite.
This marks Tata’s entry into the realm of semi-autonomous driving technology, a first for an Indian manufacturer in this segment. The ADAS suite includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keep Assist
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Detection
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Traffic Sign Recognition
These features not only enhance the safety quotient of the Harrier but also make it a more relaxing vehicle to drive, especially on long journeys.
Off-Road Capabilities
While the Harrier has always been more of an urban SUV, Tata has not forgotten its adventurous side. The new model comes with an improved Terrain Response System, which now offers four modes: Normal, Wet, Rough, and Snow.
This system adjusts various vehicle parameters, including throttle response, traction control, and ABS intervention, to provide optimal performance in different driving conditions.
The addition of an electronic locking differential further enhances the Harrier’s capability in challenging terrain, making it a more versatile SUV that’s equally at home on city streets and light off-road trails.
Connectivity and Smart Features
In keeping with the times, the new Harrier is more connected than ever. Tata’s iRA (Intelligent Real-time Assist) connected car technology has been updated, offering features like:
- Remote vehicle operations (engine start/stop, climate control)
- Real-time vehicle diagnostics
- Over-the-air software updates
- Geofencing and location tracking
- Emergency assistance
The system can be controlled via a smartphone app, allowing owners to stay connected with their vehicle even when they’re not behind the wheel.
Safety: A Top Priority
Safety has always been a strong suit for Tata Motors, and the new Harrier takes this commitment to the next level. In addition to the ADAS features mentioned earlier, the SUV comes equipped with:
- 6 airbags as standard across all variants
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Control and Hill Descent Control
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- 360-degree camera system
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
These features, combined with the Harrier’s robust OMEGA (Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced) Architecture, derived from Land Rover’s D8 platform, make it one of the safest SUVs in its class.
Market Positioning and Competition
With its blend of striking design, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the new Tata Harrier is positioned to take on established players in the mid-size SUV segment.
It goes up against formidable competitors like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Hector, and even some lower variants of luxury SUVs.
Tata has adopted a smart pricing strategy, offering the Harrier at a slight premium over its predecessor but still undercutting many of its rivals when it comes to features-per-rupee.
This positioning allows the Harrier to appeal to a wide range of buyers, from those looking to upgrade from compact SUVs to those considering entry-level luxury SUVs.
Initial Market Response
Since its launch, the new Tata Harrier has garnered significant attention from both the media and potential buyers. Dealerships across the country have reported a surge in inquiries and test drive requests, indicating strong initial interest in the vehicle.
Automotive journalists who have had the opportunity to drive the new Harrier have been largely positive in their assessments. Many have praised the SUV’s improved refinement, powerful engine options, and the addition of ADAS features, which are still relatively rare in this segment in India.
Future Prospects and Variants
Looking ahead, Tata Motors has hinted at expanding the Harrier lineup further. Rumors suggest that a petrol variant, possibly featuring a turbocharged engine, could be in the works. This would allow the Harrier to cater to buyers in cities where diesel vehicles face restrictions or those who simply prefer petrol engines.
There’s also speculation about a possible seven-seater variant, which would allow Tata to compete in the growing three-row SUV segment. Such a variant could potentially share its underpinnings with the Harrier but offer a longer wheelbase and a more spacious interior.
Environmental Considerations
In line with global trends towards sustainability, Tata has made efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the Harrier’s production and operation. The mild-hybrid system is a step in this direction, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
Moreover, Tata has announced that a significant portion of the materials used in the Harrier’s construction are recyclable, and the company has implemented more environmentally friendly manufacturing processes at its production facilities.
Tata Harrier : A Game Changer for Tata Motors
The new Tata Harrier represents more than just an update to an existing model; it’s a statement of intent from Tata Motors. With this vehicle, Tata has demonstrated its ability to produce a world-class SUV that can compete with the best in the segment, not just in India but potentially in global markets as well.
The Harrier’s combination of striking design, advanced technology, robust safety features, and competitive pricing positions it as a strong contender in the highly lucrative mid-size SUV segment.
It not only elevates Tata’s brand image but also sets a new benchmark for Indian manufacturers, showing that they can produce vehicles that are on par with international standards.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on electrification and autonomous driving technologies, the new Harrier serves as a platform for Tata to introduce these advanced features to the Indian market. It’s a vehicle that looks not just at the present but also towards the future of mobility.
For consumers, the new Tata Harrier offers a compelling package that combines the practicality and ruggedness of an SUV with the comfort and features often associated with premium vehicles. It’s a testament to how far Indian automotive engineering has come and a glimpse of what we can expect in the future.
As the Harrier hits the roads across India, it’s clear that Tata Motors has a winner on its hands. The true test, however, will be in how the vehicle performs in the long run and how well Tata can build upon this success to further strengthen its position in the automotive market. One thing is certain: with the new Harrier, Tata has set a new standard in the Indian SUV segment, one that competitors will be scrambling to match.