Tata Harrier Petrol Review: A Sophisticated New Chapter

You may recall our drive across the Atal Setu, with the diesel-powered Tata Harrier, “Indian Bridge, Indian Car.”  This time, however, in Faridabad, we acquainted ourselves with the much-anticipated petrol iteration of the Harrier, which now gets the much-discussed Hyperion engine. Shared with the likes of the Tata Sierra and recently also the Tata Safari, expectations were naturally elevated. The question, then, was simple: does it deliver the goods?

The Harrier has always been a standout SUV, and in this latest avatar, it continues to command attention with its grand road presence. Finished in the striking Nitro Crimson shade, the SUV sure turned quite a few heads. However, beyond the colour, it is the Harrier’s muscular design and robust build that truly distinguish it.

The front fascia is cohesively executed, and features connected LED DRLs, a split design, and a neatly integrated faux skid plate. The vertically stacked LED headlamps and fog lamps further enhance its upright, imposing stance. The bonnet lines are clean, purposeful rather than ostentatious.

Take a look at the side profile, and you will see that the Harrier exhibits elegant aerodynamic lines complemented by well-sculpted fenders. The silver Harrier badging adds a tasteful flourish, while the black cladding integrates seamlessly with the alloy wheels. The contrasting black roofline, paired with darkened lower elements, gives the Harrier a sleek yet dynamic silhouette.

At the rear, the design remains equally compelling. A spoiler, rear wiper, and distinctive LED tail lamps connected by a light bar create a modern visual signature. The prominently displayed Tata logo and Harrier lettering in silver add a touch of sophistication, while the faux skid plate gives it its rugged persona. Not typically inclined towards dual-tone schemes, I must admit that the Nitro Crimson with black roof combination looks nothing short of fabulous.

Step inside, and the Harrier welcomes occupants into a cabin without compromising on elegance albeit with what can be best described as “minimalistic.” The ivory leatherette ventilated seats immediately stand out, lending an airy and premium ambience to the SUV. The dual-tone dashboard, finished in black and ivory, is complemented by wooden inserts that may age gracefully over a period of time.

The cabin adopts a minimalist philosophy, with very few physical buttons, resulting in a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Glossy piano black surfaces further elevate the sense of sophistication.

A 14.5-inch infotainment system dominates the centre console, offering crisp visuals and is also a very intuitive one. Crucially, its size feels proportionate, neither overwhelmingly large nor a puny little thing. Just perfect. The 10.25-inch instrument cluster is information-rich, though a more restrained colour palette and improved legibility would enhance usability, particularly for drivers who use reading glasses.

In terms of how practical the cabin is there are cubby holes for your knick knacks, not to mention, multiple charging options, including wireless charging, USB-A, and a 65W USB-C port, that ensure connectivity on the move. The 10-speaker JBL sound system delivers an impressive acoustic experience, while the digital IRVM and adaptive ORVMs further enhance the Harrier’s technological prowess.

Additional highlights include a 360-degree camera with camera washers, a neat little touch, that ensures clear visibility in all conditions, and a panoramic sunroof that enhances the sense of space.

With a generous 2741mm wheelbase, rear seat comfort remains one of the Harrier’s strongest attributes.

The 445-litre boot further reinforces its practicality for extended road journeys.

At the heart of this iteration lies a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (with a manual option also available). Producing 170 hp and 280 Nm of torque, the Hyperion engine truly shines.

Admittedly, my expectations weren’t high because I felt that a 1.5-litre engine in a vehicle of this size might take the fun out of driving it. However, the Hyperion engine proved to be a revelation by being not just a responsive engine but by also offering a smooth performance.

During our drive, we found that the 6-speed torque converter automatic complemented the new Hyperion engine really well, offering seamless shifts across varying driving conditions. Of course, paddle shifters are also available, but we enjoyed driving the Harrier by slotting it in the Drive mode, through our drive wherein it delivered a consistent and refined performance.

Acceleration with the Hyperion engine is in fact, commendable, and while the Harrier is not exactly about “spirited” driving, it never feels lacking. According to the guys over at Tata Motors, the Miller Cycle contributes to improved fuel efficiency, making ownership more economical without compromising on performance. And just like before, the Harrier’s ride quality continues to remain one of its defining strengths. With a ground clearance of 205mm, it glides over uneven terrain with remarkable composure, insulating occupants from road imperfections with ease.

On the move, the SUV felt stable and planted, even when we drove it in a brisk manner. We drove the Harrier in the Eco and the Sport modes and frankly, you can easily tell the difference between them in a jiffy. Based on the kind of driving that you wish to indulge in, you can choose your favourite mode, depending on your mood and the traffic conditions of course.

While driving on bad roads and even while cruising on the highways, the Harrier maintained a poised and confidence-inspiring demeanour – super important which further adds to the SUV’s overall driving experience.

The Tata Harrier, in its petrol-powered avatar with the Hyperion engine, is a strategic move by Tata Motors for what I can call an already distinguished SUV. While the design and most of the core attributes remain familiar, the introduction of this refined powertrain and changes on the inside and a few tech additions make the Harrier more desirable by adding to its appeal.

For buyers seeking a robust, stylish, and technologically well-equipped SUV that delivers comfort, performance, and value for money, the Tata Harrier is undoubtedly a persuasive proposition. And in that striking Nitro Crimson with a black roof, it definitely isn’t just a mode of transport rather a powerful statement.