Buying a new car in India is a big decision. You have so many things to consider, right? Your budget, the safety of your loved ones, monthly maintenance costs, the latest features that make your drive easier, and of course, the reliability of the company service. It's a lot to juggle!

But what if there was an SUV that ticked most of these boxes, and then some? Enter the new Tata Harrier Petrol Fearless X Plus. Tata Motors has always been a strong player in the Indian market, especially with their focus on safety and robust build quality. With the Harrier, they've already made a mark, and now, with the much-awaited petrol engine option, it's set to shake things up even more. Let's dive deep and see if this Harrier variant is the perfect SUV for you.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The biggest news here is the introduction of a potent petrol engine. The Harrier Petrol Fearless X Plus is expected to come with Tata's new 1.5-litre TGDi (Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, promising a blend of performance and refinement.

• Type: 1.5-litre TGDi Petrol Engine
• Power: Approximately 170 PS
• Torque: Approximately 280 Nm
• Transmission: Expected with both Manual and Automatic (likely a DCT / AT option)

Design Overview

The Harrier recently received a significant facelift, and the Fearless X Plus variant showcases the best of this refreshed design.

• Exterior: It boasts a bolder, more muscular stance. The front features a striking new parametric grille, redesigned bumper, and eye-catching connected LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) that stretch across the width of the car. The sleek, connected LED tail lamps at the rear give it a premium signature. New alloy wheel designs complete the contemporary look, making heads turn on Indian roads.
• Interior: Step inside, and you're greeted by a completely revamped cabin. The new dashboard design is modern and premium, using high-quality materials and a sophisticated dual-tone theme. Ambient lighting adds to the luxurious feel, while the new four-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo is a nice touch. Space and comfort remain strong points, especially for five occupants.

Key Features

The Fearless X Plus trim is loaded with features that enhance convenience, comfort, and entertainment.

• Infotainment System: A large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
• Driver Display: 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, highly customisable.
• Connectivity: Advanced iRA connected car technology with over 200 features.
• Sunroof: A massive panoramic sunroof, perfect for those scenic drives.
• Parking Aid: 360-degree surround view camera system for easy parking in tight spots.
• Charging: Wireless phone charging pad.
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalised comfort.
• Ventilated Seats: Ventilated front seats (driver and co-driver) for hot Indian summers.
• Convenience: Powered tailgate, multi-mode drive selector, electric parking brake with auto hold.

Ground Clearance

The Tata Harrier offers a healthy ground clearance, making it suitable for varying Indian road conditions, from city potholes to mild off-roading.

• Ground Clearance: 205 mm

Boot Space

For those weekend getaways or airport runs, the Harrier provides ample boot space.

• Boot Space: 445 litres

Dimensions

Understanding the size helps you picture its road presence and parking ease.

• Length: 4605 mm
• Width: 1922 mm
• Height: 1718 mm
• Wheelbase: 2741 mm

Powertrain Options

While the Harrier has been known for its strong diesel engine, the petrol option adds a new dimension.

• Diesel: 2.0-litre Kryotec Diesel Engine (170 PS, 350 Nm) with 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic transmission.
• Petrol (Focus): 1.5-litre TGDi Petrol Engine (approx. 170 PS, 280 Nm) with 6-speed Manual or Automatic (DCT / AT) transmission. This is the new, anticipated petrol heart of the Harrier, offering a refined and powerful driving experience for those who prefer petrol SUVs.

Safety Features

Safety is a cornerstone of Tata Motors, and the Harrier Petrol Fearless X Plus is packed with advanced safety tech.

• Airbags: 6 Airbags (standard across facelift variants); top trims may offer 7 airbags (including driver's knee airbag).
• ADAS: Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems including Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and High Beam Assist.
• Electronic Aids: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS with EBD, Hill Hold Control, Hill Descent Control, Traction Control.
• Monitoring: Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

NCAP Rating Table

The Tata Harrier has set new benchmarks in safety, achieving a perfect 5-star rating in the latest safety tests.

Note: The Bharat NCAP rating is for the updated 2023 Tata Harrier, reflecting its enhanced safety standards.

Rivals of Tata Harrier Petrol Fearless X Plus

The Harrier Petrol enters a competitive segment, battling it out with other popular SUVs:

• Mahindra XUV700 Petrol
• MG Hector Plus Petrol
• Hyundai Creta 1.5 Turbo Petrol (top variants)
• Kia Seltos 1.5 Turbo Petrol (top variants)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros

• Striking Design: The facelifted Harrier looks incredibly modern and premium, both inside and out.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Loaded with segment-leading technology and comfort features, making every journey enjoyable.
• Uncompromised Safety: A 5-star Bharat NCAP rating gives immense peace of mind.
• Expected Strong Performance: The new 1.5L turbo petrol engine should offer spirited driving dynamics.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: The suspension is well-tuned for Indian roads, soaking up bumps with ease.
• Strong Road Presence: Its size and design command respect on the road.
• Improved Build Quality: Noticeable enhancements in fit-finish and overall cabin quality.

Cons

• Petrol Mileage: While performance will be good, expect the mileage to be lower compared to its diesel counterpart.
• No 7-seater Option: If you need a third row, you'd have to look at the Tata Safari.
• Potential Higher Pricing: The top-end petrol variant with all its features and new engine might come at a premium price point.
• Rear Visibility: The thick C-pillar design can slightly impede rear visibility for some drivers, though the 360-degree camera helps a lot.

Conclusion

The Tata Harrier Petrol Fearless X Plus emerges as a highly compelling package for Indian car buyers looking for a powerful, feature-rich, and incredibly safe SUV. With its bold design, advanced technology, and the promise of a refined petrol engine, it truly stands out in a crowded segment.

If your priorities include a head-turning exterior, a feature-loaded and comfortable cabin, top-tier safety, and the convenience of a petrol engine, then the Harrier Petrol Fearless X Plus deserves serious consideration. It perfectly blends the ruggedness expected from an SUV with the sophistication of modern automotive engineering. We recommend you take a test drive to experience its capabilities first-hand and see if it aligns with your driving needs and lifestyle. Tata has certainly hit it out of the park with this one!