By Ashish Masih
257 Views
Tata's latest SUV gets EV tech along with 4x4 system. Is it worth it? Ashish Masih has the answer.
The Harrier EV immediately stands out with its bold, clean design that subtly distinguishes it from the ICE version. The closed-off front grille with a satin-finish panel, connected LED DRLs, and aero-optimized bumper give it a futuristic look without losing the Harrier’s SUV stance. The EV-specific alloy wheels and revised tailgate with a full-width light bar add sophistication.
What’s impressive is that despite the added battery pack, the Harrier EV maintains its rugged proportions—wide track, muscular fenders, and high ground clearance, hinting that this EV isn’t just a soft-roader but retains its adventurous DNA.
Step inside and the Harrier EV feels more premium than ever. The dashboard is a dual-tone mix of soft-touch materials with gloss accents. The centerpiece is a large 14.5-inch infotainment screenpaired with a10.25-inch digital driver display and a new touch-based HVAC control panel.
The front seats are well-bolstered with ample under-thigh support, electric adjustability, and ventilation. The elevated driving position offers a commanding view of the road, and the wide glass area gives the cabin an airy feel. Visibility is excellent thanks to the redesigned A-pillars and the addition of a digital IRVM which eliminates rear blind spots.
Fit and finish have seen a noticeable improvement compared to older Tata interiors; panel gaps are tighter and switchgear feels more premium.
The rear bench is where the Harrier EV’s 2,741 mm wheelbase really pays off. Legroom and knee room are generous, and the flat floor makes it comfortable even for three passengers. The seat base offers good under-thigh support, while the backrest recline angle is slightly more relaxed than before, making it ideal for long journeys.
Battery placement under the floor hasn’t eaten into cabin height significantly, though taller passengers may notice a slightly raised floor compared to the diesel Harrier. AC vents, USB-C charging ports, and ambient lighting make the second row a comfortable, tech-rich space.
One of the most surprising aspects of the Harrier EV is how Tata has balanced the extra weight of the battery pack. The low center of gravity makes the SUV feel more planted in corners than the ICE version. There’s minimal body roll for a vehicle of this size, and steering weight is well-judged—light at parking speeds and reassuringly firm at highway pace.
The suspension is tuned on the firmer side, but it soaks up potholes and undulations well. Over sharper bumps, you can feel a bit of thud due to the added battery mass, but it never gets uncomfortable. On highways, the Harrier EV cruises effortlessly, feeling solid and stable even at triple-digit speeds.
The Harrier EV is offered withtwo battery packs:(RWD)producing around235–240 PS and 315 Nm delivering up to310–315 PS and 500 Nm
On test, the75 kWh AWDvariant impressed with instant torque delivery. 0–100 km/h comes in just over 6 seconds, which is sports-sedan territory for an SUV this size. Power is delivered smoothly, with selectable drive modes (Eco, City, Sport) altering throttle mapping and regen levels.
TheRWD versionfeels more relaxed but still provides enough punch for overtakes and highway cruising. Regenerative braking with multiple levels allows for near one-pedal driving in the city, making urban commutes effortless.
Futuristic yet rugged design, retaining Harrier DNA
Premium cabin with huge infotainment upgrade and better fit-finish
Spacious and comfortable second row, family-friendly
Balanced ride and handling; feels planted and confidence-inspiring
AWD variant offers sports-car acceleration with EV refinement
Could Be Better:
Firmness over sharp bumps noticeable at low speed
Raised second-row floor due to battery packaging
Software/UI still needs more polish in infotainment and ADAS responsiveness
The Tata Harrier EV successfully bridges the gap between rugged SUV capability and modern EV sophistication. It’s not just an electrified version of the diesel Harrier—it feels like a more refined, tech-packed evolution. With strong range, engaging performance, and family practicality, the Harrier EV sets a new benchmark for Indian electric SUVs.