Used SUV buying guide: Tata Harrier

GOOD FOR: Spacious cabin, Tough build

LOOK OUT FOR: Electrical issues, Interior rattles 

The Harrier was Tata’s flagship SUV at launch in 2019 and it wowed us with its striking looks, spacious and quality interior, and build quality. The Harrier is an ideal candidate for anyone looking for a comfortable highway cruiser with good high-speed road manners. Used examples of the SUV have now started to filter through into the market at decent prices, but there are some things to consider before buying one.

The Harrier is a diesel-only model that uses a Fiat-sourced 2.0-litre engine, which powers the front wheels. However, where the BS4 version puts out 140hp and 350Nm, the BS6 version was upgraded to put out 170hp, while the torque remains the same. The BS6 Harrier also gained the option of a Hyundai-sourced 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox to go along with the 6-speed manual it was initially offered with. It’s best to go for the BS6 version for its more powerful engine, and preferably with the smooth automatic gearbox for its added convenience. That’s not to say that you’ll be disappointed with a manual, it’s just that the automatic feels better suited to the Harrier’s nature.

In terms of equipment, the top-of-the-line XZ+ trims are equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7.0-inch screen for the part-digital instrument cluster, a JBL sound system, leather upholstery, reverse camera, automatic headlights and wipers, automatic climate control, cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, six-way adjustable powered driver’s seat, auto-dimming IRVM, and two-tone, diamond-cut alloy wheels. Standard safety features include dual airbags, ABS, EBD and ESP (introduced as standard in BS6 version). Higher trims also get four more airbags, traction control, hill start and descent control.

At launch, the Harrier was available in four variants – XE, XM, XT and XZ – but Tata has kept updating the SUV periodically with new variants, more features and special editions. Currently, the Harrier can be had in XE, XM, XT, XT+, XZ, XZS and XZ+ trims, along with the Dark Edition and Kaziranga Edition. The Dark Edition, as the name suggests, gives the Harrier an all-black treatment inside and out, while the Kaziranga Edition is finished in a Grassland Beige paint with black wheels and roof. There was also a Harrier Camo edition on sale, finished in a dark green shade.

It’s best to go for the XZ variant or above, as they’ll help you see the Harrier in its best light with all the feel-good features. However, if you’re restricted by budget, even the mid-level XM and XT variants will do you just fine, but be prepared to miss out on some equipment. And even though looks are subjective, the Harrier does look its best in either the dual-tone colour scheme or the Dark Edition, where it looks decidedly sinister.

The Harrier has proven to be fairly reliable thus far, with reports of mechanical faults being few. Our resale value study last year also proved that the Harrier holds its value well, so you won’t lose as much money as you would expect when you go to sell it. The SUV is also backed by Tata’s widespread service network throughout the country.

Buyer, beware…

Electrical Issues

Some owners have complained about electrical gremlins on their Harrier, mainly to do with the infotainment screen. There have been reports of the system freezing and crashing abruptly and the buttons to control it stopping to function. A few have also noted that the reverse camera display doesn’t show up despite the SUV being in reverse gear. Before buying, make sure you test out the system thoroughly for any of these aforementioned issues.

Interior Rattles

Few Harrier owners have also noticed some form of rattling coming from either the door panels or behind the dashboard once they get older. On a test drive, go through a rough patch of road and listen for any noise inside the cabin.

Also worth knowing

The Harrier comes with a standard warranty of 2 years/1,00,00km which can be extended up to 5 years/unlimited km. Preferably, look for an example that has the extended warranty package which will provide you peace of mind.

How much to spend

Rs 15 lakh-20 lakh

Buying a used Harrier for anywhere between Rs 15 lakh-20 lakh, depending on the version, would represent decent value. You can also try to haggle and bring the price down for the SUV. Do note, it is possible to get an example for cheaper, but it will be a BS4 version in one of the lower-spec trims with high mileage.