2020 Tata Harrier: Which variant to buy?

Launched in January 2019 with a single 140hp engine and 6-speed manual combo, the Tata Harrier has been updated for the BS6 era. The 2.0-litre diesel engine sees a power hike to 170hp and Tata Motors has also introduced a much-wanted automatic transmission option. The variant line-up has been rejigged with the update as well, with more features across the board. Both gearbox options and trims accounted for, the 2020 Tata Harrier is available in a total of 16 versions with prices ranging from Rs 13.69-20.25 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India). Which one makes the most sense for you? Read on to know.

Which Tata Harrier gearbox option is right for you?

The extra 30hp of power has enhanced the 2020 Tata Harrier’s driving experience and as an added plus, engine refinement is much improved too. The manual gearbox-equipped Harriers have also benefitted with a smoother clutch, though the clutch engagement is still not progressive, which is something we had highlighted in our in-depth road test of the Harrier last year. In comparison, the new Harrier automatic comes across as more instantly likeable. The Hyundai-sourced 6-speed automatic transmission is well in tune with the 2.0-litre Kryotec engine’s characteristics, and offers smooth and timely shifts. Manual shifts via the gear lever also let you take control when you are in the mood. All in all, it’s the automatic-equipped Harrier that we’d recommend over the manual gearbox version.

Ok…but which trim gets what?

Now that we’ve narrowed the list down to the automatics, let’s take a closer look at the trims on offer. While manual versions of the Harrier are available in nine variants, the Harrier automatic is available in seven, namely, the higher-spec XMA, XZA, XZA Dual Tone, XZA Dark Edition, XZA+, XZA+ Dual Tone and XZA+ Dark Edition form. Spec to spec, the automatic trims are about Rs 1.25-1.3 lakh pricier than their manual equivalents. The table below has the details:

 

The entry-level Harrier automatic XMA variant (Rs 16.25 lakh) gets standard safety kit, such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Corner Stability Control (CSC), hill-hold assist, traction control, roll over mitigation and a rear wiper/washer. On the outside, the Harrier XMA makes do with 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, projector headlamps and front fog lights. Interestingly, the entry-level Harrier automatic also gets the multiple drive modes for the engine (Eco, Sport and City), a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six speakers, steering-mounted controls, electrically adjustable ORVMs and a six-way adjustable driver’s seat.

The mid-spec XZA (Rs 18.80-19.00 lakh) costs about Rs 2.55 lakh more but adds much more safety kit and creature comforts. Added safety features over the Harrier XMA include four more airbags, hill-descent control, off-road ABS, ISOFIX child-seat mounts and a rear parking camera. The exterior of the Harrier XZA features Xenon HID projector headlights, LED DRLs and 17-inch alloy wheels, while the interior comes with faux wood trim, brown leatherette upholstery, and leather-wrapped steering and gear lever. In terms of feel-good features and tech, auto headlamps and wipers, cornering front fog lamps, 7.0-inch part-digital instrument cluster, push-button start-stop system, automatic climate control, cruise control, power folding wing mirrors, rear armrest with cupholders, and 60:40 split folding rear seats are standard on this trim. Infotainment duties are taken care of by an 8.8-inch touchscreen unit that is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. Do note that the Dual Tone and Dark Editions cost Rs 10,000 and Rs 20,000 more, respectively, adding just the cosmetic changes indicated by their names.

The range-topping Harrier XZA+ (Rs 19.99-20.25 lakh) adds Rs 1.2 lakh to the price tag but comes with a massive panoramic sunroof, an auto-dimming inside rear view mirror and also gets a powered driver’s seat. Again, dual-tone and all-black versions are on offer too.  

Which Tata Harrier automatic variant is right for you?

Money no object, it’s the range-topping Tata Harrier XZA+ that would get our vote as the version to buy. However, if you don’t expect to make use of the panoramic sunroof and don’t mind the absence of powered seat adjust, you’ll find a good deal in the Harrier XZA. It offers the convenience of an automatic transmission and also gets all the features you’d want for justifiable money.

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