The new Tata Safari 2021 is not simply an updated version of the Tata Harrier, although it shares many similarities. Both vehicles use the same 1956 cc diesel engine producing 168 bhp, and they have the same transmission options. However, the Safari is 63mm longer and 80mm taller than the Harrier, accommodating a third row of seats, which significantly enhances its practicality and utility. The Safari also features additional amenities such as an 8.8-inch floating island infotainment system, iRA connected tech, 3rd-row AC vents, and disc brakes on all four wheels. While the Harrier has a slightly better power-to-weight ratio due to its lower kerb weight, the Safari offers more headroom and legroom for the third-row occupants, making it a distinct and more feature-loaded option.

It's actually actually because of the exclusivity of the Dark Edition that I've networked in ways I wouldn't have expected. Other Harrier owners I’ve met at service centers and parking lots have been great professional connections.

It depends on what you value. If you like unique aesthetics and are willing to pay a little extra for exclusivity, you should. If you are practical, however, the standard version provides the same functionality for a lower price.

The Harrier is great on road trips, with one thing I love about it being the massive boot space. I don’t have to worry about space constraints because I can pack everything I need. That's a real advantage over smaller SUVs.

I've had a minor fender bender with my Harrier Dark Edition and came out impressed with how it held up. The safety features kicked in as they should, the build quality is solid. Felt definitely safer than my previous car.

My Harrier Dark Edition’s infotainment system is decent but nothing mind blowing. While it's responsive enough for you to use it day in, day out, you will hit the odd stutter sometimes, particularly when used with Android Auto.

And I have used the Harrier’s ADAS on highways and it works surprisingly well. In moderate traffic, the adaptive cruise control works great and the lane keep assist is useful on well to mark roads. It's a good start for Indian conditions, not perfect by any means.

I test drove the Harrier and its competitors, and it's a mixed bag. In ride quality, space and overall refinement, the Harrier is a winner, but it does lag behind some rivals. That really depends on what your priorities are. If you like a tough build and don’t mind the rough edges, go for it. If you’re looking for a more polished experience look elsewhere.

The Harrier's infotainment is pretty impressive for an Indian made car. It’s not as polished as some European brands, but it’s packed full of features and easy to use. It also has a nice JBL sound system. It's not bad, I think it holds its own against most of its competitors in the segment.

I switched from a hatchback to a Harrier so I can say it took some getting used to. In narrow lanes, it feels massive and U turns can be a pain. The downsides of that are that they tend to be heavy, bulky, and require a large amount of space, but the benefits of space and comfort outweigh the downsides for me. Adapting your driving style is all it’s about.

I don't think we can judge the Harrier's long term reliability at this time. Certainly Tata has improved, but they still have a long way to go in catching up with brands that have been around for decades. I wouldn't make a verdict until a few more years.