Introduction
Tata Motors is taking steps to compete with rivals by introducing updated versions of its Harrier and Safari SUVs. The new Harrier starts at Rs 15.5 lakh, while the new Safari begins at Rs 16.2 lakh (ex-showroom).
Refreshed Design and Features
Since their initial launch, both the Harrier and Safari have gained acclaim for their strong road presence. The facelifted versions bring a refreshed profile and a touch of sportiness. They incorporate Tata's new design language, inspired by the Curvv concept expected to reach production in 2024. This design language has already been adopted in the new Nexon and Nexon EV.
The new design language is adaptable for both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric powertrains setting the stage for future electric versions of the Harrier and Safari. The focus is on achieving a futuristic appearance which makes these SUVs look high-tech and feature-rich.
Key highlights of the facelifted Harrier and Safari include new headlamps, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), a light bar, sequential turn indicators, a revised grille, and updated bumpers and the SUVs also offer new and exciting color options such as Sunlit Yellow for the Harrier and Cosmic Gold for the Safari. Additionally, sporty 19-inch alloy wheels with aero inserts are available. At the rear, these SUVs feature interconnected LED tail lamps.
Enhanced Interior
The interior of the Harrier and Safari has received significant upgrades. It now includes a spacious 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker JBL sound system, a voice-assisted panoramic sunroof with mood lighting, customizable themes, and a front armrest with cooled storage. The Safari offers both first and second-row ventilated seats. Similar to the new Nexon, the updated Harrier and Safari will feature a new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo.
Improved Safety - 5-Star Global NCAP Rating
While Tata cars are known for their safety, the Harrier and Safari have yet to prove their crash test credentials. However, this has changed. Both models have undergone crash testing and received an impressive 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP according to the revised 2022 crash protocols.
Tata Motors has always been dedicated to vehicular safety. The results of the crash tests for the flagship SUVs, the Safari and Harrier, are in. They achieved a stellar 5-star crash rating from Global NCAP, marking one of the final results for Global NCAP's campaign before Bharat NCAP activation in the coming months.
Global NCAP tested the Safari and Harrier for frontal and side impact protection, electronic aids, adult and child occupant protection, and pedestrian protection. The tested model was a 5-door SUV weighing 2,119 kg, designed for the Indian market.
As part of the facelift, Tata has made six airbags, seat belt reminders, electronic stability control (ESC), anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and many other safety features standard across the variant lineup. The tested vehicles were also compatible with UN 129 and GTR9 pedestrian protection systems.
Impressive Safety Performance
In the adult occupant safety assessment, the Tata Safari and Harrier scored a total of 33.05 points, which is impressive considering the maximum score is 34 points. In terms of child occupant protection, the Safari and Harrier scored 45 points out of a maximum achievable 49 points. The body shell was rated as stable, and the tests revealed mostly good and adequate protection for adult occupants, except for marginal protection for the driver's chest in the side pole impact test.
In the frontal offset deformable barrier test, the Safari and Harrier scored 15.047 points, and in the side movable deformable barrier test, they scored 16 points. In the child occupant safety assessment, Harrier and Safari registered 24 out of 24 points in the dynamic score, 12 out of 12 points in the child restraint system installation score, and 9 out of 13 points in the car assessment score. With these results, Tata solidifies its safety credentials across its lineup, starting with a 4-star rating for the Tiago and Tigor and now achieving a 5-star rating for the Nexon, Altroz, Punch, and the newly launched Harrier and Safari flagship SUVs.
New Safety Features
The facelifted Harrier and Safari models come equipped with new safety features, including seven airbags, advanced electronic stability control with 17 functions, and 11 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features. These models benefit from the robust OMEGARC platform, a derivative of Land Rover's D8 platform.
Tata Motors has refreshed its Harrier and Safari SUVs with a new design language, enhanced interior features, and most importantly, impressive safety enhancements earning them 5-star Global NCAP ratings and these updates position the Harrier and Safari to compete effectively in the SUV market while offering a safer and more appealing driving experience for customers.