Tata Harrier EV Vs Diesel: Feature, Powertrain & Technology Breakdown

Tata Motors has taken a major step into the future with the official debut of the Harrier EV in India, an electric SUV that boasts not only strong performance but also some of the most advanced features seen in any Tata vehicle to date. While the EV retains the signature Harrier look, it’s a very different machine under the skin compared to its diesel sibling. From pricing to powertrain and tech specs to design, here’s an in-depth comparison of the Harrier EV and Harrier diesel to help potential buyers choose the right fit.

Variants and Pricing Strategy Compared

The all-new Harrier EV is initially available in three trims: Adventure, Fearless, and Empowered. At launch, only the base Adventure trim has been officially priced, starting at ₹21.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Higher trims, including the Empowered variant, are expected to be priced above the top-spec diesel version. Tata also plans to release a special Stealth Edition for the EV with an all-black design theme for added exclusivity.

In comparison, the Harrier diesel offers buyers a much wider variant lineup—16 trims to be precise—ranging from the base Smart variant priced around ₹15 lakh to the fully-loaded Fearless+ Stealth Edition which tops out at ₹26.50 lakh (ex-showroom). This variety gives diesel customers more flexibility in terms of budget and feature preferences.

Electric Performance vs Traditional Diesel Muscle

The Harrier EV introduces a fresh take on Tata’s SUV dynamics with its next-gen Acti.ev platform. It offers two battery choices: a 65 kWh pack that powers a single rear motor delivering 238 hp, and a 75 kWh version that adds a 158 hp motor up front, enabling all-wheel drive and a combined 313 hp with 504 Nm torque. The top-end AWD variant offers a certified range of 622 km, while the RWD variant with the same battery provides slightly better range at 627 km. Charging is another highlight—120kW DC fast charging can power the battery from 20 to 80 percent in just 25 minutes, while a 15-minute top-up can deliver 250 km of range.

On the other side, the Harrier diesel retains its rugged appeal with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine sourced from Fiat. It produces 170 hp and 350 Nm of torque and is paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. While it may not match the EV’s acceleration or silence, it remains a dependable choice for long-distance touring and traditional SUV lovers.

Technology and Cabin Features Get a Major Boost

When it comes to technology, the Harrier EV is clearly positioned as a flagship model. It comes with a massive 14.53-inch infotainment display using Samsung’s Neo QLED tech, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, and an illuminated four-spoke steering wheel. A sleek rotary terrain mode selector allows toggling between multiple drive modes, including Rock, Snow, Sand and more. Add to that a 10-speaker JBL audio system with Dolby Atmos, ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, ambient lighting, auto park assist, vehicle-to-load and vehicle-to-vehicle power transfer features, and the Harrier EV clearly aims to deliver a luxurious experience.

The Harrier diesel also scores well in the feature department, offering a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, the same digital driver’s display, dual-zone climate control, ventilated seats, a powered tailgate, panoramic sunroof, and wireless charging. It’s high on comfort and modern functionality, but slightly trails the EV in terms of innovation and digital architecture.

Smart Connectivity and Safety Technologies

The Harrier EV debuts TiDAL—Tata Intelligent Digital Architecture Layer—that powers a range of connected features. These include over-the-air software updates, voice-activated commands, and a novel DrivePay feature allowing FASTag and charging payments without a phone. It also gets a 540-degree surround camera, built-in dashcam, blind spot detection, and Level 2 ADAS capabilities with seven airbags for enhanced occupant protection.

Meanwhile, the diesel version offers similar safety equipment including Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, and up to seven airbags. While it may lack some EV-exclusive digital touches, it’s still very much on par with segment safety expectations.

Exterior Styling and Colour Personalisation

Design-wise, the EV version retains the bold silhouette of the Harrier but adds some EV-specific cues such as a closed-off grille, new bumper styling, silver skid plates, and exclusive aerodynamic alloys. Colour options include five unique shades like Empowered Oxide and Nainital Nocturne.

The diesel Harrier, however, offers more choices with eight distinct colours including Ash Grey, Coral Red, and Sunlit Yellow. The availability of special edition themes like the Dark and Stealth editions make it an equally stylish proposition for those who enjoy customisation.

Which Harrier Should You Choose?

If futuristic tech, silent drives, and eco-conscious motoring appeal to you, the Harrier EV stands tall as Tata’s most advanced SUV yet. It packs strong performance, high-end features, and excellent range. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a tried-and-tested powertrain, greater affordability across more variants, and the freedom of traditional fuel stops, the Harrier diesel remains a solid choice.