New Tata Safari VS Harrier Detailed Comparison

Tata Motors recently introduced the new-gen Safari in the Indian market. The all-new model of the SUV looks very different from the previous-gen model but seems quite identical to that of the Harrier. Tata Safari is the 3-row version of Tata Harrier, with subtle cosmetic and feature updates on outside and inside. The new-gen Safari was first showcased last year at the 2020 Auto Expo as Gravitas. In its segment, it rivals with the likes of MG Hector Plus and upcoming new-gen Mahindra XUV500. Here’s a detailed comparison between 2021 Tata Safari and Harrier. 

Design and looks

As we have told you before that the 2021 Safari looks very similar to Harrier, but there are still some differences between both SUVs. Upfront, both SUVs gets aggressive-looking LED DRLs and projector headlamps positioned on the lower part of the bumper. The front grille offered in Tata Safari looks quite different as it features a lot of chrome inserts, which also enhance the premium quotient of the SUV, while Harrier gets a piano black front grille.

Other than that, the front profile of the SUV remains the same. The biggest change is on the side profile of the SUV. On the side, Tata Harrier gets 17-inch wheels, while the 2021 Safari employs 18-inch rims. The alloy design of both SUVs remains the same. The 2021 Tata Safari is 63mm longer than Harrier and this increased length gives Safari a bolder look. It also gets a stepped roof rail with Safari badging on it. The rear profile of both SUVs is almost the same. Tata Safari gets a different looking rear bumper and faux skid plate. Moreover, it also features faux dual exhausts, which looks quite sporty. Tata Safari is 80mm taller than Harrier, and this makes the all-new Tata SUV look more imposing.  

Interior and features

Inside, Tata Safari looks very similar to that of the Harrier, but there are also a few differences. The wooden inserts on the dashboard area of Safari are painted in dark grey colour shade, while the wooden inserts inside Harrier feature brown colour. Moreover, Tata Harrier is offered with a dark interior, while the new-gen Safari employs very light cream tone upholstery on the lower dashboard and door pads. Due to this, the cabin feels airier, but this colour tone is very light, and you need need to take care of it if you live in a dusty environment.

The equipment lost on both SUVs is almost the same. Both SUVs gets an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, connected car-tech, a six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, a premium 9-speaker audio system from JBL, cruise control, a 7-inch display for the instrument cluster, an auto-dimming IRVM, drive modes, a panoramic sunroof, Xenon HID projector headlamps and much more.

In terms of safety features, both SUVs gets hill hold control and hill descent control, rear parking camera, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors, six airbags, ESP-based terrain response mods, traction control, rollover mitigation, corner stability control and electronic stability program.

Additionally, the new-gen Tata Safari gets an electronic parking brake with auto hold, and it comes equipped with four disc brakes. The 2021 Tata Safari also accommodates an extra row of seats. It is offered with 6-and 7-seater configuration. The third-row seats are spacious enough to accommodate two passengers at once.

Powertrain

Mechanically, both SUVs are powered by a 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel mill, which is capable of shredding out 170 PS of peak power and 350 Nm of twisting force. Transmission duties are done by a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The driving dynamics of both SUVs are quite sorted. The engine offers a good amount of grunt and the engine performance can be felt, while drives these cars in Sports mode. The new-gen Safari offers better braking performance as it comes equipped with four disc brakes, while the Harrier gets disc brakes upfront and drum brakes at the back. Tata Harrier accelerates slightly faster than the Safari. Overall, both SUVs offer a plush ride and its quite fun to drive both SUVs in city, highways or twisty roads.