Tata Motors has recently updated the Harrier for the Indian market and when compared to the outgoing model, it is more good-looking and feature-loaded. Wondering how it stands against the Jeep Compass? We have tried covering even the smallest detail to find out.
2023 Tata Harrier
The 2023 Harrier is all about bold lines, commanding design and massive road presence. At no point in time, you will feel that it is something compact in terms of size. Thankfully, the outline of the Harrier might feel old school but the modern touches it has received make the SUV futuristic. For starters, it now gets DRLs that run all the way from one end to the other. Then, the introduction of a new headlamp assembly, new bumper, revised grille and front fog lamps with cornering function help enhance the front profile.
Coming to the side profile, there are rugged roof rails offering an SUV-ish stance to the Harrier and surprisingly, the new alloy wheels with aero inserts further push the style quotient to the next level. Similarly, the rear profile has received some minor changes in the form of connected tail lamps and new housing for rear fog lamps.
Inside the cabin, the 2023 Tata Harrier is feature-loaded and has received massive changes in terms of styling. The theme from hereon will be based on the Persona the customer has opted for and similarly, the features will also rely on the same. The top-end variant of Harrier is loaded with a new multi-function steering wheel, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, massive touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats and 10-speaker JBL surround system to name a few.
In terms of safety, it comes equipped with a maximum of seven airbags, three-point seat belts, a tyre pressure monitoring system, ESP, electronic parking brake, rollover mitigation, TC, ABS with EBD and ADAS among others.
It is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine sourced from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Tuned to produce a massive 170 horsepower and 350Nm, this power unit can be paired either with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. For added convenience, the 6-speed automatic gearbox gets premium paddle shifters for an unmatched experience.
Of course, the absence of a 4×4 option sometimes reminds you that it is not a hardcore SUV. However, the availability of terrain response modes that include – Normal, Tough and Wet works with the traction to offer the best from those front wheels. Now, the carmaker is also giving you the option to play with the power delivery. As a result, three drive modes (Eco, City and Sport) are also there on offer.
Price: Rs.15.49 Lakhs to Rs.26.44 Lakhs (ex-showroom, Mumbai)
Jeep Compass
Unlike the Harrier, Jeep Compass uses a more conventional design language but looks more imposing. Designed to impress, it comes with full LED projector headlamps, a sporty bumper and massive air intakes for enough cooling. The side profile of the SUV on the other hand features a distinctive arch offering a more tough look. Beneath these arches sit alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 18 inches depending upon the variant. The rear end of the SUV is simple but again works with the overall design.
The cabin of the Compass is also modern enough and is available with almost all the features one would ever require. To begin with, it comes loaded with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual pane panoramic sunroof, 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, ventilation for the front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless charger, fully digital driver’s display and connected car tech among others.
Jeep has been at par with Germans when it comes to safety and time and again the brand has proved it. Available with world-class safety features, the SUV gets 6 airbags, an electronic parking brake, a tyre pressure monitoring system, electronic stability control, a 360-degree camera and hill assistance (start/descent) depending upon the variant.
The same engine that is powering Tata Harrier is available on the Jeep Compass. Available with 170 horsepower and 350Nm, it can be paired to either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic gearbox, as per the buyer’s requirement.
The only thing that makes it different from the Harrier in terms of powertrain is the availability of a 4×4 system limited to the top-end S(O) variant. Enhancing the traction further is the Selec-Terrain dial that comes with four modes including Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud, enhancing the performance of the 4×4 system.
Price: Rs.20.49 Lakhs to Rs.32.07 Lakhs (ex-showroom, Mumbai)
Tata Harrier Vs Jeep Compass: At A Glance
| Tata Harrier | Jeep Compass | |
| Length (mm) | 4605 | 4405 |
| Width (mm) | 1922 | 1818 |
| Height (mm) | 1718 | 1640 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2741 | 2636 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 205 | 178 |
| Engine | 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel | 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel |
| Power | 170 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 350Nm | 350Nm |
| Mileage | Up to 16.8kmpl | Up to 17.1kmpl |
| Price (ex-showroom, Mumbai) | Rs.15.49 Lakhs to Rs.27.34 Lakhs | Rs.20.49 Lakhs to Rs.32.07 Lakhs |
Verdict
Look at those massive dimension numbers that the all-new Harrier offers. It’s longer, wider and taller than the Jeep Compass and gives value for money if off-roading is something one can trade off. The touch points of Tata Motors are evenly spread across the country and that can be an added advantage of owning an SUV from Tata. Plus, it is decently priced and is available with ADAS exclusively. See, so many advantages.