Tata Harrier vs Harrier EV: What’s the Real Difference Beyond the Engine?
August 26, 2025
When it comes to picking between the Tata Harrier and the Tata Harrier EV, the decision involves more than just choosing between conventional fuel and electric versions. Both versions offer a commanding presence, robust features, and a host of tech advancements. However, under the surface, there are key distinctions in performance, platform, capability, and equipment that define the identity of each.
Let’s explore where the differences really begin and what you should consider before making your pick.
Powertrain and Drive System
Mechanical Underpinnings
| Aspect | Tata Harrier | Tata Harrier EV |
| Engine/Motor | Kryotec 2.0L Diesel | Electric (Single/Dual Motor) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual / Automatic | Automatic Only |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) / All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Torque Output | 350 Nm | Up to 504 Nm (Dual Motor Variant) |
| Boost Mode | Not available | Available (QWD Variant) |
| Terrain Modes | Up to 3 | Up to 6 |
The Tata Harrier EV offers more advanced driving flexibility with multiple terrain modes, paddle-based regenerative braking, and optional AWD with dual motors. In contrast, the Tata Harrier sticks to a traditional diesel drivetrain optimised for everyday road conditions.
Performance and Ride Quality
Both SUVs offer impressive driving dynamics, but the Tata Harrier EV comes equipped with frequency-dependent dampers and an independent multi-link rear suspension, offering a more refined ride, especially over varied terrains. The Tata Harrier, while capable, uses a semi-independent twist blade rear suspension, prioritizing balance over aggression.
Battery vs Fuel
| Aspect | Tata Harrier | Tata Harrier EV |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Electric |
| Tank / Battery Capacity | 50 litres | 65 kWh / 75 kWh Battery Packs |
| Real-World Range / Mileage | Approx. 16–18 kmpl (estimated) | Up to 505 km (estimated real-world range) |
| Charging | Not applicable | Fast Charging: ~25 mins (20-80%)* |
| Bi-directional Charging | Not available | Available (V2V and V2L Supported) |
*as per Tata internal testing
The Tata Harrier EV is equipped with bi-directional charging that enables it to power external devices, offering functionality beyond just transport.
Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment & User Interface
| Feature | Tata Harrier | Tata Harrier EV |
| Infotainment Screen | 31.24 cm HARMAN | Up to 36.9 cm Harman Neo QLED |
| Cluster Display | 26.03 cm Digital | 26.03 cm Digital (similar size) |
| Connected Car Suite | iRA with OTA Updates | iRA.ev with OTA and smartwatch control |
| Voice Assistants | Alexa, Google, Native | Multi-Assistant (UWB-enabled) |
| Arcade / App Suite | Available | Available with expanded support |
| Navigation | MapMyIndia | Mappls Auto with real-time integration |
The Tata Harrier EV is based on the SDV platform and acti.ev+ architecture, which supports enhanced software integration. It enables features like digital key access, UWB connectivity, and more advanced voice recognition across multiple languages.
Safety and ADAS Capabilities
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
| Feature Category | Tata Harrier | Tata Harrier EV |
| ADAS Level | Level 2 (up to 21 features) | Level 2 (up to 22 features in QWD variant) |
| Airbags | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Rear Collision Warning | Available in higher variants | Included in QWD variant |
| Blind Spot Detection | Available in upper trims | Blind Spot View Monitor also available |
| Park Assist | Manual and Camera Based | Auto Park Assist (APA) with 15 modes |
| Emergency Braking | Basic support | Pedestrian/Cyclist/Car AEB included |
The Tata Harrier EV, especially in the Empowered QWD variant, pushes boundaries with 540° view cameras, Transparent Mode, Reverse Assist, and full auto-parking capabilities.
Interior Features and Comfort
Both vehicles are offered in multiple personas with custom-themed interiors. However, the EV variants bring in extra tech and luxury finishes.
Comparison Highlights
| Feature | Tata Harrier | Tata Harrier EV |
| Powered Seats | 6-way Driver, 4-way Co-passenger | Same, with Boss Mode for rear comfort |
| Front Seat Ventilation | Available in top trims | Available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Voice-assisted with Mood Lighting | Same |
| Ambient Lighting | Dashboard and Roof | Dashboard, Roof, Doors, Console (Customisable) |
| Audio System | 10 Speaker JBL with Harman AudioWorX | JBL Black with Dolby Atmos |
| Smart Features | Smart E-Shifter, Wireless Charging | Smart E-Shifter, Arcade, DrivePay, HD DVR |
The Tata Harrier EV introduces features like a powered tailgate with gesture control, multi-level ambient lighting, an air purifier with AQI display, and a more premium infotainment system backed by Neo QLED technology.
Exterior Styling and Dimensions
Both models share near-identical dimensions and silhouette. Yet, their identities are expressed in subtle visual cues.
| Dimension / Feature | Tata Harrier | Tata Harrier EV |
| Length x Width x Height (mm) | 4605 x 1922 x 1718 | 4607 x 2132 x 1740 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2741 | 2741 |
| Boot Space (L) | 445 | 502 (with frunk) |
| Alloy Wheels | R17 to R19 | R18 to R19 with Aero inserts |
| DRLs and Headlamps | Sequential DRLs + Projectors | Connected DRLs + Bi-projectors |
| Sunroof | Available | Voice-assisted |
The Tata Harrier EV also includes logo projection ORVMs and a flat rear floor for added comfort. Matte body shades and carbon noir interiors on select editions bring a futuristic look to the electric version.
Platform and Architecture
The Tata Harrier is built on the OMEGARC platform derived from Land Rover’s D8 architecture. It’s tried, tested, and offers solid road manners.
The Tata Harrier EV, on the other hand, is built on the new acti.ev+ architecture, specifically designed for electric mobility. This foundation makes the EV variant future-ready, supporting software-defined vehicle features and modular battery integrations.
Verdict: Which One Fits You Better?
The Tata Harrier is ideal if:
- You prefer the familiarity and convenience of a diesel-powered vehicle.
- Your daily commute involves long-distance highway runs.
- You want solid performance without adapting to charging infrastructure.
The Tata Harrier EV is more suited if:
- You want zero tailpipe emissions and lower running costs.
- Tech features, smart controls, and premium interiors excite you.
- You need AWD with instant torque delivery for occasional adventure.
Both vehicles are engineered with care, equipped with top safety features, and designed for Indian conditions. Your decision comes down to lifestyle preference – traditional diesel comfort or future-focused electric versatility.
Recent Stories
- Kandla – Mundra Highway (NH-41) to Be Upgraded to Six Lanes
- Gujarat Govt Announces IAS Reshuffle
- AMC to Set Up Heritage Gallery at Sardar Patel Bhavan ‘A’ Block; Laser Show Planned
- AMC Approves Floating Solar Projects at Kankaria Lake, Sabarmati Riverfront & Lambha Lake
- Kankaria Lakefront Ahmedabad to Get Light-and-Musical Fountain, Candy Museum
