Tata Harrier revealed: Top 5 exterior design highlights

The Tata Harrier is finally out of covers and it is a looker. The new premium SUV from Tata’s stable was first showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo as the H5X Concept and this production-ready model has retained most of the design elements from the concept. Debuting the IMPACT 2.0 design philosophy, the Harrier gives you an impression of Tata-badged Land Rover Discovery Sport which is a good thing actually. Let’s have a detailed look at the design of the upcoming Harrier.

Double tier headlamps

The Harrier’s most striking feature are those two-tier headlamps. The uniquely-shaped headlamp units are positioned on the bumpers while there is a sleek LED strip mounted on top.  The H5X Concept had a three-pointed panel in that area finished in gloss black. Although there is no gloss finish on the Harrier, there is a black surround on the headlamps which integrate a projector as well. The fog lamps are positioned below the headlamps and that looks neat.  

The grille

An important detail on the fascia is the new mesh grille which has been done up in the same gloss black tone as the concept car. The grille is integrated into the LED strip and is positioned high up on the fascia. This is a new grille design, unlike anything that is seen on a Tata vehicle. There is another mesh grille below which is integrated with faux silver-finished skid plate. Interestingly, between these two grilles present is an air vent which looks like an afterthought and was not seen on the concept. However, looking closely, we can see that this vent centrally-paced and forms a design fluidity on the fascia.

Stylish rear

At the rear, there is a black applique running across the tailgate at the shoulder height. It is an integral part of the design but it makes the rear windshield narrower. And it also joins the striking LED tail lamp. There is a roof-mounted spoiler adding to the sportiness, while the body cladding on the bumpers adds the much-needed ruggedness. Compared to the concept, the overall design is the same but the elements have been changed in favour of production-ready bits. For example, the lighting unit on the side of the bumper from the concept is replaced by a simple reflective panel. The rear bumpers too get a skid plate but in the shape of a diffuser and there is a contrasting silver trim highlight as well.

Floating roof

The floating roof design of the concept is retained and how. There is a contrasting silver trim from the start of the A-pillar which runs all the way to the floating roof. This floating roof gives an effect of a singularity of the side profile and the rear windscreen. Even the bottom has a distinct design to it making the overall profile of the Harrier stand out. 

Flared wheel arches

One special element that makes the Harrier appealing are those massively flared wheel arches. Both the wheels get humongous wheel arches combined with black body cladding. These wheel arches make the silhouette muscular and give the Harrier a brawny stance. The cladded side skirts are complemented by body creases on the doors. Even the large ORVMs match the flared wheel arches perfectly. 

Overall, the Harrier is a handsome looking car as we expected it to be when we first saw the concept. If this is the how all future Tata’s will look, we can expect some fine-looking vehicles on our streets in the coming years.