Tata Motors’ #Dark has hands down been the company’s most popular special edition range ever, and it all started with the Harrier back in 2019. So, earlier this year when Tata launched the new Harrier Red #Dark, along with similar iterations of the Safari and the Nexon, things came to a full circle. But it’s not just a new shade, in fact, the Harrier Red Dark also comes with RDE compliant engine, and a bunch of new tech including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Also Read: Tata Harrier Red #Dark Edition – Review
So, is the Harrier Red #Dark worth that extra premium? We will tell you about it in this crisp but comprehensive picture review.
The all-black treatment has been retained and for a large part, the SUV looks identical to the regular Harrier #Dark. That being said, there are some distinguishing elements that set the Harrier Red #Dark apart.
Also Read: Tata Nexon, Harrier, Safari Red Dark Editions Launched In India
While the #Dark badging is at its usual place, it's now treated in red colour, and you also get a red accent on the grille. Plus, Tata also offers red brake calipers for all four wheels, which add to the sportiness of the SUV.
Also see: 2023 Tata Harrier, Safari Bookings Open; First Tata SUVs To Get ADAS Function
Changes aside, the features list is quite extensive. The new Harrier Red #Dark comes with LED headlights, LED daytime running lamps, and LED taillights. Tata also offers a set of 18-inch charcoal grey alloy wheels and electrically operable outside rear-view mirrors.
The majority of changes made to the car are within the cabin, and the first things that will grab your attention are the Carnelian Red seats. Both the driver and front passenger get ventilation function, and will also find #Dark lettering embroidered on the headrests, also in red.
You get leather-wrapped grips, a well-designed centre console, a wireless phone charger, and a panoramic sunroof as well. The SUV also comes with a 6-Way power adjustable driver seat with three memory settings, automatic climate control and rear AC vents.
One major addition to the Harrier Red #Dark's cabin is the new 10.25-inch high-definition (HD) touchscreen infotainment display. The system is loaded with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a multi-language voice assistant.
One big addition to the Harrier Red #Dark range is the inclusion of ADAS functionalities. Under this, Tata offers features like – Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
The Harrier Red Dark also comes with a host of other active and passive safety features like - 6 airbags, an Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold function, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and 360-degree surround view cameras.
Powering the Harrier Red #Dark is an RDE (Real Driving Emission) compliant 2-litre diesel engine. That said, there is no change in power output. The motor continues to churn out 168 bhp at 3750 rpm while developing a peak torque of 350 Nm between 1750-2500 rpm.
The model we drove was the top-end XZA+ (O) equipped with a 6-speed automatic torque converter, and it is this variant that gets ADAS functionalities.
The engine is powerful enough to pull this mammoth of a vehicle with ease, but in the lower revs, there is a bit of delay in response. As for the gearbox, it’s not the quickest one out there but the shifts are smooth, and it does its job well.
The SUV handles all the undulations on the road with ease and keeps the occupants in total comfort. The steering too has a nice heft to it however, it lacks feedback. The steering is adjustable for both reach and height and with the power-adjustable seat, it offers good driving ergonomics. The NVH levels of the SUV are also very good.
The Harrier Red #Dark is certainly not cheap, but for that premium, you do get a lot of smart features like ADAS, voice assistant, and connected car tech, which certainly add value.
But, if this #Dark flavour is not something that interests you, then Tata does offer all those features with the regular top-of-the-line XZA+ (O) as well, and with that, you can save around Rs. 45,000.
