Tata Harrier.ev First Drive Review - Homegrown Wattage

Not too long ago, the idea of a homegrown electric SUV that could rival international luxury brands in terms of performance, technology, and sheer desirability seemed like a distant dream. But here we are, under the overcast skies of Delhi, staring at Tata’s new Harrier.ev. A dream realised, or just a clever illusion?

The Harrier name has always carried weight and now, with the Harrier.ev, specifically the top-spec Empowered QWD 75 kWh variant, Tata is making bold claims – sportscar-like performance, go-anywhere ability, a 600-km range, and indulgent luxury. Can it deliver on all fronts and truly redefine what a premium electric SUV means in India? We set out to find out.

Tata Harrier.ev Design - Familiar Face, Electric Heart

At first glance, the Harrier.ev is instantly familiar, retaining the strong, muscular silhouette of its internal combustion engine (ICE) sibling. Look closer, though, and its electric personality comes into focus. The most noticeable change is the closed-off front grille, paired with a sleek, connected LED DRL that stretches across the width of the car, giving it a sharp, futuristic appearance. The 19-inch alloy wheels feature aero inserts, while discreet ‘.ev’ badges are the final nod to its electric identity. It’s a handsome evolution.

Step inside, and the premium feel carries through. This Empowered trim, with its light-coloured dual-tone cabin, feels airy and upmarket. Tata also offers different interior themes across variants – from sporty all-black to elegant bronze – adding a welcome dose of personalisation. The dashboard is dominated by a striking 14.53-inch Harman infotainment system powered by Samsung’s Neo QLED display tech, delivering crisp visuals and rich features. Alongside it sits a 10.25-inch digital cockpit, together creating an environment that feels thoroughly modern. But for many Indian buyers, the real star of the show will be the rear seat experience. With features like powered Boss Mode to maximise legroom, rear sunshades, comfort headrests, and two 65W fast-charging ports, it easily doubles as a space fit for chauffeur-driven owners.

Tata Harrier.ev Performance & Handling

This is where the Harrier.ev truly distances itself from both its predecessor and its rivals. The QWD (Quad-Wheel Drive) version uses a dual-motor setup, delivering 504Nm of torque to all four wheels. The result? A claimed 0 – 100 km/h time of just 6.3 seconds.

From behind the wheel, that performance is intoxicating – the Harrier.ev feels every bit as quick as the numbers suggest. Where the diesel Harrier feels sluggish off the line, the EV responds with an immediate, brisk bite. Step on the accelerator in Boost mode, and it surges forward with an urgency that pins you to your seat.

But it’s not just about raw acceleration. The power delivery is linear, and the chassis feels planted and composed, giving you a strong sense of control. The only letdown in terms of handling is the steering, which feels numb and vague at both low and high speeds, somewhat marring the overall drive experience.

An equally impressive chassis complement this newfound performance. Ride quality is phenomenal; the car stays calm and composed, gliding over bumps and potholes that would unsettle lesser vehicles. Yet this focus on comfort doesn’t come at the expense of agility. The Harrier.ev feels remarkably balanced around corners. The all-wheel-drive system provides immense grip, letting you hold your line without any drama. The brakes – a sore point in its ICE-powered sibling – have been improved, now offering the strong stopping power needed to rein in this electric powerhouse. That said, they still feel a bit soft under hard emergency braking.

Tata Harrier.ev Review Conclusion

The Tata Harrier.ev blends explosive performance and a luxurious, tech-packed cabin with the kind of ride comfort and practicality Indian families expect. With its potent dual-motor setup, long list of features, and well-balanced ride quality, the Harrier.ev is a new high for Indian-made luxury EVs. In fact, it’s a genuine contender capable of challenging the best in the premium SUV space. The only challenge Tata Motors must address is ensuring quality control and delivering consistent, top-tier after-sales service.