Of the numerous models that Tata has been swiftly launching, the Harrier is one of the marque's contenders in the SUV segment.

The Harrier is Tata’s competitor to the likes of the Kia Seltos and the MG Hector. Based on the Land Rover D8 platform, the Harrier is powered by a 1956cc inline four-cylinder diesel that puts out a healthy 170 PS. All those horses get on to the ground through either a 6-speed auto or a 6-speed manual, depending on the variant of the Harrier one chooses to bring home.

The Harrier, on the outside, is a sharp looking SUV. The main crease line flows upwards from the front towards the rear, defining the stance of this Tata. The front grill area is imposing and the wheel arches are pronounced and muscular. From every angle, there is no mistaking the Harrier as anything other than an SUV.

Enter the cabin, and the smartly laid out interiors are the first thing you will notice. Elegantly style and good fit and finish add a generous helping of opulence and elegance to the Harrier’s interiors. All occupants have more than adequate space and the rear most row, too, is fairly useable even for adults.

On the move, the Harrier’s diesel engine is a fairly sprightly performer. Although the turbocharger kicks in just below 2000 rpm, the lag is not pronounced as one might imagine. But once it spins up, the scenery begins to go past at a rather surprising pace. Highway cruising is where the Harrier is happiest and the engine’s stellar mid-range performance is testament to that fact.

Over potholes, only the deepest ones seem to get the better of the Harrier’s suspension. On the firmer side, the suspension feels robust and capable. Handling wise, the Harrier holds the road well, instilling enough confidence in the driver to make driving through the switchbacks a fun experience. That being said, the Harrier is an SUV at the end of the day and expecting it to corner like a sportscar with a ground clearance of an inch is being foolhardy.

Prices, ex-showroom, New-Delhi begin at Rs. 13.99 lakh for the base version with the manual gearbox while the top of the range variant with the automatic transmission will set you back by Rs. 20.45 lakh, ex-showroom, New-Delhi. Although it might not have as many features as the MG Hector, what you get for your money, when it comes to the Harrier, is a perfect example of Tata’s glorious tradition of making robust vehicles for India along with a significant slice of Land Rover’s legendary DNA as an attractive extra.