Tata Harrier & Safari Red Dark Editions Review: Aesthetic Powerhouses

If there's one manufacturer that deserves the tag of holding the record for most special editions, then Tata Motors tops that list. Right from the Camo Edition to the Kaziranga, to the Gold Edition to the Jet Edition, to the Adventure Editions, and finally the #Dark Editions, Tata Motors makes sure that it has a little bit of something special for everyone. And then there's the new Red #Dark edition that we first saw at the Auto Expo 2023.

Both these big SUVs, the Harrier, and the Safari, get the new treatment, and although these come at a cost, it also brings in a whole bunch of gadgets to the game that, till now, were missing in these cars. So today, the agenda is to check both cars out and tell you if buying either of these makes sense.

Exterior

Now those who love a completely blacked-out car, the dark editions do a pretty good job, but with the Red #Dark Editions, Tata Motors says it has added a whole bunch of spices and the result is this. The difference is in the details because, at first glance, you won't be able to make out that this one is the Red #Dark edition.

But I'm happy with the way it looks now. Red inserts on the blacked-out grille, a fully blacked-out Tata badge both at the front and back, red brake calipers, and the Dark Red badge on the fender give a nice contrast and honestly make the car look meaner than before. But then again, on the go, it's hard to differentiate between the dark and the red dark editions, but that's until you get a glimpse of the inside.

It's worth noting that the Red #Dark Editions are designed to cater to buyers who appreciate a more distinct and exclusive appearance. For those seeking a vehicle that stands out from the crowd, the Red Dark Editions deliver a unique and visually appealing package.

Tech & Interior

I'm a sucker for bold colours, so the use of this solid red colour on the upholstery and other elements really pops out and looks extremely vibrant. The quality feels top-notch, and overall, it has a very youthful and sporty vibe to it. The next big upgrade on the inside is the larger touchscreen, and I'm so happy that the older unit has finally been replaced. That looked extremely small compared to the large proportions of the car, but these feel right at home.

It's a newer version, has an improved UI, and looks quite neat. It gets a bunch of customisation options, but those too are limited. Mind you, this is already available on the variants this special edition is based on, so you are basically paying for the red treatment. Yes, because apart from the red interiors, all the features are retained from the XZ and XZ+ trims that both these SUVs are based upon. Nonetheless, the 360-degree camera is a boon and displays in both 2D and 3D formats. The Bose sound system is fabulous.

Safety

One big addition to the Red #Dark range is the inclusion of ADAS functionalities. Now both SUVs receive Level 2 ADAS, but this is not the entire suite of functions that you normally get. Although it has some crucial features that make driving on our roads easy, the absence of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) really hurts considering its main rival in the segment, the MG Hector, and even the MG Hector Plus both receive it. But I'm happy to report that the rest of the features work flawlessly.

Ride & Handling

Both the Tata Safari and the Tata Harrier share the same engine option, a 2.0-litre diesel engine. In the case of the Tata Safari, its larger dimensions can make it feel slightly cumbersome to maneuver in tight city spaces. The longer wheelbase, which contributes to a smooth ride, can also impact its agility, making it feel less nimble compared to smaller SUVs. Additionally, the Safari's suspension, while tuned for comfort, may not provide the same level of sportiness or responsiveness as some competitors in its segment, particularly during spirited driving or cornering.

Similarly, the ride quality of the Tata Harrier is generally composed and stable, however, some may find it to be slightly firm, especially at low speeds. This firmness can result in a slightly stiffer ride, which may transmit minor road imperfections into the cabin, potentially affecting passenger comfort. Additionally, the Harrier's steering, although electric power-assisted and offering a good balance of lightness and responsiveness, may lack the precise feedback and directness that some enthusiasts prefer for an engaging driving experience.

Verdict

For buyers who prioritize style and individuality, the Red #Dark Editions can be an appealing choice. The exclusive color scheme and unique design elements can make a strong statement and turn heads wherever you go. Furthermore, these limited-edition models are likely to hold their value well over time, thanks to their exclusivity and desirability.

However, it's essential to consider other factors beyond aesthetics. The pricing of the Red Dark Editions might be slightly higher compared to the standard variants, considering the additional features and exclusive styling cues. Potential buyers should evaluate whether the premium attached to the special-edition models is justified for them.

Photography by: Jitendra