Tata confirms seven-seat Harrier to launch within 2019

EXCLUSIVE!

Even as it gears up to launch the much-awaited Harrier on January 23, it’s an open secret that Tata Motors is concurrently readying a seven-seat version of the Harrier. But now, it’s official - the company has confirmed the news, and also mentioned a timeframe for the launch of this bigger variant of the Harrier.

Speaking to Autocar India, Guenter Butschek, CEO & MD, Tata Motors, said the seven-seat Harrier will be part of a “firework of launches in calendar year 2019”. 

Now to tell you what we know about it. Just like the five-seat version, the seven-seat Harrier will be based on Land Rover’s D8 platform (which also underpins the Discovery Sport), and freeing up space for two extra passengers should be easy enough. We can also confirm that the seven-seat version of the Harrier will have a 62mm longer rear overhang compared to the standard Harrier (taking the overall length up to 4,660mm) to accommodate a third row of seats. But while the length will change, both SUVs will have the same 2,741mm wheelbase. Styling aft the C-pillar is expected to be slightly different with the Harrier’s pinched rear quarter windows likely to make way for a larger glass area.   

What will be different is the name. The seven-seat version of the Harrier will carry a different name in order to differentiate it from the five-seater.  More importantly, the seven-seat SUV will get a more powerful, BS VI-compliant version of the Harrier’s 2.0-litre Kryotec diesel engine, and it could make in excess of 170hp and 350Nm of torque. This engine will also likely make it to the five-seat Harrier at around the same time. Transmission options for the seven-seat Harrier will include a 6-speed manual and a Hyundai-sourced 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox.

With the five-seat Harrier estimated to be price between Rs 16-21 lakh (on-road), expect the seven-seat version to sport a premium price tag.

Which features missing from the Harrier would you like to see on the seven-seat variant? Let us know in the comments.

Also see:

Tata Hornbill micro-SUV concept to debut at Geneva

Tata Harrier vs rivals: Specifications comparison

2019 Tata Harrier review, test drive

2019 Tata Harrier video review

from Autocar India http://bit.ly/2TFg5LT
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