Tata Harrier has quickly become the top-selling vehicle of its segment, leaving behind the likes of the Jeep Compass and the Mahindra XUV500. Some of the reasons for its popularity are its striking design, segment-leading features, great interiors and a decent diesel engine. The engine in question here is a Fiat-derived 2.0-litre Kryotec unit that comes mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Now, Tata has started testing the new BSVI compliant version of this engine on the Tata Harrier. According to a report by Autocar India, FCA has started testing the BSVI version of its 2.0-litre Multijet II diesel engine on the Jeep Compass and Tata Harrier. The BSVI emission standards will come into force from the 1st of April, 2020.
The image here shows the test vehicles with the Tata Harrier wearing a full camouflage while the red Jeep Compass with nominal camouflaging. This BSVI engine will make its Indian debut on the upcoming Jeep Compass Trailhawk. The new top-end variant of the Compass will be the first vehicle in India to feature the BSVI emission norms compliant version of FCA’s 2.0-litre Multijet II diesel engine. On the Compass Trailhawk, the engine will be mated to a 9-speed torque converter gearbox. Later on, other variants of the Compass SUV will also be updated with the same BSVI compliant engine.
Since Tata is using Fiat’s engine on the Harrier, it also will get the BSVI engine before the deadline next year, testing for which has already begun. What may sound even interesting to prospective Harrier buyers is the fact, as per the report, that the BSVI engine equipped Harrier will get a huge bump in power. As of now, this engine churns out 138 Bhp of power along with 350 Nm of torque. However, the BSVI compliant 2.0-litre diesel will put out around 170 Bhp of power, which is nearly the same as the Compass.
Moreover, the upcoming Tata Cassini, Harrier’s 7-seat cousin, will also get the same engine when it will be launched here by the end of this year. The power output on this SUV will be around 170 Bhp but it will also come with an automatic transmission, something that has been missing from the Harrier all this while. Tata will use a Hyundai-sourced 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox apart from the 6-speed manual unit.
Due to the high cost of upgrade, a lot of manufacturers have decided not to offer diesel engines on their cars once the BSVI norms kick in. Tata will also not offer its 1.05-litre Revotorq diesel engine on the Tigor and Tiago. Tata’s first electric vehicle proper electric car for regular sale, the Altroz EV will be out next year and its performance in the market will decide a lot of things for Tata’s future.
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