Tata H5X Continues Testing: Looks Production Ready!

Update: Tata H5X Might Be Called Tata Harrier

More Details On: Tata Harrier

Early morning shoots usually have us groggy, and mostly consuming alarming amounts of tea. Today, though, was slightly different. We were greeted by a couple of mules of the Tata H5X, on the road leading to Lavasa. The two test mules were tailed by a red Discovery Sport, which we’re assuming isn’t one to begin with. Tata has been testing the H5X with the Land Rover’s bodyshell for over a year now, and we’re guessing the red one is just another mule going through the paces.

Coming back to the H5X, it’s amazing to see that the design hasn’t been watered down from the concept version. We raised our eyebrows high when Pratap Bose, head of design at Tata told us 80 per cent of the concept will make it to production. Looking at the test mules, our doubts have been laid to rest. The best bits from the concept, including the slim headlamps and the clamshell bonnet have been retained as is. We also spot the bulbous bumper, that features a prominent recess for a circular fog lamp, and a big faux skid plate.

A noticeable departure from the concept, is the roofline. While the H5X’ roofline dived into the boot like there’s no tomorrow, the production-spec SUV has a straighter roofline. The C-pillar too, is noticeably thicker compared to the concept. That said, we can’t rule out the fact that it might just be the camo playing tricks on us. Coming to the rear, the big tail lamps immediately grab attention. There’s a very Jaguar F-Pace-ish rake to the rear windscreen that looks great.

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We couldn’t get a sneak peek into the interiors, but we know it will be equipped with all you’d want. Expect goodies such as a touchscreen infotainment system, a Harman-tuned audio setup, automatic air-conditioning, cruise control et al to make their way into the feature list of the top-spec variant. On the engine front, Tata is expected to employ the 2.0-litre Multijet diesel, we’ve seen on the Jeep Compass. The motor makes 173PS of power and 350Nm of torque under the hood of the Jeep, so expect similar figures here. A 6-speed manual is expected to be offered at launch, and there are rumours of a dual-clutch automatic being developed as well. We’re expecting concrete details as we inch closer to the launch. 

Speaking of which, expect Tata to make a big splash early next year with the H5X. And if anyone at Tata is reading this, you get bonus points if you name it Sierra!