One does not realize the speeds at which the SUV is moving on the highways.
BHPian Goutsdk recently shared this with other enthusiasts.
In this post, I am updating you about my ownership experience. The vehicle is completing 1 year and has done around 12k km on the ODO.
During this period I went for a few short trips from Mumbai to Surat and Mumbai to Nasik.
Highway manners
The car cruises along comfortably and one does not realize the speed reached. On one such solo trip, the MID showed an average of over 20 on the highway (had to maintain a speed of 70-90 km/hr). It may have actually been around 18 on tank to tank method.
My family generally likes cruising at 80 -100 km/hr to enjoy the view. One does not realize the speed at which the vehicle is moving. Earlier they used to ask me to slow down in my previous vehicle. But in this, they say “Why are you driving so slowly” and I show the ODO.
Modes
There are 3 modes for power and 3 modes for traction. Effectively, there are 5 modes:
- City- City: the default mode for power and traction. I use this 99%. It provides sufficient power for moving along and accelerating.
- Eco-City: the power response is lower. I sometimes forget I have put the Eco mode on until I need sudden acceleration. I have not been able to make out if there is an improvement in the fuel economy.
- Sports- City: The power is superb. A slight tap and you move fast. Use it for tight overtakes and steep ghats. Also, use it once in a while to ensure the DPF is clean.
- City- Rough: The power delivery is unaffected. But road traction changes. On the rough road, I get more confidence in this mode, but as soon as I reach a good surface, I feel the traction holding me from accelerating.
- City- Wet: I used this on waterlogged roads. In one such instance, a Wagon R in front of me shook but this car was stable. Also, think it reduces the chances of hydroplaning.
Infotainment System
My MY22 model gets wireless AA (no wireless charging though). During the 3rd service at 15K, the version was upgraded to 18.50. Since then I have driven over 6K. The system has not shut down as it used to earlier but I have noticed that the infotainment system shows an error (connection failure) at particular locations and AA stops there.
Air Purification
The vehicle also gets an Air purifier, which is basically a better (Hepa) filter to reduce pm 2.5. During the 3rd service, the SA advised changing the air filter. Since I had been taking the vehicle to a dusty environment, I agreed. After the change, there were a few instances where the reading showed ‘0’. I had not seen such low levels even when I bought the car.
Fuel Efficiency
I get 11-12 kmpl in my day-to-day drives. On the highway, it improves to 15-18 kmpl depending on various factors such as ghats, idling etc.
Blind Spots
The height can also be a disadvantage in tight traffic conditions. One may miss the vehicles with a low height. I have now found a way by adjusting the ORVM.
Knee-Hitting Issues
They are reported by many. My hacks include adjusting the seat height, putting my foot over the footrest (space is available in the automatics) allowing my left leg to stretch.
Accessory Added
- I felt on a few occasions that some bikers tried to take advantage of me. In one case a biker was taking a left turn from my left, where I was also taking a left turn (indicator on) and fell due to road conditions. He then accused me of hitting him. Hence I felt the need for a dashcam. I have installed a Qubo 4k dashcam.
- For TPMS, I added JK Treel on all 5 tyres. I was not sure of its utility, but after installing it, I found that 1 particular tyre was losing air quicker than others. This has helped me identify a potential puncture.
Third Service
I booked my third service over a call and asked for an appointment at 7 so that I can hand over the vehicle and reach the office in time. When I reached the service centre (Fortune Motors), there was no SA. But I left my vehicle and key with the security. Around 9:10 am, I got a call from the SA. Discussed what all needs to be done. Had checked the same on the TMSC app. We discussed the additions that he was asking for. I felt the same is justified. The bill was around 15k.
Keyword: Tata Harrier: 12,000 km ownership experience including fuel efficiency