Off the beaten track lies adventure. The off-roading enthusiast, for that reason, is looking only for the best off-road cars, or top SUVs for off-roading in India. Today, we look at the Tata Harrier 2023 and Isuzu V-Cross, and find out what makes them off-road vehicles in India.
In this article, we will share
- What an off-roading enthusiast looks for in a car
- Tata Harrier 2023 vs Isuzu V-Cross – an in-depth look at their variants, features, and off-roading capabilities
- How to pick the right car for you
So, can these cars handle water-wading, rough or muddy terrains, or traverse through sand? Are they capable of mild to serious off-roading? Let’s find out.
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What an Offroading Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as an off-roading enthusiast:
- Drive system – What drive system does the vehicle have (FWD, AWD, or 4X4)
- Ground clearance – the car should have high ground clearance to tackle uneven terrains
- Low range gearing – the car should have low range gearing to allow the vehicle to drive at lower speeds while still operating the usable power band/RPM of the entire engine
- Locking differential – the vehicle should have differential locking for better traction when driving on soft, muddy or uneven surfaces
- Engine power and torque – the engine should have adequate power and generate enough torque
- Safety – safety features are important, especially when traveling through challenging terrains
- Comfort and convenience – the vehicle should offer good comfort, as well as convenience features
An off-roading enthusiast seeks a vehicle that can confidently navigate through rough terrains. Essential features include high ground clearance, a robust 4WD system, and a powerful engine with ample torque for challenging inclines. Durable suspension, strong traction control, and differential locks are crucial for maintaining grip in slippery conditions.
Furthermore, approach and departure angles determine the car’s ability to tackle steep inclines without scraping the undercarriage, making them vital attributes for any off-roading vehicle.
Why Tata Harrier 2023 and Isuzu V-Cross are Popular
Tata Harrier 2023 and Isuzu V-Cross have garnered popularity among off-road aficionados due to their formidable combination of power, performance, and durability.
The Harrier, with its OMEGARC platform inspired by Land Rover’s D8 architecture, offers a solid foundation for stability and handling in rough terrains. Meanwhile, the Isuzu V-Cross boasts a sturdy chassis and a 4WD system that promises reliable off-road prowess.
Both vehicles provide high torque output and ground clearance, critical for off-road challenges. The inclusion of features like hill hold assist and traction control further boosts their appeal.
Additionally, their muscular aesthetics and the commanding driving position offer both the practicality for off-road conditions and the style that enthusiasts appreciate.
Tata Harrier 2023 and Isuzu V-Cross Variants Shortlist in Rs 25-27 Lakh Range
For Tata Harrier 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 8 November 2023 |
| Fearless Plus Dark | ₹2,504,000 |
| Fearless Plus AT | ₹2,589,000 |
| Fearless Plus Dark AT | ₹2,644,000 |
For Isuzu V-Cross, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 8 November 2023 |
| 4×4 Z Prestige AT | ₹2,700,000 |
Tata Harrier Fearless Plus Dark
The Tata Harrier Fearless Plus Dark stands out for its Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) system and features like hill hold assist and electronic stability control (ESC), offering a basic off-roading package suitable for light trails and uneven roads. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Harrier 2023 with MG Hector.
Tata Harrier Fearless Plus AT
For those preferring an automatic transmission, the Tata Harrier Fearless Plus AT delivers similar attributes as the Fearless Plus Dark, but with the convenience of a Torque Converter Automatic, enhancing ease of use in stop-go traffic or when navigating tricky terrains. If you enjoy long-distance road trips, you can read our comparison of the Harrier 2023 with Mahindra Scorpio-N.
Tata Harrier Fearless Plus Dark AT
The Tata Harrier Fearless Plus Dark AT mirrors the Plus AT’s features, with additional aesthetic elements for those who desire style alongside capability. However, for off-road purists, the FWD system may not be as appealing as a 4WD.
Isuzu V-Cross 4×4 Z Prestige AT
The Isuzu V-Cross 4×4 Z Prestige AT is equipped with a Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) system, higher ground clearance, and a differential lock. This makes it a superior choice for challenging off-road conditions, providing better control and power distribution essential for serious off-road enthusiasts. We have also compared the V-Cross with Toyota Hilux for off-roading enthusiasts.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Tata Harrier 2023 and Isuzu V-Cross for Offroading Enthusiasts
The Isuzu V-Cross 4×4 Z Prestige AT is the clear winner for off-roading enthusiasts. With its 4WD capability, higher ground clearance at 225mm, and a differential lock, it stands leagues ahead of the FWD Harrier variants in off-road situations.
The Isuzu’s approach and departure angles are designed to handle extreme off-road conditions, preventing the vehicle from getting hung up on steep obstacles. The variant’s torque output of 360 Nm is more suited for off-road terrains, providing that extra grunt needed to power through tough spots.
Additionally, the linear power delivery and the torque converter automatic transmission offer smoother gear shifts, essential for maintaining momentum on challenging surfaces. Lastly, the V-Cross’s build quality and robust chassis can withstand the rigors of off-roading better than the urban-focused Harrier.
The Top 3 Choices
- Isuzu V-Cross 4×4 Z Prestige AT
- Tata Harrier Fearless Plus Dark AT
- Tata Harrier Fearless Plus AT
| Feature | Isuzu V-Cross 4×4 Z Prestige AT | Tata Harrier Fearless Plus Dark AT | Tata Harrier Fearless Plus AT |
| Drive System | 4WD | FWD | FWD |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 225 | 205 | 205 |
| Engine Torque (Nm) | 360 | 350 | 350 |
| Approach/Departure Angles | Superior | Moderate | Moderate |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
While the Tata Harrier offers a comfortable and stylish ride, its FWD system and lower ground clearance limit its off-road capabilities. In contrast, the Isuzu V-Cross 4×4 Z Prestige AT provides the essential features for off-roading, including a robust 4WD system, high ground clearance, and greater engine torque, making it the top pick for off-road enthusiasts.
Off-roading requires a vehicle that is not only powerful but also resilient. The Harrier offers an entry into off-road adventures with style and comfort, but the Isuzu V-Cross’s true 4WD system and off-road oriented design cater to those who prioritize performance in the rugged outdoors.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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