What are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What makes them high-performance car models? Today, we take a look at the Tata Harrier 2023 and MG Hector, and find out why they appeal to performance enthusiasts.
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Tata Harrier 2023 vs MG Hector – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
What a Performance Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
A performance enthusiast often looks for fast cars that provide thrilling acceleration, exceptional high-speed stability, minimal body roll, and an agile driving experience. Factors like responsive power delivery, low turbo lag, and advanced transmission systems play a pivotal role in the selection.
Additionally, high-quality audio systems, interactive touchscreen displays, and a range of advanced safety and tech features elevate the overall driving experience for this persona.
Why Tata Harrier 2023 and MG Hector are popular
Both the Tata Harrier 2023 and MG Hector have garnered attention from performance enthusiasts for distinct reasons.
The Tata Harrier, with its robust architecture derived from the Land Rover platform, promises stability, impressive power figures, and an overall thrilling drive experience.
MG Hector, on the other hand, offers a harmonious blend of performance and cutting-edge tech features. Its turbocharged petrol engine provides a linear power delivery, and the inclusion of high-end tech, such as Infinity audio system and a large touchscreen, makes it stand out.
Their performance prowess and tech-forward approach are often highlighted, making them favored choices among performance enthusiasts.
Tata Harrier 2023 and MG Hector variants shortlist in Rs 15-17 lakh range
For MG Hector, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 26 October 2023 |
| 1.5 Turbo Shine | ₹1,599,000 |
| 1.5 Turbo Smart | ₹1,680,000 |
For Tata Harrier, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 26 October 2023 |
| Smart | ₹1,549,000 |
| Smart (O) | ₹1,599,000 |
| Pure | ₹1,699,000 |
MG Hector 1.5 Turbo Shine
This variant, priced at ₹1,599,000, offers an agile driving experience, minimal turbo lag, and a quick engine response. Coupled with Infinity audio and other advanced features, it represents excellent value for performance enthusiasts. If you’re buying a family car, you can read our comparison of the Hector with Toyota Innova Hycross.
MG Hector 1.5 Turbo Smart
With a price tag of ₹1,680,000, it builds upon the Shine variant by adding alloy wheels and other enhancements, further enhancing its attractiveness for performance enthusiasts. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Hector with Mahindra XUV700.
Tata Harrier Smart
Priced at ₹1,549,000, it comes with a more powerful diesel engine, impressive torque, and LED lighting, making it a compelling choice.
Tata Harrier Pure
Despite being the highest priced at ₹1,699,000, its offerings parallel the Smart variant, but it lacks some details necessary for a complete evaluation.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Tata Harrier 2023 and MG Hector for Performance Enthusiasts
Among the listed variants, the Tata Harrier Smart distinctly stands out as the top choice for a performance enthusiast. With a 1956cc engine churning out 167.62 BHP and a peak torque of 350 Nm, it clearly packs a punch.
The diesel engine combined with the turbocharger ensures robust power delivery, making it apt for spirited driving. Its high-speed stability, minimal body roll, and agile nature make it enjoyable on both highways and twisty roads.
Its LED headlights, 6 airbags, and 205mm ground clearance make it both a practical and performance-oriented choice.
The Top 3 Choices
- Tata Harrier Smart
- Tata Harrier Pure
- MG Hector 1.5 Turbo Smart
| Attribute | Tata Harrier Smart | Tata Harrier Pure | MG Hector 1.5 Turbo Smart |
| High-Speed Stability | Yes | N/A | Yes |
| Agility | Yes | N/A | Yes |
| Turbocharging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 205 | 205 | 192 |
| Engine – power (BHP) | 167.62 | 167.67 | 141 |
| Engine – Torque (Nm) | 350 | 350 | 250 |
| Transmission – # of gears | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Engine – displacement (cc) | 1956 | 1956 | 1451 |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Tata Harrier’s variants, especially the Smart variant, shine with their powerful diesel engine and torque figures. They promise an exhilarating driving experience suitable for any performance enthusiast.
- Meanwhile, the MG Hector 1.5 Turbo Smart comes in as a close third, offering a peppy petrol engine in an agile package. However, the torque and power figures of the Harrier variants clearly give them an edge for someone seeking performance.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered
