Tata’s compact SUV still hadn’t appeared in the spy-images, but it seems the rumour mill had started churning quite before anything else could appear in its way. Here, a well-known source from the industry was heard saying, the compact (SUV) from Tata would be similar to the Range Rover Evoque. How true that could be, will be framed only after seeing it in actual. For now, there seems this speculation could be working in its favour.
Tata Motors hadn’t spoken a word yet, but the source continues to define further, confirming it to be a package like Mini Evoque. There could be raked roofline eating some of the space at rear. And the platform pinned underneath would be the same as of Tata Zest and Bolt. Codenamed as X104, the mini SUV of Tata Motors may make way for bigger wheel arches to accommodate 17-inch wheels. But there don’t seem any spark of possessing a spare wheel over the tailgate.
The power will break the heck out of bonnet. A newly developed 1.5-litre diesel engine would take on the league with 110bhp when mated to a six-speed manual, where the in-house manufactured – a 1.2-litre aluminum made petrol motor – worth of 75bhp shall also make way to the list. The petrol motor would be consisted of three-cylinder and maybe more refined and quieter than before.
Hence, all the aforesaid gimmicks look quite feasible as a vehicle to take on the market breaking the ice with hatchbacks. But in India, the ‘pricing’ works, and soon after the successful launch of Zest and Bolt, it seems the automaker had already learnt the tactic, what has to be followed and certainly what has to be dropped.
Ford EcoSport will be its major challenge in the segment, whereas others like Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano must better watch out for.
Source: Autocar India