Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra, the two leading indigenous automakers, have ambitious plans to strengthen their market presence with a new and extensive product portfolio. Both companies are also gearing up for significant ventures in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. In the coming months, Tata is set to introduce at least four new models, including the Altroz facelift, Altroz Racer, all-new Curvv EV, and Harrier EV. Meanwhile, Mahindra will kick off with the XUV300 facelift in February 2024, followed by the XUV300 EV and the 5-door Thar. Let’s delve into the key details of these upcoming models.
Tata Altroz Facelift/Altroz Racer
In a bid to compete with the Maruti Baleno and Hyundai i20, Tata plans to introduce the Altroz facelift with significant cosmetic and feature upgrades. The hatchback is expected to feature a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless phone charging, a 7-inch digital instrument console, ventilated front seats, and six airbags. No changes are anticipated under the hood. The 2024 Tata Altroz facelift will continue to offer the 88bhp, 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol, and 110bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engines, with both manual and DCT gearboxes available. The Tata Altroz Racer Edition, first showcased at the previous year’s Auto Expo, is expected to come with the 120bhp, 1.2L turbo petrol engine, positioning it as the most powerful vehicle in its segment. The Altroz Racer will compete against the Hyundai i20 N Line.
Tata Curvv EV
Scheduled to go on sale in the second or third quarter of this calendar year, the Tata Curvv concept-based coupe SUV will likely be named ‘Tata Frest.’ Initially launching with electric powertrains, the specifications are yet to be revealed. Tata has confirmed that its Acti-ev platform-based SUVs will be high-range models. The Curvv EV is expected to offer a range of around 500km on a single charge. The design elements are likely to be carried forward from the concept, featuring a free-standing dual digital screen for the instrument console and infotainment. The Tata Curvv EV will be equipped with advanced features such as a 360-degree camera, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control with dual toggles, auto park assist, and more.
Tata Harrier EV
Following the Curvv EV, the electric iteration of the Tata Harrier SUV is expected to hit the roads in the second half of 2024. Recent design patents leaked on the web provide a fair idea of its production-ready design, sharing some elements with the Curvv coupe SUV. The electric version will have differently designed alloy wheels and an ‘.ev’ moniker on the lower portion of the front door. The electric SUV will be underpinned by the Acti.ev platform, offering a battery pack of around 60kWh and a range over 500km.
Mahindra XUV300 Facelift/XUV300 EV
The updated Mahindra XUV300 subcompact SUV is set to launch in February, followed by the XUV300 EV in June 2024. The facelift will feature a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Mahindra’s latest AdrenoX user interface, along with various other features. The powertrain options will include the same 1.2L turbo MPI, 1.2L turbo GDI, and 1.5L turbo diesel engines. The Mahindra XUV300 EV, a new electric offering, will be based on its facelifted version and is expected to come with a 35kWh battery pack.
5-Door Mahindra Thar
The 5-door Mahindra Thar, a lifestyle off-road SUV, is anticipated to be released in August 2024. Likely named Mahindra Thar Armanda, it will differ slightly in design from its 3-door version. The SUV will feature a six-slat front grille, an all-LED lighting system, newly designed 19-inch alloys, and a metal roof with a soft fabric roof liner. The Mahindra Thar Armanda will have a 300mm longer wheelbase than its 3-door counterpart. Powering the SUV will be the same 2.0L turbo petrol and 2.2L turbo diesel engines, with 6-speed MT and 6-speed AT gearbox options. It may be offered with both 4X2 and 4X4 drivetrain options, possibly borrowing the penta-link suspension setup from the Scorpio N.
