Tata Motors is readying an all-new micro SUV, which was first previewed as the HBX concept at the 2020 Auto Expo. Internally called the Hornbill, the new micro SUV is rumoured to be called the Tata Timero. The small SUV is scheduled to be launched before Diwali 2021, most probably in the end of second quarter 2021.
The Tata HBX based model will rival the Maruti Suzuki Ignis and the Mahindra KUV100 NXT. In fact, Hyundai is also developing a micro SUV, codenamed Hyundai AX, for the growing markets including India.
It is based on the brand’s new ALFA modular platform, which also underpins the Altroz hatchback. The SUV features the brand’s new IMPACT 2.0 design language, which we have already seen on the Altroz, Safari and the Harrier. The company has also announced that the production version of the HBX will retain close to 90% of its styling elements from the concept. The entry-level car will have upright stance with a flat bottom, prominent grille with sharper headlamps, striking belt line, a stand-up ‘A’ pillar and plastic cladding on the doors.
Like the Harrier and the Safari, the Tata HBX production model will have split headlamp set-up with LED DRls on top and main headlamp placed lower on the bumper. The SUV will have electrically adjustable ORVMs with integrated blinkers, alloy wheels, roof rails, roof-integrated spoiler and a raked rear windscreen. The production version of the mini SUV is expected to feature 15-inch alloys.
The concept model was 3,840mm in length, 1822mm in width and 1635mm in height with a wheelbase of 2450mm. It is expected that the production version HBX will measure similar to the concept. The entry-level SUV will receive the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine that also powers the Tiago and the Altroz. This engine produces 86bhp and 113Nm of torque. It could also receive the 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with power close to 100bhp. Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.
