Tata Motors will launch the much-awaited Nexon concept based compact SUV in the country in early 2016. Unveiled at the 2014 Delhi Motor Show as a pre-production concept, the compact SUV is reportedly share its styling cues with the Range Rover Evoque. As a reminder, Land Rover was acquired by Tata Motors in 2008.
According to AutoCarIndia, the compact SUV will look like a mini Evoque. Codenamed X104, the Nexon based SUV will sport a sharply tapering roofline which will add to its styling; however, such roofline will affect its rear seat space. To add some sporty character, the Nexon flared wheel arches have been fitted to large 17-inch alloy wheels.
Based on the thoroughly modified X1 platform that also underpins the Tata Zest and the Bolt hatchback, the Nexon compact SUV would share its interior components with its smaller siblings. Instead of the 1.3-litre MJD diesel engine, the compact SUV will get an all-new 1.5-litre engine that is expected to develop around 110bhp of top power. Power will be transmitted to either front wheels or all-wheels via a new six-speed manual transmission. The petrol motor will be a new all-aluminium, three-cylinder engine that is good for 75bhp.
Interestingly, the homegrown automaker is also working on a larger SUV to compete against the likes of Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour. Adding to it, the maker is also working on a new project, codenamed Kite, under which a sub-compact hatchback and an entry-level sub-compact sedan will be launched in the market.
