Confirmed: Tata 45X-Based Hatchback To Launch In 2019; Will Rival Baleno, Polo, Elite i20
We expect Tata to launch a sedan based on the premium hatchback as well
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Tata Motors showcased the 45X premium hatchback concept at the 2018 Auto Expo. The carmaker has now confirmed that the production-spec version of the hatchback will be launched in the second half of 2019. The new Tata hatchback will follow the launch of the H5X-based SUV, which will take on the Hyundai Creta and the Jeep Compass when it goes on sale in the first quarter of 2019. Tata has already started testing the SUV and the hatchback.
Tata’s passenger vehicle business unit president, Mayank Pareek, reportedly said, “In the first quarter of next year (2019), we will introduce the H5X, a new SUV based on the Omega platform. In the second half of the year, we will launch the premium hatch, the 45X, which is based on the Alpha platform.”
Also Read: In Pictures: Tata H5X SUV Concept
The 45X-based hatchback will be Tata’s first product to be based on its brand new ALFA (Agile Light Flexible Advanced) architecture. It will be the second offering to sport the company’s evolved Impact 2.0 design language. It will also mark Tata’s entry into the premium hatchback segment, which is currently dominated by likes of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and the refreshed Hyundai Elite i20.
Related: Tata EVision Makes Global Debut At Geneva Motor Show 2018; Based On H5X Concept SUV
The 45X concept looks stunning from most angles. While the front and side profile of the hatchback look simple and have an air of minimalism to them, the rear is aggressive thanks to that highly raked windscreen and the split rear spoiler. We expect the production model to borrow a lot of the styling cues seen on the concept, just like the Nexon.
Under the bonnet, the Baleno-rival is likely to be powered by the same set of engines found on the Tata Nexon. However, they might be available in a different state of tune. And since it will be launched in late-2019, we also expect the engines to conform to BSVI emission standards. It will also adhere to the latest safety standards, which means features like dual front airbags, ABS and Isofix child seat mounts will be standard.
As far as the pricing is concerned, we expect Tata’s new hatchback to undercut its rivals by a slight margin as the carmaker has been aggressive with the pricing of its cars in the past. For perspective, the Maruti Baleno is priced between Rs 5.35 lakh and Rs 8.49 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
Also Read: Tata To Launch More Models Based On 45X; Honda City Rival A Possibility
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