Tata Nexon-based compact SUV codenamed "Osprey", launch next year - Report

13/11/2015 - 12:35 | ,  ,   | Aravind Jayachandran

Nexon concept was unveiled at the 2014 Auto Expo.

Tata is expected to enter the highly competitive compact SUV segment in the next fiscal, reportedly, with the launch of the production-spec Tata Nexon. According to Zigwheels, it has been internally codenamed as "Osprey" and is currently in its initial stages of development.

Tata Nexon at the 2014 Indonesia International Motor Show front quarters
The Osprey's styling will be heavily influenced by the Tata Nexon.

The report states that the compact SUV will be based on the Tata Bolt/Zest's X1 platform, and its styling will be heavily influenced by the Tata Nexon. Older reports have even gone to the length of suggesting that the new SUV will borrow cues from the Land Rover Evoque.

As for engine options, it is likely to offer the 1.2-litre petrol turbocharged Revotron engine and a 1.3-litre Multijet engine from Fiat. Along with a 5-speed manual, the latter could also be offered with an AMT gearbox similar to the unit featured in Tata Zest.

Tata Nexon at the 2014 Indonesia International Motor Show interior
Although it's unlikely to adopt coach doors as this concept does, the Tata Osprey could draw cues from the Zest/Bolt, with respect to interior design.

The next product for launch in Tata's agenda is the replacement of the Tata Indica, which has been codenamed as Kite. Teasers of the model have revealed key exterior design elements, and is expected to launch in the market before the end of this fiscal year.

Inline with other codenames (Falcon, Kite), 'Osprey' is the name of a bird which is often referred to as a fish eagle.

[Source: Zigwheels]

You might also like