Update: Team-BHP reader Ron has shared spy shots of the Tata Aquila (Tata 45X) captured in Bangalore.
September 27 -
Tata Motors commenced the road testing of the production-spec Tata 45X this year. Following its sighting in Chennai on 15 September 2018, the new model has been spied by a reader of Autocar India.
The Tata 45X concept made its debut at the Auto Expo 2018. It was developed by Tata Motors European Technical Centre PLC (TMETC) in Coventry, UK. It measures 4,253 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,451 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,630 mm. On the other hand, the production-spec model won't be longer than 4,000 mm. The unusually large dimensions of the concept were to showcase the upper limit of the company's Advanced Modular Platform, also known as Alfa.
Going by the images of the prototypes, most of the original design cues, as showcased by the concept model, have been retained on the production-spec model. The premium hatchback features a steeply raked roofline that tapers dramatically towards the rear, with 3D effect taillamps. It rides on large-diameter five-spoke alloy wheels, and the outside rearview mirrors look bigger than the ones on the Tiago and the Nexon. The tailgate features a similar kink to the one on the concept. The rear door handles of the premium hatchback will be hidden away in the C-pillar for a cleaner profile.
The Tata 45X will be sold in a variety of interior colour options and will be built of high-quality materials to “enhance the perception of tactile quality.” Furthermore, the Maruti Baleno-adversary should offer many personalisation options.
Powering the Tata 45X could be a new 1.2-litre petrol engine and the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engines from Nexon. That said, with a slump in demand for diesel cars and the high cost of the exhaust treatment technologies required for BSVI-compliance, the diesel variant demand could slide further. Tata Motors could offer a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for optimising the performance & fuel efficiency of the petrol engine while meeting CAFE norms in 2022.
The Tata Aquilla will launch during the festive period of 2019. Prices are expected to start at INR 5.5 lakhs, and the Bolt's successor will lock horns with the Maruti Baleno, Hyundai Elite i20, and Kia's upcoming premium hatchback.
[Image Source 1: autocarindia.com]
[Image Source 2: team-bhp.com]
