Update: YouTube channel AutoTrend India has uploaded a spy video of a base Tata 45X, embedded below in the story.
31 December 2018 -
IAB reader Rohan Gaikwad has spotted a Tata 45X (Tata Aquilla) prototype on test in Pune. The black door handles and steel wheels with no caps are hints that it is in the most basic equipment line.
The Tata 45X is the second model to incorporate the brand’s IMPACT 2.0 design theme. It has a smaller footprint compared to the concept that debuted at Auto Expo 2018, with the length not crossing the 4,000 mm mark to avoid higher taxation. The butch-looking hatchback will replace the Bolt in Tata Motors’ line-up, and realistically compete with the likes of the Hyundai i20, Maruti Baleno and Honda Jazz.
The Tata 45X is the homegrown automaker's first car to ride on the Advanced Modular Platform, which will spawn several more sub-4 metre cars and even a Maruti Ciaz rivaling sedan in the future. Not just that, it will debut a brand-new 1.2-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine with an optional mild-hybrid system as well. There’s also speak of a dual-clutch automatic transmission. Even with BSVI emission norms said to bump costs of small diesel engines to a very high level, reports suggest that a 1.5-litre diesel engine option is planned.
Also Read: Tata Motors to expand PV line-up to 12-14 models - Report
Noteworthy features of the Tata 45X will include sleek headlamps and tail lamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, pillar-mounted rear door handles, dash-top floating touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, engine start-stop button and automatic climate control. The new hatchback is expected to offer unprecedented levels of safety.
The Tata 45X is slated to go on sale in the second quarter of FY2020 (July-September 2019).
