Tata HBX Concept Based Mini-SUV Launch Confirmed For Financial Year 2020-21

Tata Motors has confirmed that a final, production-spec mini SUV based on the Tata HBX concept will launch in India during the latter half of the financial year 2020-21. The HBX concept was unveiled at the recent Auto Expo.

A production model was expected to be launched later this year, but the launch has been postponed because of the shutdown imposed in order to contain the Covid-19 pandemic. In fact, the company is currently operating with a lesser number of personnel.

Speculation is that Tata could offer their 1.2-litre, direct-injection, turbo-petrol engine with top-of-the-line HBX models. Entry level models will feature the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines that are featured on the company’s Tiago, Tigor, and Altroz models.

This engine is a BS6 compliant, three-cylinder, four valve one that produces 84 brake horse power and 113Nm of torque. The engine comes mated to a five-speed manual & AMT with the Tiago and the Tigor, and mated only to a five-speed manual with the Altroz.

The Tata HBX will become the second vehicle, after the Altroz, to feature the company’s ALFA architecture. The mini-SUV has tall and upright stance, and a muscular looking front. The interiors of the vehicle are expected to be almost similar to the HBX concept that was showcased.

The Tata HBX is expected to be priced roughly between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 8 lakh, ex-showroom. The HBXdoes not have any direct competition at the moment. Vehicles that are closest are the Maruti Suzuki Ignis, and the Mahindra KUV100.