IAB reader Vikram Viswanathan, has spotted a Tata H5X in Ooty during high-altitude road
tests. The production version of the concept that made its debut at the Auto
Expo in February will reportedly be unveiled in November 2018.
The test mule is not production-ready as evident
from the makeshift headlights, tail lights and bumpers. However, the slopey
profile of the upcoming Tata SUV is quite clear in these spy shots. Compared to
the concept, the production version's roofline is more in favour of rear
passenger headroom.
Images partially revealing the
interior of the Tata H5X were uploaded to the web. The centre console gets an
upright Nexon-like touchscreen display. The cabin featured seating for five
occupants, although rumours suggest there will be a 7-seat version in a second
installment.
The Land Rover Discovery Sport's platform will form
the basis of the Tata H5X. However, it has been carried over with material and
dimensional alterations. Tata engineers have replaced aluminium components with
high strength steel to keep costs in check. The diesel engine to power the car
comes courtesy Jeep in the form of the 2.0 L Multijet II mill.
A new report claims that Tata will also plonk a
petrol engine under the hood of the H5X. The use of a petrol engine signals
intent for a hybrid variant in the future. That said, on the release date, the
Tata H5X could be a diesel-only offering.
Speaking of the launch, the SUV is likely to go on
sale in early 2019 following a media reveal towards the end of 2018. Tata
Motors will follow it up with the launch of a premium hatchback to rival the
Maruti Baleno and Hyundai i20 based on the Tata 45X concept from the Auto Expo.
The list of upcoming Tata cars in 2018-19 include the Tata Tiago JTP and the
Tata Tigor JTP.
