In September 2018, Tata Motors introduced the Tiago
NRG, a robust-looking version of its popular A2-segmenter. IAB’s digital illustrator Shoeb Kalania has now created a
rendering to visualise a similar model based on the recently unveiled Tata
Altroz.
Imagined on the lines of the Tata Tiago NRG, the
Altroz-based cross-hatch would feature prominent black plastic cladding around
the lower body and faux skid plates. Highlights are likely to include several
black bits that will replace the chrome trim, roof rails, and larger alloy
wheels. The additional ground clearance would give it a more imposing stance
and even help the vehicle tackle the rough roads better.
The Tata Altroz was unveiled at the 2019 Geneva
Motor Show this month. The company's latest B-segment hatchback is the
production version of the Tata 45X concept that debuted at the Auto Expo 2018.
The Tata Altroz is the company's second production model to be designed as per
its Impact Design 2.0 philosophy. The new model is underpinned by the in-house
developed Agile Light Flexible Advanced (ALFA) architecture.
Powering the Tata Altroz should be an all-new
1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that will be available with
mild-hybrid technology and even a dual-clutch automatic transmission, both of
which will be firsts for a production-spec Tata Motors model. A diesel engine
option is highly unlikely to be offered due to high costs of a BS-VI-compliant
oil-burner. That said, the Altroz will become the first of the next generation
EVs from the company.
The Tata Altroz will launch later this year,
expectedly in the June-July period. It will rival the likes of Maruti Baleno,
Hyundai Elite i20 and Honda Jazz, with its prices likely to start around INR
5.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
