We’ve spotted the Tata HBX testing in its camouflaged form and it sure looks promising. The Tata HBX is a micro SUV based on the ALFA architecture platform which will be slotted below the Nexon in the line-up. The HBX is the second product to be based on the ALFA platform after the Altroz which means that its safety rating could be promising.
More Details
The HBX has been showcased in the concept form multiple times and the test mule spotted here seems to be true to the concept. It features an upright stance with Tata’s signature styling cues. This means the inclusion of the humanity grille and headlamps placed on the lower half of the bumper like the Safari and the Harrier. We expect a few details from the concept version to be toned down for the production version such as the chunky wheels.
Powertrain
The HBX will share its powertrains with the Altroz. It will most likely feature petrol engines only like the naturally aspirated 1.2-litre, 3 cylinder engine which produces 86Hp and 114Nm of torque. Transmission duties will be taken care of by a 5-speed manual and an AMT. The HBX could also feature a turbocharged version of the same engine which produces 110Hp and 140Nm of torque via a 5-speed manual transmission in the Altroz.
Interiors
The interiors of the HBX will borrow bits from the Altroz like the semi-digital instrument cluster, 7-inch touch screen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, cruise control, dual airbags, steering mounted audio controls and climate control to name a few. Again, expect a few details like the compass to be done away with in the production form. Tata could aim for a 5-star crash rating just like its Altroz to set it apart from the competition.
The HBX could be named the Hornbill or the Timero, we expect Tata to reveal the name of the micro SUV in the coming months. The HBX will be placed below the Nexon so expect it to be priced competitively. The HBX will take on the likes of multiple SUVs and hatchbacks in the price range like the Maruti Ignis, Mahindra KUV100 and the upcoming micro SUV from Hyundai.