Tata Motors diverts focus towards their roots, to launch six new SUVs in the next 4 years

They made a zesty new beginning with a compact sedan, the Bolt hatchback and will be expecting their Kites in the pipeline to soar high post launch. However, over the next four years, Tata Motors will also ensure they win back lost ground from their prime rival, Mahindra. The auto giant plans to launch as many as six new UVs in the coming years. Some of them will be replacing their aging product line-up, while some will be brand new products that will mark Tata’s foray into uncharted territory.

The first product will be the Hexa Crossover which made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2014 as a concept. A re-bodied Aria, the Hexa crossover will be powered by a 2.2-liter VARICOR 400 engine that delivers 154.21 hp of maximum power and 400 Nm of maximum twist along with an optional torque-on-demand 4WD system. Packed with features, the 6-seater could see launch early next year.

Later next year, Tata will also launch a compact SUV based on the Nexon concept displayed at the Auto Expo 2014. A 5-seater, the sub 4-meter product with RR Evoque inspired looks will take on the Ford Ecosport, Maruti’s upcoming compact SUV, Mahindra S101 and the Hyundai Ix25. The Tata Sumo will shed some of its flab and will be launched as the Raptor in late 2016. A rather rugged vehicle that will target B-town and rural markets, the Tata Raptor will try and hunt the Bolero down from its dominating position as the largest selling UV in India.

Two new global products which are being developed with inputs from JLR are expected to hit the market by the second half of 2017. Codenamed as Q501 and Q502, the former is a 5-seater while the latter has space for seven. Both vehicles could be powered by a new 2.0-liter Multijet motor that Tata is jointly developing along with Fiat Chrysler. Two other products – a 7-seater SUV on the X1 platform and a 9-seater based on the X6 platform are also under consideration.

Source: ET