Quick Take – What You Need to Know:
- A brand-new compact SUV from Tata is coming — codename: Scarlet
- It’ll rock a boxy, Sierra-like design with real personality
- Will support both petrol and electric versions — AWD could be on the EV
- Price expected to overlap with the Nexon, but with its own fanbase
Intro: Meet Scarlet, the SUV That Refuses to Blend In
Not all SUVs are built to disappear in the crowd — and Tata’s upcoming Scarlet seems to know that. Picture this: bold, upright styling, that unmistakable boxy charm, and the confidence of a Sierra-inspired silhouette. It’s not just another sub-4m SUV. Scarlet wants to make a statement — and it’s not shy about it.
Classic Vibes Meet Modern Edge
Scarlet might be new, but it takes a nostalgic route with its design. Inspired by the legendary Tata Sierra, the look is clean, bold, and upright — like it’s built for purpose. Think less of flowing curves and more of clean lines, slab sides, and that old-school stance — in the best possible way.
Petrol, Electric… or Both? Tata’s Got Options
Under the skin, Scarlet is expected to run on a monocoque platform — lightweight, flexible, and ready for the future. Tata hasn’t confirmed the engines yet, but it could borrow from the Nexon’s 1.2L turbo petrol, or even the Curvv’s direct-injection motor. There’s even talk of a new 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol.
But what really grabs attention? The all-electric version — possibly with dual motors and AWD. Now that’s the kind of surprise we like.
Not Off-Road Crazy, But Definitely Cool
Yes, some folks are comparing Scarlet to the Thar or Jimny — but here’s the thing: this isn’t trying to climb cliffs. Scarlet isn’t about off-road dominance — it’s about style, attitude, and lifestyle. Think more long drives, surfboards on the roof, weekend camping — less rock crawling.
Tata’s aiming for people who love the SUV look and feel, but don’t need it to tackle boulders every weekend.
Big EV Dreams? Tata’s Just Getting Started
Scarlet is just one piece of Tata’s puzzle. Along with it, two more compact EVs — Kuno and Terra — are in the works. Tata wants to offer two options in every segment — and that means more electric choices, whether you’re looking at entry-level or premium.
Snapshot: Tata Scarlet Compact SUV
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Codename | Scarlet |
| Segment | Compact SUV (Sub-4m) |
| Design Style | Boxy, upright, inspired by Tata Sierra |
| Platform | Monocoque (ICE & EV ready) |
| Likely Engines | 1.2L Turbo Petrol, DI Petrol, 1.5L NA Petrol, Electric |
| AWD Possibility | Expected on EV version only |
| Price Range (est.) | ₹8–15.5 lakh (May overlap with Nexon/Nexon EV) |
| Positioning | Lifestyle SUV, urban + adventurous appeal |
| Other EVs in Pipeline | Kuno & Terra (compact EVs for different segments) |
Conclusion: A New Kind of Compact SUV is on the Horizon
The Tata Scarlet isn’t here to compete — it’s here to carve its own niche. With bold Sierra-inspired styling, flexible powertrain choices, and EV readiness baked in, it’s the kind of SUV that blends throwback cool with forward-thinking engineering.
It’s not about being the toughest — it’s about being the most you. And for the compact SUV buyer who wants to stand out while staying grounded — Scarlet could be the one.