Tata HBX Spotted Testing; Mahindra KUV100 Rival Expected To Launch In Mid-2021

Tata’s micro-SUV is expected to be powered by the Altroz’ 86PS 1.2-litre petrol engine

• The HBX is underpinned by Tata’s ALFA Arc platform.

• It’s launch has been postponed to FY2021.

• Spy shots reveal lots of similarities to the HBX concept.

• The HBX will be positioned below the Nexon as a micro-SUV.

The Tata HBX is one of the most anticipated SUVs since it was showcased at Auto Expo 2020. Tata recently announced that the HBX’s launch has been postponed from December 2020 to FY2021. However, the micro-SUV has been spotted testing in what seems to be a higher variant.

Despite the heavy camouflage, the HBX seems to retain plenty of bits from the concept showcased at the Expo. Based on the concept, the HBX will get an aggressive front fascia, muscular fenders, and an upright stance. It is expected to get split headlamps with DRLs. At the rear, the test mule features LED tail lamps, a rear wiper and the tailgate also has a circular slot, probably for housing the rear parking camera. The spied variant of the HBX stands on what looks like 15-inch alloy wheels housed in flared wheel arches.

Based on the same ALFA Arc platform as the Altroz, the HBX could offer more cabin space than Tata’s premium hatchback. It will get most of Tata’s new features including a Harman sound system, a 7.0-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a semi-digital instrument cluster.

It is expected to be powered by the Altroz’s 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine which in its current state of tune, produces 86PS. The engine will also feature direct injection (GDI), a first for Tata. Expected gearbox options include a 5-speed manual and an AMT.

The HBX will sit under the Nexon in Tata’s current lineup and is expected to be priced from Rs 5 lakh onwards. The micro-SUV will compete with the likes of the Mahindra KUV100 and Maruti Suzuki Ignis.