Tata Altroz is based on ALFA platform and comes as the second vehicle to adorn Impact Design 2.0 styling philosophy
Tata Motors’ next big launch in India will obviously be the Altroz. Having been teased a number of times already, the hatchback’s official website is up and running ahead of the impending market debut. While the speculations surrounding its powertrain lineup are yet to be confirmed, we do know what it will have on the exterior front.
The homegrown manufacturer hosted the global premiere of the Altroz back in March at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show alongside the Altroz EV and seven-seater Harrier dubbed the Buzzard. Tata has been praised for transforming the conceptual versions into production models keeping practicality as well as the desire to bear the influences of their design studies in mind.
The Nexon and Harrier are prime examples. The flagship SUV, in particular, is based on the beautifully crafted H5X concept and it retained most of the design traits with conviction. With Altroz being the second Impact Design 2.0 philosophy based vehicle in the lineup following Harrier, the expectations only soared higher.
The fact that it borrows design cues from the 45X concept further catapulted the anticipation of what it could bring to the table. However, what came into reality was a different story. The Altroz looks more of an evolved Bolt than being based on a new design philosophy and it would make you think that the budget Tiago is a far better looker in all honesty.
The Altroz will go up against some of the best-looking hatchbacks around such as Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai Elite i20, Honda Jazz and Volkswagen Polo. Will it stand a chance against them in terms of design? We know looks are subjective but infusing a crossover feel to a hatchback won’t cut the mustard.
The 45X concept has a stylish coupe design which is in complete contrast to what has panned out on the production-spec Altroz. When the Altroz’s styling is compared against Tiago or Tigor, you would not find the premium hatchback eye-catching especially from the sides and the rear with a rather uninspiring finish. Is it just us or anyone thinks the Altroz is a missed opportunity in terms of design?