Tata Aquilla is expected to be priced aggressively to not only compete against Maruti Suzuki Baleno but the popular Swift as well
Tata Motors has been the centre of attraction in the last few months due to a long list of launches including Nexon Kraz, facelifted Tigor, JTP versions of Tiago and Tigor as well as the crossover-styled NRG based on Tiago. The Mumbai-headquartered brand’s aggressive push to be present in segments it has not competed in continues as two big launches are planned for next year.
While the Harrier five-seater premium SUV rivalling Hyundai Creta and Jeep Compass currently holds all the attention as it will likely arrive as early as January 2019, the more accessible 45X concept based premium hatchback is another key product for Tata. It will go up against segment leader Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai Elite i20, Honda Jazz and Volkswagen Polo.
The second vehicle to be based on Impact Design 2.0 will also become the first Tata to sit on the flexible ALPHA architecture that addresses upcoming products spanning below 4.3 m length. Going by Tata’s strategy in boldly pricing its vehicles, we can expect the 45X hatchback (codenamed X451) to have a price range of around Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 8.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
The price bracket will help in effectively undercutting its competitors while being able to attract customers from the top-selling Swift. The 45X could carry production name Aquilla and is expected to use the powertrain options from Nexon. If that becomes the case, the Aquilla will become the most powerful in its segment producing 110 PS from both the engines.
However, a recent report indicated that Tata will opt for a mild-hybrid system instead of the regular Revotron 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine for lowered emissions and increased fuel economy. It may get a 48 volt system aiding in idle start/stop conditions by helping acceleration at the tap of the right foot, just as in the S-Cross and Ciaz.
The powertrains will be BSVI compliant as the Aquilla is believed to go on sale only in the second half of 2019. Tata could throw in a number of segment first features to make matters interesting and it will get a range of standard features like dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors, speed warning function, etc. The interior will come equipped with premium quality materials and a large floating touchscreen enabling Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.