By 2020, Tata Hornbill will become the sub-Nexon SUV to rival the Maruti Y1K micro SUV that could replace the Ignis
Tata Motors has planned to launch a micro SUV that will be positioned below the Nexon. The new model will be introduced around 2020, by when Maruti would have come up with the codename Y1K. The sub-Nexon SUV is currently known as the Tata Hornbill. In spirit, it will be a hatchback that will bank upon the SUV traits from various other models in the company’s lineup.
On the other hand, the Maruti Y1K could be positioned above the Celerio in the company’s product portfolio. While the demand for the B1-segment hatchbacks has been quite high, demand for budget-end SUV-style products has been on a rise. The all-new model, which could revive the Zen brand in India, should help the company maintain its lead in this price segment. It is early to comment on the specifications, but one can expect it to have a BSVI-compliant petrol engine with an optional AMT.
The production-spec Tata Hornbill is expected to have a squarish design with many styling elements of the Nexon. The front-end could have a Nexon-like face, while the high ground clearance and the boxy design will help it pass off for an SUV.
The Tata Hornbill will be underpinned by the ALPHA platform, which will help it meet the regulations put forward by the Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program (BNVSAP). The Tata Hornbill will measure than 4 metres in length and is expected to be available in turbocharged petrol and diesel options.
As we said, the Maruti Hornbill will be available with a petrol engine only. While the Mahindra KUV100 has petrol as well as a diesel engine option, it has been a dud seller. The 1.3-litre DDIS190 that was earlier sold on the Ignis will be soon phased out, and the company doesn’t seem to have a low-capacity oil burner for future use. Hence, the Tata Hornbill will likely have a clear advantage over the Y1k in this aspect.
From the looks of it, the Tata Hornbill will be able to shake up the things a fair bit with its macho styling, feature-laden interior, strong specs, and attractive pricing.