Tata Xenon Facelift will likely have the addition of Automatic gearbox as the biggest mechanical change; launch expected this fiscal
The test prototypes of the Tata Xenon pickup snapped by a Team-BHP reader indicate that the automatic transmission equipped version could be launched soon for the Indian commercial market. The Mumbai-based automaker has been doing good sales in the passenger vehicle segment courtesy of the Tiago alongside increase in commercial vehicle sales.
Tata Motors could be eyeing more customers in the pickup segment and it appears to be more serious with the development of the Xenon as it was spied being parked alongside a slightly camouflaged pre-facelifted version of the Ford Ranger. The latter is one of the widely recognised models elsewhere and thus setting it as a benchmark and carrying on the product development is indeed a good idea.
Also Read: Tata Xenon Automatic Debuts At 2016 Bangkok Motor Show
Moreover, the new Xenon might have large appeal when Tata tries to export the model to foreign countries as well. The facelifted Xenon is more likely to feature revised front grille, refreshed fog lamp enclosure and front bumper alongside the biggest mechanical change to come by – an automatic gearbox. The spied Xenon seems to be part of Tata’s test fleet as can be seen at the background with commercial load carriers fitted with test number plates.
The Tata Xenon facelift has long been touted to have an automatic transmission and it could be launched this fiscal. The possibilities of the clutchless Xenon facing a launch in Australia cannot be ruled out either if plans for India are just not there yet. The interior, if introduced in export markets, might see minor interior modifications.
Also Read: Tata Xenon Facelift to Launch Soon
As for the powertrain, the Tata Xenon facelift is likely to stay put with the 2.2-litre four-cylinder VARICOR diesel engine that is expected on the upcoming Hexa crossover. It currently churns out a maximum power output of 147 PS and 320 Nm of peak torque. The AT could witness a slight hike in performance to appeal for foreign markets.
Source: TeamBHP