The expectations from the micro-SUV from Tata Motors codenamed HBX has been very high since it was first showcased at the Auto Expo 2020. The bold and muscular design and practicality of the utility vehicle meant that people got interested in it instantly. Also, being a micro-SUV, the affordability factor is bound to be in its favour as well. We have seen multiple spy shots of the HBX, which might also be called Timero, which has revealed that the production spec will resemble the concept car a lot which is only a good thing. We even had a glimpse of the interiors of the HBX, which looked promising and modern. Tata might launch the Kwid and Ignis rival by October 2021 in our market. Let us discuss what we can expect from the micro-SUV.
Also read: Upcoming Hyundai AX1 Micro-SUV Teased Ahead Of Debut – Kwid, HBX Rival!
Tata HBX – Expected Exteriors
From the concept car and various other spy shots that we have seen in the past, we have a fair idea of how the production-ready version of the HBX might look like. Much like the concept model showcased in the Auto Expo, the HBX is likely to get a split headlamp setup with LED DRLs on the top and the main headlamp cluster on the bumper down below. The broad front grille will give the HBX a wider appearance and the chunky air dams enhance the sportiness of the HBX. As confirmed by Tata Motors at the time of the Auto Expo, the production version of the concept was likely to retain over 90% of the concept’s designing elements. This clearly indicates that the production spec will be muscular and striking, which is also made clear from the spy shots. On the sides, the images show sporty dual-tone alloy wheels along with large wheel arches, floating roof and rear door handles on the window of the SUV. At the rear, however, things are not as clear as the front. By the looks of it though, the rear tail lamps might resemble those on the Nexon but we will have to wait a bit longer to be sure.
Also read: Upcoming Cars and SUVs in 2021 – Rapid, Taigun, Kushaq, HBX and more!
Tata HBX – Expected Interiors and Features
There have been a few spy shots of the cabin of the HBX as well. There is a flat-bottom steering wheel which is becoming very popular with modern cars including some of Tata’s own products. This gives it a very sporty feel which is necessary for an SUV. Some of the other equipment lists include a floating Digital Touchscreen Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Air-Con vents and Digital Instrument Cluster which might be borrowed from other Tata products. As seen in the Auto Expo 2020, the quality of the fit and finish is expected to be high.
Also read: Steering Mechanism – Working of Hydraulic, Electric & Electrohydraulic Power Steerings!
Tata HBX – Expected Engines, Transmissions, Prices and Rivals
The expected engine options might include a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine making 86hp. There might well be turbo petrol on offer as well. This engine will come mated to a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT gearbox, which was also spied earlier. This will prove to be a huge advantage in its favour to offer the micro-SUV with engine and transmission options. The expected prices of the Tata HBX are likely to be in the region of Rs 4 lakh to Rs 8 lakh, ex-showroom. The Tata HBX is likely to be launched in 2021. The list of rivals includes Renault Kwid, Maruti Suzuki S-Presso and Ignis, which are all very popular in the segment already and the upcoming micro-SUV from Hyundai, which is codenamed AX1. It was teased recently ahead of its global debut.
Also read: Isuzu mu-X vs Toyota Fortuner – Engines, Prices, Specs, Features, Safety Comparison!
