Tata developing a Mahindra XUV500 rival – EXCLUSIVE

Tata Motors have been working on developing a new SUV which will challenge the Mahindra XUV 500.

This new SUV will be based on the Raptor platform, which underpins the new Sumo too.

Codenamed Q502, the new SUV will be a seven-seater in the segment where the XUV500 operates.

 The pricing of this new SUV will be between INR 15-18 lakhs (on-road) and will be feature-loaded.

It will get the Harman touchscreen infotainment system with 10-speakers and a completely new interior styling.

The Raptor platform, which is based on Land Rover’s Integrated Body Frame,  is already seen on the Discovery 4, one of the most capable off-roaders.  Tata Motors will be using this Land Rover technology to make its vehicle better than competition.. The XUV500 is an all-wheel drive, while Tata Motors will utilise the Land Rover 4WD technology.

Tata wants to build a capable off-roader, which will be positioned above the Safari Storme. The Q502 will be powered by a new 2.0-litre Multijet engine from Fiat, which is under consideration and not yet finalised. Even Fiat plans to use this engine to power Jeep’s all new C-segment SUV, which will be also be exported from the India to other markets. Fiat is also developing a 1.5-litre diesel engine for India, which will be derived from the 1.6-litre multijet engine. Alternately, Tata may also use the 2.2 VARiCOR engine with a six-speed transmission.

The Q502 will be manufactured in Ranjangaon, which is the joint venture plant of Tata and Fiat. It is expected to debut in 2017 and will mark a generation change in SUVs for Tata Motors.