Tata working on compact SUV, code-named ‘Osprey’
Tata Motors, the homegrown automotive giant is working with a full-pipeline of new products in various stages of development. Some like the ‘Kite’ hatchback & sedan, along with the upcoming ‘Hexa’ crossover are almost ready for launch. On the other hand, sources have revealed that Tata Motors has also begun working on a compact SUV, code-named ‘Osprey’. The new compact SUV will go up in competition against the Ford EcoSport and the Mahindra TUV300 in addition to another yet-to-be-launched compact SUV – the Maruti XA Alpha. Expected to be launched sometime late next year, the Tata Osprey will be priced in the INR 6-10 Lakh range.
Details are rather scarce at this stage but it is learned that the existing Bolt/Zest platform shall form the underpinnings for the new Tata compact SUV. The engine options too shall be shared, with the 1.2 litre Revotron and the Fiat sourced 1.3 litre Multijet making the petrol and diesel options respectively. Gearbox options too are to be the same as offered on the current Bolt/Zest, so expect to see a AMT Diesel variant on the Tata Osprey as well. To take on the TUV300, Tata could very well offer a seven-seat option on their upcoming compact SUV.
The Tata Osprey can trace its roots back to the Nexon concept that the automaker had showcased at the Indian Auto Expo, back in 2014. If the styling indicators are anything to go by, then the Osprey could sport the spare wheel mounted on the tailgate, in a bid to up the tough and aggressive look. Rumoured to be high on cabin space and with a host of passenger comforts, the compact SUV is currently at the prototyping stages. It will thus be interesting to track the test-mules as they tour the length and breadth of the country in the coming months. So stay tuned for spy pictures and more details on this promising compact SUV.
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