Tata Motors is developing a C-segment product codenamed the Tata Blackbird.
It is looking to capitalise on the lucrative SUV segment and can take on the highly popular Hyundai Creta.
Design
The car will be based on Tata’s Impact design language and will borrow elements from the Nexon and Harrier.
It gets DRLs on the top and bumper-mounted headlamps like the Harrier and Safari duo.
The posterior could have a tri-arrow theme to maintain uniformity.
Platform And Safety
The automaker will make use of the ALFA platform for the Blackbird.
The platform also underpins Nexon and Altroz.
It is reputed for its safety, something which can be marketed as a USP.
This should make the Blackbird stand out in a segment where most vehicles are either untested or have low safety scores.
Other contemporary features include a panoramic sunroof, floating touchscreen infotainment system, ambient lighting, ventilated seats, digital instrument cluster, drive modes and wireless charging.
Powertrain, Transmission
It will likely be running on the same engines as the Nexon.
It has both 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel engine.
Both will be modified to produce more power.
Transmission options include manual and a torque converter gearbox.
Launch
Launch is expected to take place in 2023.
However, delays due to the ongoing pandemic cannot be ruled out, especially as Tata Motors has not released any communication about the car.
Price
It could be priced higher than the Nexon and lower than the Harrier.
Presently, the Nexon costs between Rs 7.09 – 12.79 lakh while the Tata Harrier costs between Rs 13.99 – 20.45 lakh.
The Blackbird could start at Rs 10 lakh to give it a competitive edge.
