Tata Motors are about to launch their premium hatchback the Altroz, with the car slated to hit the shelves by mid-2019. We give you the top five things you should know about this interesting new release from the Indian automobile manufacturing giant.
Inspiration
The Tata Altroz is based on the 45X Concept car showcased at the Auto Expo 2018. The car is inspired by the albatross, one of the largest birds in the world, and they say the car will ‘woo’ customers due to its class-leading offerings. Characteristics of the albatross such as agility, speed, and efficiency shall be portrayed in the new vehicle. However, the albatross is an ocean bird, hence Car India doesn’t advise following all characteristics of the animal with the Tata Altroz.
Platform
The Tata Altroz will be engineered on the new Agile Light Flexible Advanced (ALFA) architecture. Tata’s Impact 2.0 design language is the basis of the new Tata Altroz. This new ALFA platform will in all probability be used in the next generation Tiago, Nexon, and Tigor. Furthermore, Tata will launch a new sedan on the same principals and platform of this premium hatchback.
Design
Sharp angles on this futuristic design give the car a very sporty look. however, the lines do flow well and proportionately. Slim LED headlamps are nestled within a similarly slim grille with a sleek bonnet that flows seamlessly into the windscreen. The floating-roof tapers towards the rear where you get sharp tail-lights jutting out the sides, just a bit. This is what the 45X Concept looks like, how much will carry forward onto the Altroz? We shall have to wait and see.
Performance
The car would get two engine options according to reports, one of two petrols and a diesel. The petrol engines would either be the one found on the Tiago, a 1.2-litre three-cylinder naturally-aspirated unit or the 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder unit from the Nexon. The diesel variant will sport a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine. In addition, the car will also have a host of safety features such as driver and co-driver airbags, ABS, EBD, park assist (courtesy of cameras and sensors), ISOFIX child-seat anchors, and connectivity to match rivals in the segment. Speaking of which…
Competition
The Tata Altroz is about to enter a segment ruled by the two most successful small car companies in India, Maruti Suzuki, and Hyundai. Maruti Suzuki’s Baleno and Hyundai’s i20 Elite whitewash any newcomers that have tried to enter their hallowed ground. These two companies share almost 85 per cent of the market share, and it sure will be quite a feat to find decent success. However, a good looking car, high performance, well thought-out features, and a competitive price should see the Tata Altroz make a strong case. Will the Altroz edge its way into the top of the segment? We shall have to see.
Story: Zal Cursetji
