Upcoming Tata micro-SUV christened HBX

Tata Motors has released a first teaser video for its upcoming micro-SUV that will to launch in India in the coming months. The teaser confirms that the micro-SUV will be called Tata HBX upon launch. Internally known as Tata Hornbill, this new micro-SUV was previewed as the Tata HBX concept at the Auto Expo 2020 and also as the H2X concept at the Geneva motor in 2019.   

• Tata HBX micro SUV prices to be announced in the coming months
• To sit below the Nexon in Tata motors' SUV line-up
• Likely to come with two 1.2-liter petrol engine options

Tata HBX micro-SUV: production version to continue with concept's name

With the first teaser, the company has confirmed that it will continue with the already popular "Tata HBX" moniker for the production version of its smallest SUV. This is the one of the first instances where Tata Motors has decided to stick with the concept's name for the production model as almost all of its concept vehicles have been launched with a different marketing name. 

Tata HBX micro SUV: expected design and styling cues

Multiple sightings of test mules have confirmed that the production-spec HBX will look more or less like the concept however some design bits will be toned down. The HBX will get Harrier and Safari-link front styling with a split headlamp setup and Tata's humanity line grille.  It will get squared-out wheel arches and SUV-like upright proportions.  Expect prominent cladding on all sides including the front and the back for that rugged SUV looks. 

Tata HBX micro-SUV: platform and dimensions

As announced by the brand at the Auto Expo 2020, the HBX will share its underpinnings with the Tata Altroz and will be the brand's second product to be based on the modular ALFA architecture. As far as dimensions go, the In terms of size, the production-spec HBX is expected to be quite close to the concept’s 3,840mm length, 1,822mm width, 1,635mm height, and a 2,450mm wheelbase which is identical to the Tigor compact sedan.

Tata HBX micro-SUV: interior detials

The basic look of the HBX's interior will, just like the exterior, mimic the concept to a great extent.  Most variants will come with a 7-inch free-standing infotainment screen as standard.  There will be a lot of part sharing with other Tata models like the sporty three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, the digital instrument cluster from the Altroz, switch-gear and the front seats to name a few.

Tata HBX micro-SUV:  expected engine and powertrain options

Two petrol engines are expected to be offered on the HBX.  These will be 1.2-liter NA and turbo units seen on duty on the Tiago, Tigor and the Altroz.  Gearbox options will include a five-speed manual as well as an AMT automatic. There are talks of higher variants getting drive modes as well.

Tata HBX micro-SUV:  expected rivals in India

As far as rivals go, the HBX will take on the likes of the Maruti Ignis and the Mahindra KUV100 when it launches in the coming months. Additionally, the HBX will also see competition from Hyundai next year when the Korean brand will introduce an all-new micro-SUV, likely to be called the Casper in our market