With SUVs being more in demand, it is obvious that car makers are focusing on this segment. This year itself, has seen launch of so many new SUVs, starting with Tata Harrier, then came the Hyundai Venue followed by MG Hector and the soon going to be launched Kia Seltos.
All these SUVs registered have huge demand, which is the reason Tata is working towards offering an SUV to a buyer in each segment. Earlier this year, at the Geneva Motor Show, Tata showcased the H2X concept. This is a small, entry level SUV measuring about 3.7m, which will sit below Nexon (3.99m) in the company line-up.
The company also want to launch an SUV, which will sit above the Nexon, but below the Harrier (4.6m). This is where the Blackbird comes into the picture. Tata Blackbird (rumoured codename), will cater as a rival to the likes of Nissan Kicks, Hyundai Creta, Maruti S Cross, etc. Basically SUVs which are about 4.2-4.3m in length. At this length, the new Tata SUV will fit in comfortably between the sub 4 meter Nexon and 4.6 meter long Harrier.
Tata Blackbird will be positioned on the ALFA platform. This is a versatile platform, which will have cars which are 3.7 meters in length to cars that are 4.2 meters in length. The H2X as well as Blackbird, along with Altroz petrol and Altroz EV, are based on this ALFA platform.
The upcoming SUV will boast of a robust stance with styling based on the new IMPACT 2.0 DESIGN philosophy that debuted on the Harrier. Design elements could include several contemporary features such as a slimmer grille with a 3D Humanity line, large headlamps with LED DRLs and tri arrow shaped fog lamps. Design to the rear could see slimmer tail lamps, pronounced wheel arches and a sloping roofline
High tech interior features such as a large touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink and digital instrument console could be making its way into the new Blackbird while in terms of safety, there would be multiple airbags, ABS and EBD along with brake assist.
Though yet unconfirmed, engine specifications on the new Tata Blackbird could include a BS VI compliant 1.2 liter, turbo petrol engine tweaked to offer more power than Nexon. There could also be a 1.5 liter diesel engine as well as an electric engine, when the car launches sometime in 2021.
To be priced between the Nexon (Rs 6.7 – 11.07 lakhs) and Harrier (Rs 13.01 – 16.87 lakhs), the Blackbird could carry a price tag between Rs 9.5 – 13.5 lakhs. In this price range, it will find itself competing with the Hyundai Creta, Maruti S Cross, Nissan Kicks and Renault Duster.