The new Tata HBX compact-SUV concept comes to Auto Expo 2020 in an off-road-ready avatar.
Tata Motors has unveiled its new compact-SUV concept dubbed as the HBX at Auto Expo 2020. The Tata HBX concept was previously known as the H2X or Hornbill and the updated nomenclature hints to the fact that it is becoming closer to production. The upcoming compact-SUV from Tata Motors made its very first debut back at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show.
The Tata HBX concept is based on the brands ALFA Arc platform that underpins the new Altroz premium hatchback. The architecture supports a variety of body styles and powertrains, and one can expect more products (even a sedan) from it in the future.
At Auto Expo 2020, the Tata HBX sported an off-road-ready theme. This includes off-road-spec tyres, roof rack (with the spare wheel), LED light bar and of course, an impressive stance. Meanwhile, the interiors of the concept were also open to the public unlike in the case of the earlier H2X or Hornbill concept formats.
It seems as if Tata Motors is taking things a bit slower with the HBX compact-SUV. Tata Motors already sells the Nexon as a desirable choice in India’s compact-SUV market. It is only recently that the company introduced a facelifted version of the same (as well as its full-electric Nexon EV avatar). Hence, introducing the new Tata HBX in the current scenario might create an internal competition between it and the Nexon. Of course, the HBX’s final production version will sport an all-new nametag.
Most likely, the Tata HBX will sport the same powertrain formats available in the Nexon as of now, but maybe in a different state of tune, In the Tata Nexon, the 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine makes close to 110bhp and 114Nm of torque. The 1.5-litre diesel motor is good for 108bhp and 260Nm. Both engines come mated to a 6-speed or an AMT unit.
Even though it is too early to confirm, the Tata HBX may even join the brand’s all-electric portfolio with Ziptron technology, at some point in the future. For the time being, we have the Tata HBX concept at Auto Expo 2020 as an insight into the product strategy of Tata Motors in the years to come.