Tata’s Maruti Baleno-challenger 45X launch time revealed

Tata is on a spree to launch new vehicles in the market and after the launch of the performance versions of the Tiago and the Tigor, the Indian manufacturer is now working on the launch of the Harrier SUV. Soon after, the launch of the Harrier, Tata will launch the premium hatchback code-named as 45X that will take on the likes of Maruti Suzuki Baleno and the Hyundai Elite i20.

Render courtesy IAB

Tata is currently testing the 45X extensively on the Indian roads. As per ACI, the all-new premium hatchback 45X’s production version will be launch in August 2019. The 45X would be the first premium hatchback from the brand and the production version is expected to remain close to the concept version that was revealed at the 2018 Auto Expo.

As Tata stays close to the concept designs when it comes to the production version, the 45X is expected to be the same. It will get the Impact Design 2.0 language with clear body creases and other elements. The hatchback is expected to get a large headlamp unit that will smoothly integrate into the front grille of the vehicle. Tata will not follow the design of different LED DRLs and headlamp set-up as seen on the Harrier. Instead, the fog lamps will be placed on the bumper of the vehicle.

The 45X will get a futuristic and sleek design. The upswept window line shows how the vehicle will ensure an aggressive side body design. The spy pictures also reveal that the 45X would get big wheels and prominent wheel arches. On the inside, the 45X will continue to offer best-in-class features.

Even though Tata has not revealed anything officially, the vehicle’s dashboard would get a large touch-screen infotainment system, that is likely to be the largest in the segment. Tata may use the same infotainment system that will be available with the upcoming Harrier but it would not be as big in size.

Tata will use the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with the 45X but it is expected to get a mild hybrid system similar to the ones we see in the Maruti Suzuki vehicles in India. Tata is expected to work on the engine and re-tune it for more power and lesser vibrations.

The diesel versions of the 45X will be powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit that is also available with the Nexon. However, it is unclear if Tata will use the same hybrid systems in the diesel-powered variants. Tata is expected to use an all-new twin-clutch transmission in the 45X.

Like the Tiago JTP and Tigor JTP, Tata may launch a more powerful, high-performance version of the 45X too. The vehicle will take on the Maruti Suzuki Baleno RS and the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI. The vehicle may get newly tuned suspension system too.

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