Tata Motors is doing track tests for the Kite compact sedan hinting towards major upgrades to the driving dynamics with a balanced suspension set-up compared to the Tata Indica.
Having received rave reviews for the Zest compact sedan, its brand new model after 5 years, Tata Motors is leaving no stone unturned to improve on its new set of products that will help the auto giant make a big come back in the Indian market. While the Bolt is scheduled for launch later this week, Tata is also working on the Indica replacement codenamed ‘Kite’ that will spawn a hatchback and compact sedan. The Kite’s sedan derivative was caught testing at the Kari Motor Speedway in Tamil Nadu recently.
While not designed to be a track scorcher even by a long shot, Tata Motors could be testing the Kite sedan right from the engine performance, handling, braking as well as suspension set-up. The compact sedan will be positioned below the Zest in the company’s lineup and will be replacing the outgoing Indigo eCS. The model will draw power from the newly developed 1.2-litre Revotron engine, albeit without the turbocharger, while a 1.05-litre diesel engine is also said to be under development for the Kite twins.
The spy shot also showcases the Kite’s exterior design taking shape. Expect to see a Zest-like design but with a wider front grille and larger air intakes on the bumper. While we do expect the Tata to skimp down on the creature comforts, the upcoming models will come feature loaded with a host of essentials. Certain segment firsts can also be expected along with an extremely competitive price tag. Tata could be launching the Kite hatchback as early as June 2015, while the sedan could see a launch by the end of the year. Both the models will be produced at the automaker’s Sanand facility in Gujarat.