The interiors of the Kite hatchback will see several parts come from the Zest and Bolt models to increase parts sharing and reduce overall costs on the models.
Tata Motors is all set to retire the Indica with the new Kite (codename) later this year and ahead of the launch expected around mid-2015, the interiors of the hatchback were caught on camera revealing a great deal about what to expect. Based on the revised Indica platform, the new Kite will be launched in hatchback and compact sedan body styles positioned below the Zest and Bolt models in Tata’s stable, but will be sharing a host of parts with the latter to keep costs in check.
Though the spy shot features a heavily camouflaged dashboard, we do get to see some very vital details including the multi-function steering wheel finished with brushed silver and the air-con vents that have been carried over from the Zest/Bolt models. The spied test mule also came with the regular air-con control, while it is widely reported that the higher variants will get automatic climate control on offer. The instrument cluster comes with a twin dial layout with the MID screen positioned in the centre.
In addition, there is also a possibility of a 2-DIN touchscreen infotainment system featuring on the new Kite as a segment first, but was not spotted on test mule. The Tata Kite will also come with several other features including electrically operated ORVMs while ABS and airbags could be restricted to the higher variants. The new Kite will come with a sporty and premium new look on the lines of the Zest and Bolt featuring a wide grille and large headlamps. At the rear, the car will feature new horizontally stacked tail lights and curvaceous boot-lid adding a young appeal to the car.
Power on the other hand comes from the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.05-litre diesel engines under the hood with both the powerplants paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Tata is surely hoping to get a similar outcome for the Kite models as they did for the Indica over a decade ago. Staying ahead of the curve, Tata will keep the prices extremely competitive starting around Rs. 3.5 lakhs (ex-showroom). The Kite will be competing against the Hyundai i10, Ford Figo and Maruti Celerio among others in the segment.
Source – Motoroctane.com