Tata has been caught testing the upcoming HBX micro SUV with an AMT recently, indicating that the model will be offered with 2 gearbox choices.
Although we had speculated that the car will come with an AMT and a 5-speed manual gearbox, both of which will be mated to a 1.2-litre petrol engine, this is likely the first time the HBX has been spotted sporting the unit.
This is the same AMT that is offered with the Tiago and even the part of the centre console where the gear selector is placed looks not unlike the one on the small Tata hatchback.
These aside, the Tata HBX AMT spied on test has the same interior design as the concept that was shown at the 2020 Auto Expo.
Inside, as has been spied earlier, the micro SUV will come with a 7-inch floating touchscreen, squared centre air-con vents, while the multifunction steering wheel and switchgear will be borrowed from the Tiago.
It is likely that the model will also feature the latest digital instrument display and will also be practical, with space for a 1-litre water bottle at the front door cards, to say the least.
The micro SUV will be positioned under Nexon and thus has borrowed some of the compact SUV’s design cues. The exterior image of the Tata HBX AMT spied car shows that it will feature a split headlamp design.
Also, the lower air dam features tri-arrow design elements flanked by the fog lights. While the grille has been covered, it is likely that it will be a smaller version of the element already seen on the Harrier.
Riding on Tata’s Duralloy wheels, the rear ones seem to be a lot more inward and thus ungainly, the HBX will come with proper alloy wheels too.
Expected to be launched this year, the HBX will have to duke it out with the Maruti Suzuki Ignis, Mahindra KUV100 and the upcoming Hyundai AX1 in the slowly growing micro SUV class.
Source – AutocarIndia.com