IAB reader snaps the Tata Kite (Indica replacement) up close - Spied

To be launched next year.

Under Tata Motors' Horizonext strategy, the next launch after the Bolt hatchback is expected to be the Indica replacement, codenamed Kite. Based on a modified version of the Indica platform, the Kite will be positioned below the Bolt, and will get a sedan version (Indigo eCS replacement) too. Spotted up close this time is the Kite hatchback, which still under camouflage, gives away a couple of details regarding the car.

First up, the front end: While the headlamps don't appear to be production-spec, the cuts in the camouflage reveal that the wraparound headlamp design could be similar to that of the Vista, elongated towards the ends, and the grille shows a honeycomb structure.

And much like the Bolt, there has been a massive change at the rear. Gone are the X-mas tree lights of the Indica, which means the rear windscreen is larger. The bootlid appears to have a different design compared to the Indica as well.

In terms of engines, Tata Motors is expected to give the Kite two of its new engines - a 1.2-litre and a 1.05-litre 3-cylinder diesel, the latter reportedly develops 64 hp and 142 Nm of maximum torque. An automated manual transmission (AMT) is also likely to be offered.

Also read: Bookings for the Tata Bolt open at Rs 11,000 

The Kite hatchback will be produced at Tata's manufacturing plant in Sanand, Gujarat, while its sedan version could also be made at the same facility. Expected to launch next year, the Kite and Kite-based compact sedan will be volume spinning products for the Indian car maker.

Competitors: Chevrolet Beat, Maruti Wagon R, Maruti Celerio, Hyundai i10
Expected Price: INR 3.5-4.5 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: H2 2015