Tata Altroz NRG - IAB Rendering

In September 2018, Tata Motors introduced the Tiago NRG, a robust-looking version of its popular A2-segmenter (average monthly sale between Sept 2018-Feb 2019 - 7,618  units). IAB’s digital illustrator Shoeb Kalania has now created a rendering to visualise a similar model based on the recently unveiled Tata Altroz.

Imagined on the lines of the Tata Tiago NRG, the Altroz-based cross-hatch would feature prominent black plastic cladding around the lower body and faux skid plates. Highlights are likely to include several black bits that will replace the chrome trim, roof rails, and larger alloy wheels. The additional ground clearance would give it a more imposing stance and even help the vehicle tackle the rough roads better.

The Tata Altroz was unveiled at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show this month. The company's latest B-segment hatchback is the production version of the Tata 45X concept that debuted at the Auto Expo 2018. The Tata Altroz is the company's second production model to be designed as per its Impact Design 2.0 philosophy. The new model is underpinned by the in-house developed Agile Light Flexible Advanced (ALFA) architecture.

Powering the Tata Altroz should be an all-new 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that will be available with mild-hybrid technology and even a dual-clutch automatic transmission, both of which will be firsts for a production-spec Tata Motors model. A diesel engine option is highly unlikely to be offered due to high costs of a BS-VI-compliant oil-burner. That said, the Altroz will become the first of the next generation EVs from the company.

The Tata Altroz will launch later this year, expectedly in the June-July period. It will rival the likes of Maruti Baleno, Hyundai Elite i20 and Honda Jazz, with its prices likely to start around INR 5.5 lakh (ex-showroom).