Tata is soon going to add some very interesting models right at the entry level of the lineup. The new cars, codenamed as ‘KITE’ are expected to replace the ageing India range will include a hatchback as well as a compact sedan, smaller than Zest. However, unlike in the case of Zest and Bolt, the company will be launching the hatchback before the compact sedan. With the first teaser of the upcoming hatchback released more details about car have slowly started to emerge.
As per a report on Autocar India the hatchback has been codenamed as Kite 4 while its compact sedan sibling gets called as Kite 5. The cars will share certain critical components with the present Indica but will essentially be a new car. We have listed below the key pointer of the report for easy reference:
Tata Kite Details
- While the XO platform of the Indica will be used in the Kite, but apart from wheelbase, engine firewall and pedal box the Kite family will be a new product.
- The platform will receive some design refinements leading to improved torsional rigidity and dynamics. Kites will also get an all-new suspension setup. The fully independent rear suspension of the first gen Indica will be replace by the traditional non-independent twist beam axle.
- The Kite family will also get the electric power steering unit from the Bolt ant Zest.
- The diesel engine is expected to be a new 1.05 litre mill which is essentially a three cylinder version of the original 1,405 cc motor. the report claims that it produces 67 bhp of maximum power and 137 Nm of peak torque along with a fuel efficiency figure of more than 25 kmpl.
- What is more interesting is that Autocar claims that Kite siblings will come equipped with an all-new lightweight aluminium three cylinder 1.2 litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 84 bhp of power and 108 Nm of torque. This, they say, is different from the four cylinder 88 bhp, 140 Nm 1.2 litre turbocharged Revotron mill.
Tata is expected to unveil the Kite siblings soon and an official launch of one/both of them is expected in December.
