HIGHLIGHTS

Tata, the homegrown automaker has revealed Hexa SUV at the ongoing IAE 2016. Being the Aria replacement, the car holds the ‘Most Feature-Driven’ label and carries forward the legacy for outside appearance. While, the modernistic design for interiors, improved steering and dashboard are the updations made this time. Mechanically, the vehicle copies the power source of Tata Safari Storme which is a VARICOR 400 2.2L diesel mill and belts out 153bhp with 400Nm torque. A GMPT sourced 6-speed automatic gearbox is optionally associated with the motor besides the manual transmission. Moreover, the 4WD, drive-mode selector and the suspension settings make it quite economical. Six-airbags, ESP and TMS become very practical on the protection’s front. The SUV was displayed at the Geneva Motor Show as a concept vehicle and the same has been unveiled as a production version at Auto Expo.

TATA HEXA SPECIFICATIONS

Fuel Type: Petrol   |   Transmission: Automatic   |   Mileage: City(14.0), Highway(17.6)

OVERVIEW

This vehicle is going to be fitted with a 2.2-litre diesel engine, which is currently performing duties in the Aria model series. However the power and torque output is expected to be increased to 154bhp and 400Nm respectively. It is reported that the vehicle will be available with an automatic and a six speed manual transmission gearbox option to pick from. This is the first time ever that any model from Tata's portfolio gets a 6-speed manual gearbox.

EXTERIORS

The exterior images of this upcoming crossover reveals that it has a similar looking body structure like Aria. However, the designers of the company have managed to make it look different from the existing vehicle. The front facade looks completely unique from the models available in Tata's portfolio. It has a glossy black perforated radiator grille with chrome plated strip underlining it. The headlight cluster has a swept-back design and is housed with projector lamps. The front bumper is large with a masculine design and houses a couple of fog lamps along with a bigger air dam. Its side profile too is distinct in the form of blackened pillars and redesigned fenders. We can also see that the body colored ORVMs have turn blinkers for added protection. After the vehicle is launched, it is going to get steel and alloy wheel options depending on the variants. The rear facet looks equally stylish as its front profile, thanks to the LED look alike taillights along with turn indicators. The tailgate looks very attractive as it has a smiley shaped license plate console with chrome accents. The bumper below has a dual tone look and is further fitted with metallic cladding. On the whole, this crossover looks impressive and is going give tough times to other manufacturers.

Exterior Measurements:

This upcoming vehicle is based on Aria, which measures more than 4.7 meters in length and has a wheelbase of about 2850mm. However, the exact measurements will be disclosed only after the official launch.

INTERIORS

The interior design seems quite captivating with a plusher cabin that appears to be designed with premium material. As we can see in the images, it has a dual tone internal cabin featuring some brushed metallic accents. The steering wheel has a signature design and is housed with multi-functional switches. The front central console is massive and housed with aspects like an infotainment system along with an AC unit and few other such aspects. At the same time, it is also seen with high gloss black surround that adds to the classiness. This vehicle is seen with six seating option featuring captain seats in the first and second row, while the third row has bench seat. All these seats are covered with good quality fabric upholstery, but we can expect leather upholstery in its top end variants.

Interior Comfort:

In terms of comfort features, there is still no word from the company about the variant levels and their aspects. But, at the same time it is certain that the vehicle will be introduced in multiple trim levels. Here, we can speculate a few features like an automatic AC unit, power assisted steering system along with electrically operated outside mirrors along with several storage units. Apart from these, we can expect aspects like adjustable driver's seat, power windows with one touch operation, armrests and cup holders as well.

Interior Measurements:

At present, it is very hard to assume the interior measurements of this vehicle, since it is yet to be launched. As the vehicle is expected with a wheelbase of more than 2800mm, the cabin should provide better leg room and shoulder space. Once it is launched, it is expected to come with a six and seven seater option to select from.

MILEAGE

Apparently, the engine is going to be the same 2.2-litre diesel mill, which is powering the Aria. However, sources claimed that it has received modifications, which will help it to be more efficient in terms of power and fuel efficiency. Currently, it is producing a mileage of about 15.1 Kmpl, but as a result of improvements, it might deliver a mileage in the range of 17 to 20 Kmpl.

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE

According to the speculations, this vehicle is going to be fitted with a 2.2-litre diesel engine. This is a 4-cylinder mill based on DOHC configuration and is integrated with a turbocharger. It has a displacement capacity of 2179cc and has a common rail fuel injection technology. The company's officials has stated that this motor has undergone modifications that improved its overall power output. Many believe that this updated engine can produce a power of 154bhp along with a commanding torque of 400Nm. For the first time, this engine is going to be coupled with a six speed manual transmission wherein the automatic gearbox is also on cards.

STEREO & ACCESSORIES

Like the recently launched Tata models, this upcoming crossover is also supposed to come with all the ConnectNext infotainment aspects including a touchscreen device along with navigation function. Furthermore, it could also include a CD player along with a few connectivity aspects like USB, AUX-In and Bluetooth for added convenience. Beside these, other aspects like parking assistance featuring sensors and reverse camera are highly anticipated among the equipments. The buyers would be able to further accessorize this upcoming vehicle with several innovative aspects like a set of alloy wheels, foot mats, mud guards, varied set of seat covers, body decals and other such stuff.

SAFETY & SECURITY

As of now, we can only speculate about some important protective aspects like airbags, side impact beams, crumple zones, three point ELR seat belts and adjustable head restraints. Along with these, there should be central locking system, engine immobilizer, parking sensors, ORVMs with turn blinkers, driver's seatbelt alert and a few other.

WHEELS

This upcoming vehicle could be offered with either a set of 16 inch or 17 inch wheels depending on the variant chosen. At the same time, there should be an option to select between steel and alloy wheels. There would certainly be a spare wheel given with each of its variant along with other tools.

ACCELERATION & PICK-UP

There is no doubt that with such output figures and improved transmission, this vehicle could reach a top speed anywhere in the range of 195 Kmph. In the meantime, we can expect it to break the 100 Kmph mark in around 8 to 10 seconds.

POWER OF TATA HEXA

Experts believe that this re-tuned motor of 2179cc might be able to generate a maximum power of about 154bhp along with 400Nm of torque. This will be a sizable improvement as compared to the existing version.