It seems that TATA proposed but public disposed equation came ahead this time. As Tata was planning to invent a New Sedan to compete Honda City and Maruti Ciaz, as showcased at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. But, the burgeoning demand of SUVs and the fading demand for sedans consequenced the Tata sedan project stagnant and replaced it with the new Blackbird project.
Research and consumer data crystal cleared that the love for SUV is in the air. So Tata came with an idea of A completely new SUV in the company line-up which will fill the chasm between Nexon and Harrier.
Nexon is a sub 4 meter SUV priced in the range of Rs 6-11 lakhs while Harrier is a full-sized SUV which is priced in the range of Rs 13-17 lakhs. In between the two, there is a huge price gap which Tata wants to fill with Blackbird.
At the 2018 Auto Expo, Tata Motors exhibited six new cars which included 3 Alfa platform based- low cost and 3 Omega Arc platform based- expensive.
The new Tata Blackbird SUV will be built on the Alfa platform, and not on the Omega Arc platform – to keep its cost in the range of Rs 8-13 lakhs. It is technically not possible to develop SUV at the cost of Sedan on the Omega Arc platform, and thus Tata Motors finalised to build the SUV on Alfa platform.
Engine options are not yet unveiled. But the Blackbird SUV is expected to be powered by same petrol and diesel engine options same as offered by Tata Nexon. Blackbird SUV is expected to make debut at the 2020 Auto Expo in Feb next year, while final launch may take place by 2021