KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Tata Scarlet: New sub-4-metre SUV
- Boxy design inspired by Tata Sierra
- Monocoque platform supports ICE, EV powertrains
- Positioned as rugged, lifestyle-centric SUV
- Competes with next-gen Mahindra Bolero
In a move to expand its presence in the high-demand sub-4-metre SUV segment, Tata Motors is preparing to launch an all-new vehicle under the codename Scarlet. Designed to appeal to lifestyle buyers and rugged SUV enthusiasts alike, the Scarlet marks Tata's shift toward more purpose-driven design and powertrain versatility.
Spy shots and industry whispers indicate that this new model is much more than just another urban crossover - it could very well be Tata's answer to the next-gen Mahindra Bolero. Checkout more details below and make sure you join our 91Wheels WhatsApp community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
Read more: Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Hits 500,000th Skoda Car Milestone: Details Here
Design
The Scarlet will reportedly draw heavy design cues from the upcoming Tata Sierra, particularly in its upright stance and boxy silhouette. Expect slab-sided body panels, squared wheel arches, and a bold front fascia - moving away from the coupe-inspired curves seen on the Nexon. This makes it ideal for those who want their SUV to look the part of a true adventure vehicle.
ICE and EV Options in One
What truly sets Scarlet apart is the new monocoque platform it's built on. Engineered from the ground up to accommodate both internal combustion and electric powertrains, this chassis opens up a wide array of possibilities. While official powertrain specs remain under wraps, insiders suggest Tata may borrow from its current arsenal - like the Nexon's 1.2L turbo-petrol or the Curvv's 1.2L direct-injection turbo unit. There's even talk of a new naturally aspirated 1.5L petrol engine being in the pipeline.
The electric version of Scarlet is expected to offer something more than the norm - possibly dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup for enhanced off-road capability. On the flip side, ICE versions are unlikely to feature AWD, mainly due to packaging challenges and cost efficiency concerns.
Strategic Positioning to Avoid Internal Competition
With an expected price bracket that overlaps with the Tata Nexon and Nexon EV, the Scarlet will be positioned carefully to prevent cannibalizing sales within Tata's existing portfolio. Instead, it will likely be marketed as a tougher, lifestyle-centric SUV that sits beside - not in place of - the Nexon. In other words, Scarlet is for those who want capability and presence over urban sophistication.
Taking On the New-Gen Bolero?
The timing of Scarlet's development is particularly noteworthy given Mahindra's upcoming revamp of the Bolero. The next-gen Bolero is said to take design inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, promising a squared-off, brawny profile that screams durability. This makes it a direct rival to what Scarlet is shaping up to be - especially for buyers looking for a tough, no-nonsense SUV in a compact form.
With Bolero's reinvention on the horizon, the sub-4-metre SUV battleground is heating up. The Scarlet could be the game-changer Tata needs to capture a slice of the "true SUV" demographic.
Tata's Bigger EV Ambitions
Scarlet is just one part of a much larger strategy. Tata is reportedly working on two more sub-compact EVs, internally named Kuno and Terra. These additions will help Tata fulfill its vision of offering a dual-approach - ICE and EV - in every major segment, from entry-level to premium.
Read more: MG M9 EV Price Could Be a Shocker - Under Rs 70 lakh? Here's Why
Verdict
With its tough design, multiple powertrain options, and a clear focus on lifestyle appeal, the Tata Scarlet is shaping up to be a unique contender in the sub-4-metre SUV space. While more details are expected to surface soon, one thing's clear-Tata Motors is gearing up for a fierce showdown with Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, and even itself.
