Tata will launch the Hexa for the Indian market early next year and it is expected to be a very important vehicle for the Mumbai- based SUV maker. Unveiled and showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo, this will be their competitor in the D-segment. Ahead of its debut, here are some of the must- know facts about the Hexa.
Design
The Hexa is the second vehicle in the Tata stable to sport the Impact design language. Highlights include LED DRLs, projector headlamps, chrome-laced fascia and large 19-inch alloy wheels. The cabin has been trimmed out in black with silver inserts for the centre console and dashboard.
Engine and gearbox
The Hexa is powered by a 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 153bhp/400Nm of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels/rear wheels via a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. In the case of the former, it is a torque-on-demand system.
Drive modes
It will be offered with four driving modes - comfort, dynamic, auto mode and rough road all of which, we believe, will alter the response of the throttle and the gearbox. A stability programme is expected to be standard in the automatic variants while driving aids like hill hold function, ABS with EBD will be available across both.
Features
Given it positioning in the market, Tata has packed the Hexa with a full list across the table. This includes 10 speaker JBL audio system, ambient lighting, climate control, touchscreen infotainment system, eight-way adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control, follow me home headlamps and 12V charging points in row two and three. Lastly, the car can be had both as a six seater as well as a seven seater.
Smart phone integration
Each Hexa owner gets the option of downloading a dedicated mobile app that gives the user access to functions likes maps, music playlist control, smart remote and interior light settings.
Expected pricing
If Tata needs to make the Hexa work then it needs to put in a price point in the market where it will undercut the other major seven seater vehicle - the XUV500. This means they will have to price it in the range of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 17 lakh.
