Tata Motors to launch Kite in 2015 with 1.05L diesel engine

Tata Motors has been working on a new hatchback that is expected to be launched in 2015. Test mules of the car, codenamed Kite, have been seen on numerous occasions near the company's Pune factory. Positioned between the Nano and the upcoming Bolt, the Kite will be based on the Indica's platform and will take on the Maruti Suzuki Celerio and similar hatchbacks.

The Kite is likely to feature Tata Motors' new design language with the signature honeycomb grille and a roofline that slopes down backwards. The Christmas tree tail lamps which were common on older Tata cars are likely to be left out for a pair of horizontal wrap around units. The Kite is rumoured to look remarkable different to other Tata products with some influence from new cars such and the Zest, Bolt and the Nexon concept SUV. 

The interior of the Kite is also expected to be new. However, from pictures of the car taken on previous occasions, it is clear that the Kite will borrow some components from other cars in the Tata family.

The Kite is likely to be powered by a new 1.05-litre, 3-cylinder, common rail diesel engine that is expected to put out 64 bhp and 140 Nm of torque. This is the same engine that was displayed by the company at the 2012 Auto Expo. Additionally, the Kite is expected to be available with a 1.2-litre petrol engine. LPG, CNG and AMT-equipped variants are expected as well.

The Kite will be a replacement for the Indica and a compact sedan based on it will take the place of the Indigo eCS in the company's line-up.

Source: Autocar India