This is the next big launch from Tata Motors. No, your eyes do not deceive; however, it is, in fact Tata’s premium crossover (codenamed Q501), seen here wearing a Land Rover Discovery Sport exterior, which shares its LR-MS platform. But this platform is modified to meet the Indian road conditions on the Q501.
The test-mule is hiding under the body-shell of the Land Rover Discovery Sport.
At first glimpse, although the test-mule seems indistinguishable with the premium British SUV. It wears Hexa XE’s steel wheels & tyres, a single exhaust pipe and red license plate. Also note the telemetry equipment strapped on the A-Pillar with steel wheels indicating a different body on the top for most likely camouflage reasons.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that Tata Motors had given a green signal for the production of Q501 and things work-out as per calculation, the premium crossover will launch sometime in 2018. Expected to be priced between Rs. 20-25 lakh, it will be positioned above the Tata Hexa, and directly compete with the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour.
Tata Q501 will share the floor pan and structural components with the Discovery Sport.
Under the sheet metal, the upcoming the Q501 will get power from a Fiat-sourced 2.0-litre MultiJet II diesel engine that is expected to spit-out around 170 bhp of peak power. This unit will be paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox as well as automatic transmission. The base model will feature a FWD configuration, while the top trims will get an AWD system with a Land Rover’s Terrain Response program.
By the year 2020, Tata Motors will make sure every rival is targeted in every category. Started with Tiago to take down the Celerio, Dzire with Kite5, Nexon will take on the Brezza, Innova rival is the all-new Hexa and there is a proposed Baleno & Fortuner rival in the works. The Q501 will feature a unique exterior and interior worthy of a premium flagship model.
We have been waiting for this model, ever since Tata Motors acquired Jaguar Land Rover.
Checkout more spy pictures, after a jump.
To read more on Tata-Land Rover SUV, Click here
Also see: Tata Q501 & Q502 based on Land Rover Discovery Sport
Image Courtesy: TAI & Thrustzone
