Tata Motors has taken the wraps off its new SUV concept, the H5X at Auto Expo 2018. It basically previews the new SUV that is set to join Tata Motors’ line-up later in this year and significantly, will be the first Tata vehicle to carry the brand’s new Impact Design 2.0 design philosophy.
It goes without saying that the H5X is an eyeball grabber with its long proportions and squat stance. The concept comes with massive 22-inch wheels with huge wheel arches that give it a great presence. Upfront the SUV's bold-face is characterised by slim high-set LED headlights, and there’s a new, more defined interpretation of Tata’s trademark ‘humanity line’ that connects the headlights and grille.
Lower down in the front bumper there’s what Tata has referred to as a ‘tri-arrow pattern', which is a highly stylised fog lamp enclosure. Prominent lines have been engraved in the sheet metal used to great effect on the H5X’s sides too which also comes with muscular cladding at the base of the doors.
The concept’s roofline slopes towards the rear and the glasshouse further narrows down near the C-pillar and then expands as it meets the rear windscreen to brilliant effect. There’s a smoked effect for the wraparound tail- lights, and wedge-shaped surfacing just below, as well as intricate detailing on the bumper as well.
The brilliant design carries on to the HX5’s insides as well, with a sleek clutter-free design, and uses premium materials that rival many a European luxury marque The concept features two individual seats at the rear but the final version will feature up to three rows of seating. There also a digital console along with touchscreen infotainment system that comes with various connectivity options.
The production SUV will be built on Land Rover’s L550 platform and will be available in five- and seven-seat versions. Powering the SUV will be a rebranded version of Fiat’s Multijet II diesel engine that also powers the Jeep Compass, albeit in 140hp (for the five-seater) and 170hp (for the seven-seater) forms.