Tata Motors is preparing to further strengthen its SUV lineup. The company has planned to launch 7 new models by the year 2030, and this list includes a new compact SUV, codenamed Scarlet. This SUV is being prepared keeping in mind the fast-growing sub-4 meter segment in India.
Design and Platform
The look of Scarlet will be very boxy and upright, as seen in the design language inspired by Tata’s iconic Sierra. This SUV will be based on a monocoque platform, which will be compatible with both ICE (petrol/diesel) and EV (electric vehicle) powertrains.
Engine and EV Versions
There is no official information about the powertrain at the moment, but the possibilities are:
- 1.2L turbo-petrol (from Nexon) – 120hp
- 1.2L direct-injection turbo-petrol (from Curvv), 125 hp
- 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol – new engine
- EV version: It can get motors on the front and rear axles, which will give the option of all-wheel drive (AWD). However, AWD will not be available in the ICE version, as that will not be possible considering the cost and packaging.
Also Read: 7 Upcoming Tata Cars Before 2030: Sierra EV, Avinya, Harrier Petrol Confirmed
Price and Competition
The prices of this new Scarlet SUV are expected to be around the current Nexon (₹8 lakh – ₹15.6 lakh / approx. $9,600 – $18,800) and Nexon EV (₹12.49 lakh – ₹17.19 lakh / approx. $15,000 – $20,700). However, the company’s focus will be that these two models do not harm each other’s sales.
It will be positioned as a lifestyle SUV, meaning it will look rugged but will not offer the same off-roading capabilities as the Mahindra Thar or Maruti Jimny, as its base is a monocoque chassis, not a body-on-frame.
More upcoming EV Models From Tata
Apart from the Scarlet, Tata is also working on two more compact EVs, codenamed Kuno and Terra. The company aims to offer two models in each segment (entry, mid, and high-level).
Tata Motors MD Shailesh Chandra has already hinted at this EV strategy. More information about these new models will be revealed in the coming months.
The Tata Scarlet could be a smart move, especially for buyers who want styling like the Thar or Jimny but prefer more comfort and technology for everyday use. With the Scarlet, Tata is set to further expand its reach in the compact SUV segment.
Also Read: Is Tata Sierra 2025 India’s Most Anticipated SUV? Price, EV Power & Features Revealed
(1 USD ≈ ₹83.1 as of July 2025)
Source: AutoCar India