Renault Kwid rival in the making at Tata Nano plant

The upcoming small car is likely to adopt a new 1.0L petrol motor.A Tata Nano based small car is reportedly in the works to take on the Renault Kwid. The new hatchback in question will be a size larger than the Nano and will slot below the newly launched Tiago.

Business-Standard reports that the new product will be benefiting from an improved version of the Nano’s platform. While Nano was originally engineered with stringent cost targets, the new derivative will focus on attractive styling, more performance, better interiors and more equipment.

The publication reports that the automaker has updated its vendors that the Nano based small car would require bigger engine, battery, wheels, etc. The engine displacement is estimated to be close to 1,000 cc. It’s likely to be a three-cylinder unit.

Tata also has a 800 cc turbocharged diesel engine in its shelf but given the market conditions and NVH limitations, the oil burner is not likely to make it onboard the new hatchback. As of now, multiple sources have confirmed that this new small car project which is codenamed Pelican, is a go.

Visually, the upcoming product will be adopting the brand’s new IMPACT design philosophy. In addition to rivaling the Renault Kwid, the product in question will also compete with the Datsun redi-Go, Hyundai Eon and Maruti Alto.

The Tata Nano based small car is expected to carry an attracting introductory price tag like the Tiago did.

This article has first appeared in Rushlane.com