Back in 2024, reports suggested that Tata Motors was exploring the development of a rugged 4×4 SUV to compete with the likes of the Mahindra Thar. While initial details were speculative and lacked official confirmation, the picture is now much clearer. Reliable sources have now confirmed that Tata Motors is actively working on the project — and it’s closer to reality than ever before.
We’re talking about Tata’s upcoming Rs 15 lakh SUV, internally codenamed ‘Scarlet’.
🚙 Tata Scarlet – What’s New?
Designed to take on off-road-ready rivals like the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Jimny, Tata’s new SUV will be a sub-4-metre model — similar in length to the Tata Nexon. However, its boxy and upright design will offer a more spacious cabin and a tougher, more utilitarian appeal.
According to Autocar India, the Scarlet will not only be visually distinct from the Nexon but will also be mechanically versatile, offering both internal combustion (ICE) and electric (EV) variants.
⚙️ Platform & Powertrain Options
- The ICE version is expected to be based on the Curvv’s ATLAS platform, while the EV variant will ride on Tata’s dedicated Acti.ev platform.
- ICE models will be available in 2WD, whereas the EV variant could get an optional AWD configuration, much like the upcoming Harrier.ev.
Engine Options (Expected for ICE):
- 1.2-litre turbo-petrol (from the Nexon)
- 1.2-litre TGDi (seen in the Curvv)
- All-new 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
❌ No diesel engine is expected to be offered.
EV Variant:
- Likely to share its battery pack and motor setup with the Curvv.ev, offering a competitive electric driving range and performance.
💸 Pricing Strategy & Segment Positioning
Positioned in the sub-4 metre SUV segment, the new Tata SUV will aim to replicate the pricing success of models like the Nexon and Punch, both known for their value-driven appeal.
- Expected Price Range: Slightly higher than the Nexon, but more affordable than the upcoming Curvv
- This places it strategically around the Rs 15 lakh mark — a sweet spot in the growing lifestyle SUV segment.
🛠️ Features & Competition
The new SUV is expected to offer more premium features compared to the Nexon, with an emphasis on ruggedness and versatility. If Tata indeed offers AWD capability in the EV version, it would set a new benchmark in the segment and directly challenge the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Jimny.
📅 Launch Timeline
While Tata Motors has not announced an official launch date yet, the project has moved beyond the conceptual stage. With development underway, we can expect the official unveiling to happen before the end of the decade — possibly as early as 2026–27.
🔍 Final Thoughts
Tata Motors’ new SUV project, codenamed Scarlet, signals the brand’s intent to enter the lifestyle off-roader space with a modern, feature-packed, and powertrain-diverse offering. With both ICE and EV versions planned, it’s shaping up to be a strong contender in a segment currently dominated by the Mahindra Thar.
