Tata's new compact hatch ‘Zica’

Tata hasn’t stopped at making the Bolt and the Zest. It's keen on filling all the gaps left in its portfolio. The newest entrant in the Tata stable has been christened 'Zica'. It will slot in between the Nano and the Bolt, and will compete with the likes of the Hyundai Eon, Maruti Alto K10 and the new Renault Kwid. The Tata Kite hatchback's name was revealed in a new teaser featuring the carmaker's new brand ambassador Lionel Messi. Tata revealed that the name is a derivation of 'ZI'ppy 'CA'r, and is an indication of the upcoming hatcback's performance. Tata Zica, which will replace the ageing Indica eV2 in India, will sport a new signature front grille with the 'Humanity Line' and smoked head-lamps.



The action in this segment has heated up with the addition of the Kwid, and Tata does not want to miss out. The company has been tight-lipped on details, but we hear the Zica will come in petrol and diesel versions. Engines will be carried over from the Bolt, the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and the 1.3-litre turbo-diesel both tuned for higher efficiency. The design will be carried forward from the Bolt, too, which can’t be a bad thing, and it being a Tata, expect a generous amount of space in the cabin.



The Tata Zica is likely to get a new suspension system as well, with the fully-independent rear suspension of the Indica set be replaced by a more conventional non-independent, twist beam axle. The carmaker will slot the Tata Zica between the Nano and the Bolt, and will take on cars like the Hyundai Grand i10 and Maruti Suzuki Celerio with the new hatchback. Costs haven’t been revealed, but it is expected to be within a budget range.