Tata Motors were supposed to launch the Altroz Racer in March 2023, or at least in the first half of 2023, but since that never happened and many thought it might have got cancelled, it was spied testing in the Ooty, Tamil Nadu with MH14 number plate.
Tata Altroz Racer Spotted: What you need to know!
If you remember, Tata had unveiled the Altroz Racer variant at the Auto Expo in January earlier this year. At that time, there was much anticipation that the hot hatch would make its debut in the weeks following the showcase. However, with no further official updates, it seemed like the project might have been put on hold, or cancelled given their hands were full of other SUVs and upcoming SUVs testing. Nonetheless, recent sightings of a new test mule have reignited speculations about the possible launch of the Altroz Racer.
The most recent spotting of an Altroz test mule occurred in Ooty, sporting a “MH14” Maharashtra license plate. The vehicle was fully wrapped in camouflage, concealing any external branding or markings that might directly indicate it as the Altroz Racer. However, a handwritten ‘Racer’ label on the engine is a noteworthy detail that doesn’t appear to be a mere coincidence. Moreover, the vehicle’s interior revealed the presence of a 6-speed gearbox. Taken together, this accumulating evidence strongly suggests that the test mule could indeed be the long-awaited Altroz Racer.
Accompanying the Racer was the two additional Altroz test mules units. One of them featured a standard grey color, while the other sported an all-black exterior. Both of these vehicles were also equipped with Maharashtra license plates. The grey Altroz appeared to be quite ordinary, without any discernible modifications. However, the all-black Altroz raised some curiosity as it had cables running from the hood and through the slot intended for the rear-view mirror. The exact purpose of these modifications remains uncertain, as Tata has not provided any official clarification.
While Tata Motors has not officially confirmed any details, there is speculation that the Altroz Racer might make its debut by the end of this year or in early 2024. This hot sporty hatchback is poised to compete directly with the Hyundai i20 N Line. Given the anticipated addition of several new features, it is likely that the Altroz Racer will be priced at a premium compared to the existing models. Currently, the Altroz is available in a price range spanning from Rs 6.60 Lakh to Rs 10.74 Lakh, with the turbo petrol variants starting at Rs 9.10 Lakh.
Considering the significant time gap since its initial unveiling, it’s plausible that the Altroz Racer may receive some noteworthy updates when it finally hits the market. When showcased at the Auto Expo in 2023, the Altroz Racer was equipped with a 1.2 L 3 Cylinder Turbo Petrol engine, which produces an impressive 118.35 BHP and 170 NM of torque. However, the standard Altroz comes with a 1.2 L 4 Cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 108.49 BHP and 140 NM. The Racer variant, with its extra 10 HP and 30 NM of torque, promises to have a significant impact on the overall driving experience. With this power boost, it’s expected to achieve a 0 to 100 KMPL acceleration in under 10 seconds, enhancing its overall performance and drive dynamics.
The Altroz Racer will come with features such as ventilated seats, 10.25-inch infotainment system, 7-inch digital instrument cluster that looks similar to the pre-facelift version of Harrier/Safari, although its possible Tata could update it to the 10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster in the new facelift of Nexon/Harrier/Safari which will be configurable for maps. Other features include wireless charging pad, voice-activated electric sunroof, 6 Airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, and so much more.
