Tata Scarlet to be a sub-4 metre SUV with boxy, Sierra-inspired design
Could rival the next-gen Mahindra Bolero and even the Maruti Jimny
Will support both petrol, diesel and electric powertrains
Launch expected within the next couple of years, alongside two new EVs
Tata Motors is cooking up something seriously exciting for SUV lovers. Say hello to ‘Scarlet’ – an all-new sub-compact SUV that’s currently under development. Codenamed internally as Scarlet, this SUV is designed to bring a fresh rugged vibe to the sub-4 metre segment. Think boxy, bold, and lifestyle-focused – a nice break from the usual curvy crossover designs we often see.
Sierra-Inspired, Defender-Like Design?
The Tata Scarlet is expected to follow a boxy design language, similar to the iconic Tata Sierra concept we’ve seen in recent years. That means we can expect strong, upright lines, flat panels, a tall stance and possibly even flared wheel arches. Tata seems to be targeting buyers who want their small SUV to look tough – not just cute. And here’s the twist: the upcoming Mahindra Bolero is also going for a similar square-edged look inspired by the Land Rover Defender.
So what we’re looking at here is a potential face-off between Tata Scarlet and the reinvented Bolero – both offering rugged styling, both under 4 metres in length, and both aiming to attract adventure-loving urban buyers.
Built for Flexibility: Petrol, Diesel & Electric Too?
Scarlet won’t be just about the looks though. It’s going to be underpinned by a brand-new monocoque platform that can handle both internal combustion engines (ICE) and full-electric setups. That means it’s built with the future in mind.
What engines will it get? While Tata hasn’t confirmed the final choices yet, some strong possibilities include:
Nexon’s 1.2L turbo-petrol (120hp)
Curvv’s upcoming 1.2L direct injection turbo-petrol (125hp)
A new 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine
And while a diesel option might also be considered, it’s unlikely Scarlet will get an AWD (all-wheel-drive) version for its ICE models. The EV variant, however, could get dual motors and AWD – which could be seriously cool for off-road enthusiasts.
Now here’s the interesting bit. The pricing for the Scarlet is expected to sit somewhere between the Tata Nexon and the Nexon EV. That’s roughly in the ₹8 lakh to ₹17 lakh bracket (ex-showroom). Tata will need to be careful here – they won’t want Scarlet to eat into the sales of their own Nexon range.
Instead, the company seems to be positioning it as a “lifestyle SUV” – something for buyers who want a rugged-looking, no-nonsense alternative to urban crossovers. Think of someone who likes the Jimny’s appeal but wants a slightly more practical and modern Tata take on it.
More Than Just One SUV: Tata’s EV Army Is Coming
Scarlet is part of a much larger plan. Tata Motors wants to bring at least seven new nameplates by 2030, and this SUV is one of them. Alongside Scarlet, the brand is also developing two more electric sub-4 metre vehicles – codenamed Kuno and Terra.
These models will help Tata cover everything from entry-level to premium EV offerings in the coming years. With the EV space heating up in India, Tata is clearly not slowing down.
Verdict: Scarlet Could Be a Game-Changer
Tata Scarlet is shaping up to be more than just another SUV in a crowded market. With a bold new design direction, flexible engine options, and the ability to go electric, it could become a solid alternative for buyers who find the current crop of compact SUVs too soft or city-focused.
Rugged looks, Sierra vibes, practical platform – all packaged into a sub-4 metre footprint? Sounds like Scarlet might just stir up the segment when it lands.
Stay tuned – we’ll bring you more updates as soon as Tata starts dropping official teasers or camouflaged test mule sightings!
