Reference Auto

Tata Motors has unveiled a multi-utility vehicle (MUV), the Aria, which it hopes to roll out around Diwali, to take on the likes of Toyota’s Innova and Mahindra’s Scorpio, Bolero and Xylo. According to sources, the Aria prices may start from Rs 10 lakh, which does not seem competitive enough so far its peers (Innova, Scorpio, Bolero and Xylo) are concerned.

The Aria, which was showcased at the Auto Expo 2010 in Delhi, has a 2.2-litre common rail diesel engine and offers the comfort of a multi-purpose vehicle.

The 2.2 litre Dicor engine of the Tata Aria can generate up to a maximum 140 bhp power at 4,000 rpm along with highest torque of around 320 Nm at 1,700-2,700rpm. The Tata Aria can touch 100 kmph in just 14 seconds.

The MUV is high on safety, having six airbags along with an electronic stability programme. Features such as wheel drive option, ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD (electronic brake distribution), disc brakes, traction control, cruise control, front as well as rear air bags and child safety lock also enhance safety. The Tata Aria has excellent braking and handling. The brakes are disc type along with ABS and electronic stability programme (ESP) system. The ESP technology is the first offered in any Tata vehicle.

The Tata Aria comes with leather covered steering wheels, gear shift knob and leather seats, headrest mounted LCD screen, power and tilt steering, power windows, automatic climate control AC with individual AC vent for rear seats and powerful audio system, among others.

It is also loaded with more features like rear wash and wiper, outside temperature indicator, stylish and broad alloy wheels and parking sensors.

The domestic version of the Tata Aria is believed to have two airbags and ABS with ESP. The Tata Aria will also have an optional four-wheel drive and stability control, cruise control along with standard controls. It had gone for a makeover (of the interior) to Europe but has been dubbed as a ‘four wheeler built for India by Indian engineers.’

While the Aria scores on its snazzy looks (even though it somewhat resembles a giant Indigo Manza), unique exterior, powerful and fuel efficient Dicor engine and on luxury, safety and comfort, it falls short of expectations so far as looks of the rear are concerned. Also, there is little legroom on the rear seats.

Tata Motors had initially priced the Aria around Rs 12 lakh but scaled it down owing to intense slugfest from MUVs like the Toyota Innova, which is available for Rs 9 lakh onwards (on road) and Mahindra Xylo, whose prices start from Rs 7 lakh only. Going by the looks, there may be an initial frenzy to book the Aria, but Tata Motors will have to scout for ways to see that this craze doesn’t die down soon enough despite being at a disadvantage on pricing.