All-New Tata Scarlet Compact SUV Development Begins – Key Info By Team GaadiWaadi -July 7, 2025 Representational Tata Scarlet, to be introduced in both ICE and EV versions, will be the brand’s second sub 4-m SUV in the Indian market after the Nexon Tata Motors made it official earlier this year that it will launch 7 all-new SUV models in the Indian market by 2030. Now, it has been learnt that among these 7 new nameplates, there will be one compact SUV which has been internally codenamed as Scarlet. The upcoming Tata sub 4-m SUV will have boxy design which is inspired by the upcoming Sierra SUV. The company already has the Nexon SUV which measures under 4 metres in length, so with the arrival of the Scarlet, it will have two models in the segment. As Tata Scarlet is still in the early stages of development, we have limited details regarding the SUV. However, it is likely to sit on a monocoque chassis which will spawn both ICE and EV versions. The ICE model could be offered with a host of engine options including the Nexon-sourced 1.2L turbocharged petrol engine which develops 118 bhp. Tata could also use the Curvv’s 1.2L direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine which makes top power of 123 bhp. It is also being believed that Tata Scarlet could be equipped with the all-new naturally-aspirated 1.5L petrol engine which is a derivative of the 1.5L turbo petrol engine, showcased at the Auto Expo 2023. It is not known yet whether the Scarlet SUV will also be available with a diesel engine or not. For reference, Tata Nexon is offered with a diesel engine. Also Read: Tata Harrier EV Garners Over 10,000 Bookings In A Single Day Representational Tata Scarlet EV could be introduced with Harrier’s dual-motor setup, with one electric motor at each axle. It could also be packed with the QWD (AWD) system as seen on the Harrier EV. However, it is highly unlikely that Tata Motors will roll out the AWD system with the ICE version due to rising costs and packaging constraints. Tata Scarlet price will be in the similar range as the Nexon SUV. Dubbed as the ‘mini’ Sierra, the new Tata compact SUV price is likely to start at Rs 8 lakh and go as high as Rs 15 lakh for the range-topping model. The Scarlet EV could start around Rs 13 lakh for the base trim while the top variant could be priced at Rs 17 lakh. All the prices mentioned here are ex-showroom. Also Read: Tata Harrier EV Production Begins, First Unit Rolled Out Representational A few sections of the media have reported that Tata Scarlet compact SUV will square off against Maruti Jimny and Mahindra Thar as it is based on the monocoque chassis. However, it seems quite impossible to match the off-roading capabilities of the Thar and Jimny and instead the Scarlet will be presented as a lifestyle SUV. Recently, Kia introduced its second SUV in the sub 4-m segment in the form of the Syros with a boxy and upright design. It already has the Sonet in this segment.
