Tata Hexa 2017 launches in India, pricing starts at Rs 11.99 lakhs; three variants available

Tata Motors has officially launched its new premium crossover Hexa in India. The launch was long overdue and expected since the company showcased the car at last year's Auto Expo in New Delhi. The Hexa is technically an update for Tata's previous attempt at making a large, premium car, the Aria.Tata has priced it at Rs 11.99 lakh for the base model, which goes all the way up to Rs 17.49 lakh for the top trim. It will be available in three different variants — XE, XM and XT. The base variant XE features a 2.2-litre Varicor diesel engine that produces 150bhp and 320Nm of torque and is mated with a five-speed manual gearbox. The XM and XT variants on the other hand feature a 2.2-litre 156bhp 400Nm Varicor400 diesel engine which gets a six-speed manual as well as automatic gearbox.The XM and XT variants also feature four drive modes including Auto, Comfort, Dynamic and Rough Road. The Auto mode, as the name suggests, allows the car to adapt to the road conditions while control systems kick in when needed. Comfort mode is for when you are cruising at long distances. Dynamic mode is for pure performance while the Rough Road mode is for off-road driving conditions where brake performance is improved.Inside, there is a seven-seat layout and a unique six-seat configuration. There is also automatic climate control, ConnectNext touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-speaker setup made by JBL and an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat. Dual front airbags and ABS are standard on all trims. However the XT gets six airbags, traction control and ESP. The 19-inch wheels  come with low-profile 235-section tyres.Bookings for the Hexa have been on for a few days while deliveries are expected to begin by the end of this month.