Tata is set to start fresh innings in the premium segment with the launch of the all-new Hexa in January 2017.

Styling is much the same as the concept shown at the Geneva motor show 2015.

Clamshell bonnet, upright grille and stretched-back headlamps look nice. Aggressive bumpers, large wheel arches and body cladding add character.

Hexa’s size gives it immense presence but wheels look shrunken-in from certain angles.

LED elements for the brake lights, boomerang-shaped reflectors on the bumper, dual exhausts and a large scuff plate also do much for the Hexa’s strong-shouldered look.

The dashboard is relatively simple and looks solid. Central touchscreen, same as on the Zest, offers better contrast though reflections are still a problem.

The seats are well shaped, richly finished and very supportive, and are a highlight of the crossover.

Middle-row captain seats just as good as the front. Bench-seat option offers adequate space for seating three abreast.

Third row offers a nice seating position and adequate room though it’s not the best place for tall people.

With all seats up, the Hexa’s luggage area can only be used for a few soft bags though the third row back rest can be folded to increase capacity.

2.2-litre Varicor400 is the same engine as on the Safari Storme. The unit is good for 156hp and 400Nm.

Gearbox options include a six-speed manual with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive or a six-speed automatic that only powers the rear wheels.

The 5.0-inch touchscreen feels small and isn’t the most responsive unit around. JBL speakers are fine tuned to deliver power and clarity.

Four-wheel drive models get a choice of four drive modes - Comfort, Dynamic, Rough and Auto.

The Hexa is the first Tata car to use variable rate dampers and is easily the best riding car in the segment.

LED daytime running lamps and fog lamps sit within large air-vents on the front bumper.