Even as discussions on whether Tata Motors has pushed back the launch of the Kite 5 compact sedan to 2017 regularly engage followers on automotive forums, the carmaker continues to put the model through rigorous testing on Indian roads.

The Kite 5 compact sedan has already made several appearances on the web through leaked images and spy shots, and now a series of images of the Kite 5 on test has been posted by Automotive India. Although Tata is still mum on the launch of the Kite 5 in India, the repeated sighting of the Tiago-based sedan, which could be named Canvas, Dribble or Ingrid, hints that its arrival is around the corner. It is also being said that the launch of the Kite 5 could be delayed in India as Tata is revisiting its strategy, to come up with a plan similar to that for the Tiago.

Coming back to the spy shots, the Kite 5 is seen under heavy camouflage. However, the images give a clear picture of the overall body proportion and the road presence of the model.

The Kite 5 will come packed with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol and 1.05-litre three-cylinder diesel motors. While the 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine will churn out 83.8bhp of power at 6,000rpm and 114Nm of torque at 3,500rpm, the all-new 1.05-litre, three-cylinder turbo-charged diesel engine will develop 69bhp of power and 140Nm of torque. Both engines will be available with multi-drive modes — Eco and City.

In terms of dimension, the compact sedan measures 3,995mm in length, 1,647mm in width and 1,535mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,450mm. To be pitted against Maruti Swift Dzire, Honda Amaze, Volkswagen Ameo and Ford Figo Aspire, the Tiago-based compact sedan is expected to be priced competitively in the market.