Tata Motors new range of cars and SUVs has been creating much buzz in the industry. Whether it's the Tata Altroz, Tata Tiago, Tata Nexon, Tata Harrier, or the flagship Tata Safari, these models are attracting people of all ages for their design, features, safety, and performance. Tata's 'New Forever' line of cars has expanded with the arrival of Tata punch. Tata Punch is a few days away from its launch. However, official bookings for the newer car have already begun. Tata plans to sell the Punch for around Rs 5.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Here is the Review.
Exterior
With its butch styling, the Tata Punch micro-SUV stands out among the competition. Looking closer, you'll see design similarities to the Tata Harrier and Tata Nexon, which isn't a bad thing because these two SUVs are pretty stylish. There are many minor details like curves and creases that elevate the Punch to the next level.
An elegant grille covers the front of the car and features a badge in the centre. The 'Humanity Line,' a design feature found on many Tata cars, is also present in this model. Like the Harrier, Punch has a split headlamp with LED DRLs on top and projector headlamps on the bumper below. Unlike the Harrier's headlamp cluster, the fog lamps are stacked further down.
The Tata Punch has projector headlamps. On the sides, there is a black cladding. The Punch's sleek appearance is enhanced by its set of 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The car's A, B, and C pillars are blacked out to provide the car with a floating-roof appearance. The dual-tone black and white roof options are available. The Punch's rear door handles are placed in the C pillars, just like the Altroz.
Until now, we've only seen such tail lamp clusters on Tata cars. It has LED tail lamps that shoot in the direction of the sides. The Punch moniker and the automaker's badge look perfect on the contoured tailgate.
Interior and features
It offers smooth entry and exit due to doors' 90-degree opening angle. The Tata Punch features comfortable front and rear seats with enough cushioning. In terms of back support, it's more than enough. On the other hand, the thigh support could have been stronger—the driver seat is adjustable to your preference. The house's base is completely flat. Three men can sit comfortably in the backseat. Tata Motors has used every inch of the Punch's cabin wisely.
The Tata Punch's cabin is clean and tidy. The dash and door trimmings provide a plush look due to the dual-tone treatment. The layered dash is also really attractive. Harman will supply the infotainment system on the Punch with a 7-inch touchscreen.
You can connect your smartphone to your car via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Despite its easy and basic user interface, it lacks responsiveness. The instrument cluster features a 7-inch color TFT display and an analog speedometer that's semi-digital. Also, it's pretty simple to read.
The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever enhance the overall driving comfort. It's frustrating that the steering wheel can only adjust for height, not reach. The Punch's audio system, on the other hand, features four speakers and two tweeters. The Tata Punch's interior is jam-packed with amenities.
The Tata Punch comes equipped with iRA connected car technology, including navigation, intrusion alert, weather updates, remote immobilization, geo-fencing, time fencing, valet mode, panic notification, find my car, What3Words, and natural voice commands. It is, however, offered exclusively as an option on the top-spec trim.
Engine options
A brand-new 1.2-liter Revotron petrol engine powers the Tata Punch. According to the manufacturer, the new Dyna-Pro engine technology will improve overall performance. It produces a maximum of 86PS (at 6,000 rpm) and 113 Nm of torque. Either a 5-speed manual transmission (MT) or a 5-speed automatic manual transmission (AMT) can use with the engine. On the Punch, you may choose between City and Eco driving modes. For the first time, AMT models can use Traction-Pro mode as well.
The Tata Punch petrol AMT engine runs smoothly and without any problems. When it comes to power delivery, we're talking straight lines here. Even at low speeds, it feels more responsive than the Tata Altroz. It's true that the new Dyna-Pro technology aids in this regard. It performs well, even at a medium range. However, when pushed hard, it does not respond as quickly as, for example, the K12 naturally aspirated petrol engine of Maruti Suzuki, and reaching triple-digit speeds takes some time. Â This engine is optimal for city driving.
Additionally, it is not very silent. The fact that it has only three cylinders, you can hear the engine grunt when you push the throttle hard.
The Tata Punch's AMT is noticeably better-engineered. It greatly improves the overall driving experience, which you need while stuck in bumper-to-bumper city traffic. The shifts were noticeable, but this is normal for AMTs. In addition, in AMTs, downshifting is time-consuming. As a result, maneuvers such as overtaking must do with extra caution. It is also true with the Punch petrol AMT. Punch's manual transmission was another plus. It's smooth, and it makes driving more enjoyable. Additionally, the clutch felt light.
Final verdict
The Punch has a muscular SUV-like appearance, excellent ground clearance, and a fun-to-drive hatchback-like feel. It's even more enticing due to the cabin's impressive design and innovative customization choices. With amenities like an electric folding wing mirror, cruise control, auto headlamps and wipers, and connected car tech, it's a sensible combination.
There isn't an option for a diesel engine. While the 1.2L engine is enough for commuting, it lacks the power to be useful when fully loaded on the highway or in heavy traffic. The claimed 0-100kmph time of 16.5 seconds isn't exactly exciting. If you're searching for a more tough and versatile hatchback, the Punch might be your best bet. The market's success will be determined by price and engine options.
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