Tata Punch Micro SUV Revealed

Tata Motors is getting ready for the launch of its new Sub compact crossover SUV, now named the PUNCH. Teaser images and videos have been released by the manufacturer, revealing just the front fascia. However, here are the complete details on the new micro crossover that we have figured out through spy images and videos.

Here are the details on the new Altroz turbo petrol:

The first crossover SUV based on the ALFA arc platform of the Altroz, with Harrier inspired styling.

Will be available with a 1.2L Revotron 3 cyl petrol engine similar to the Tata Tiago and Altroz.

Will also include Engine auto Start/Stop system on specific variants.

Top spec variant will offer Projector headlamps, TFT instrument cluster, Cruise control, touchscreen system among other features.

DESIGN The Tata Punch is essentially the production spec version of the HBX concept showcased at the 2020 Delhi Auto expo. Except for the more traditional looking front bumper which houses the fog lamps, the overall design remains almost identical. The projector headlamps are located lower in the bumper with the LED strips on top, quite similar to the Harrier. The wheel arches are muscular while also featuring black cladding all around. Unlike the Nexon and Harrier, the cabin is more upright, lending a more tall-boy crossover look. Being based on the Altroz platform, the rear door handles are integrated into the C pillar design along with the 90 degree opening doors, similar to the Altroz.

The rear design is more traditional, with a simple chiseled tailgate and raked rear glass. The rear bumper houses the Registration plate, being flanked by big reflectors. Unlike the off road spec tyres on the concept, the Punch will get 16” dual tone alloys on the top spec variants. All except the base model is expected to get roof rails also. Similar to the Altroz, only the higher variants will get rear wiper with washer and defogger.

DIMENSIONS The Tata Punch will slot below the Altroz in both, dimensions and positioning. The HBX concept was 3840mm in length, 1822mm in width and 1635mm in height. While the width and height of the production version may differ slightly, the Punch will be longer than the Tiago while being taller than the Nexon. It is also expected to be similar in width to the NEXON.

INTERIOR The overall design and layout of the interior will be almost identical to the HBX concept. Similar to the Altroz, the Punch will offer a dual tone theme, with a centrally mounted freestanding 7” Touchscreen on top. The lower variants will also get the Harman monochrome audio system carried over from the lower variants of the Nexon and Altroz. On the top most Variant, the Punch will also offer the semi digital TFT instrument cluster setup similar to the Altroz XZ+.

Other features will include Cruise control, Auto headlamps and wipers, Smart key access with push button start, Engine auto start/Stop system, Auto climate control, Power windows and Auto folding ORVMs. The 7” touchscreen will offer 6 Harman speakers, standard Android auto / Apple carplay connectivity, What3words based navigation, IRA connected car features and Voice command controls for Media, FM, Auto AC and Calls.

While a front Armrest will not be offered, the rear seats will get a center armrest along with adjustable headrests only on the higher variants.

PRACTICALITY  Being almost as wide as the Nexon, the Punch will have a flatter rear bench, making it more comfortable for 3 abreast seating. Similar to the Altroz, the Punch will have a plethora of storage options including bottle and umbrella holders on the doors, a large cooled glovebox and cubbyholes in the center Console. The Boot space is expected to be at around 300L, which is better than the Maruti Suzuki Ignis and the Mahindra KUV100.

POWERTRAIN  The Tata Punch will continue with the same 1.2L 3cyl Revotron petrol engine from the Altroz. This engine produces 86PS of max Power and 113NM of peak torque with the option of a 5 speed manual gearbox or an AMT. The Tata Punch is also likely to offer an Economy drive mode for better efficiency. The higher variants will also offer Auto Engine Start/Stop feature.

It is likely that the iTurbo petrol or the Revotorq Turbo diesel could also be offered on the Tata Punch.

POSITIONING Being a feature loaded sub compact crossover SUV with the mentioned dimensions and powertrain options, the Tata Punch can compete with various cars across categories. The Lower specced variants could target the Renault Kwid and Maruti Suzuki Spresso. The mid level variants could aim for the 1.2L petrol versions of the WagonR, Ignis and the Mahindra KUV100. The most feature loaded top variant could rival the 1.0L non turbo variants of the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite; along with the 1.2L non turbo variants of the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet.

PRICING & LAUNCH 

       The Tata Punch sub compact SUV is expected to be launched in the month of October. Pricing is expected to start from Rs.4.99L for the base variant and go up to Rs.7L for the XZ variant. (All prices ex showroom) Stay tuned for further updates on the Tata Punch sub compact SUV.