Tata Motors is all set to enter in the CNG powered passenger vehicle segment, which is dominated by Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai. The company will launch the CNG versions of the Tiago hatchback and the Tigor sedan in January, 2022. In fact, Tata dealers have already started accepting pre-orders for the new variants; however, official announcement is yet to be made.
Tata Motors is also readying the CNG version of the Punch subcompact SUV. The small SUV is currently available in a single 1.2L petrol engine producing 85bhp and 113Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. The Tata Punch CNG testing has also been commenced, and this model is likely to arrive some time in 2022.
The Tata Punch CNG will be powered by the same 1.2L 3-cylinder Revotron engine; however, it will receive a marginal drop in power and torque. The small SUV CNG powertrain should offer a power around 70-75bhp and torque close to 100Nm. It will only be offered in a manual version. The Punch CNG should offer a mileage close to 30km/kg.
The Punch CNG is not likely to see any major design and interior changes. The company would add some CNG badges on the fender and at the rear. The CNG powered Punch will rival the likes of the Hyundai Santro, Maruti WagonR and the upcoming Swift CNG.
The CNG version is expected to be based on the lower and mid-level variants of the Punch. The base variant comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, brake sway control, tilt adjustable steering, central locking, front power windows and 15-inch steel wheels. The mid-variant has audio system with 4-inch display & 4 speakers, multi-functional steering wheel, remote key lock/unlock, powered ORVMs, power windows, follow me home headlamps, USB charging socket, etc.
