Recently, a new test mule of the Tata Punch micro SUV was caught on camera during its test rounds in the country. The model is likely to be the new petrol turbo or CNG version of the vehicle. The prototype was heavily camouflaged, but its thick body cladding, taillamps and tyres are clearly visible. Speculations are on rife that the home-grown automaker might bring in its more powerful, turbocharged petrol version based on the higher trims – i.e. Accomplished and Creative.
The model will feature a 1.2L, 3-cylinder turbocharged gasoline unit under the hood. The motor pushes out a peak power of 108bhp and 140Nm of torque. It’s slightly detuned version of the Nexon’s turbo petrol engine that’s good enough for 120bhp and 170Nm. The micro SUV will get this turbo gasoline unit with a 5-speed manual gearbox. With this update, the Tata Punch turbo petrol will become the most powerful car in its segment.
Its arch rivals – Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite come with the 100bhp, 1.0L turbo petrol engine and a 5-speed CVT gearabox. Hyundai’s upcoming Exter micro SUV will be offered with the Grand i10 Nios’ 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine producing power worth 83bhp and 114Nm of torque. Tata has also planned a CNG version of the Punch that will go on sale in coming weeks. It will use the 1.2L Revotron petrol engine with a factory-fitted CNG kit. Its fuel efficiency will be around 30km/kg.
While there is no official word on its official launch, the Tata Punch turbo petrol is reported to hit showrooms in the second half of 2023. The carmaker recently commenced pre-bookings for the Tata Altroz CNG that will be offered in 6 variants. Interestingly, the half of variants (i.e. 3) will have an electric sunroof with voice assist on offer. The hatchback’s CNG version is expected to be around Rs 90,000 more expensive than its regular petrol counterpart.
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