TATA MOTORS

TATA Punch: the ultra-compact, small and robust crossover for the Indian market

The Dacia Spring, Fiat Panda City Cross, Mahindra KUV100 NXT and Suzuki Ignis are just some of the small urban SUVs that are available in different markets across the globe.

However, some of these small crossovers are interesting, like one that was recently introduced to the Indian market. It is the TATA Punch, a small and robust model designed exclusively for India and starting at a price equivalent to 38,000 reais (Brazilian currency) at the current exchange rate.

This ultra-compact crossover was designed by several studios located in India, the UK and Italy. At 3.83 meters long, the TATA Punch is smaller than a Citroën C3 and promises interesting off-road capabilities.

It is clear that it is not a true off-roader like the Land Rover Defender and the Jeep Wrangler, but the figures offered by the brand are quite respectable for the segment.

The TATA Punch has a ground clearance of 19 centimeters, an approach angle of 20.3 degrees and a departure angle of 37.6 (the same as a Jeep Wrangler). In addition, the brand announces that it can also cross water courses up to 37 centimeters deep.

Regarding the cabin, the small Indian SUV has a capacity for five people and a trunk of 366 liters, slightly larger than that of a Suzuki Ignis. The TATA Punch is available in three different trim levels, with prices starting from the equivalent of 38,000 reais and going up to almost double that amount.

The equipment of the more generous versions is quite complete and includes LED headlights, automatic climate control, cruise control, rear view camera, 7.0-inch digital instrument panel and an infotainment system with a 7.0-inch screen, in addition to Apple compatibility. CarPlay and Android Auto.

As for the mechanical part, it is offered with only one engine in the line, a naturally aspirated 3-cylinder gasoline block, with 86 hp and 113 Nm of torque, which can be mated to a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission.

According to TATA, Punch achieved a five-star rating in the Global NCAP shock tests, although the standards differ from the more stringent Euro NCAP, especially since the last protocol update.

This is one of the reasons why the Punch will not be sold in markets such as the large European market, since adapting a vehicle of this type to European standards would cause costs to skyrocket, thus eliminating the main attraction of this product: its price. As mentioned before, in India, the TATA Punch starts at 38,000 reais (Brazilian currency) and can reach 66,000 reais (Brazilian currency) in the most equipped finish. This might be a good alternative here.

Autonews