Tata Punch

Tata Punch is made on ALFA-ARC platform which is almost similar to Altroz. If we talk about engine it's come with 1.2 litre, 3 cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. All other models of Tata like Altroz, Tiago and Tigor features the same. In terms of performance it produces 86 hp of power and 113Nm of torque, which is complimented with the five-speed manual transmission and automatic as well. 

This micro SUV is not made for performance but quite good enough for daily commuting. Apart from that Punch's engine also satisfy BS6 Phase 2 norms. It also comes with an idle start-stop system that helps in improving fuel efficiency. 

Inside the car, driver gets a smooth gear shifting experience in both manual and automatic transmission. The AMT's manual mode allows drivers to manually shift gears using the gear lever, though it still intervenes automatically to prevent revs from getting too high or too low.

In the drive test many people has felt that the engine lacks finishing where they are not getting vibration-free performance. One of the main reason is its three cylinder which vibrates and produces humming sound or grainy sound. While raising the speed this SUV feels bit Shakey and it requires frequent gear changes in traffic. So the overall performance of the vehicle not so smooth while pushing engine to its limits. 

Acceleration Test

In the acceleration test, it usually takes 16 to 17 seconds to go from zero to 100 kmph of speed in city mode. Well it can be considered little slow compared to other rivals in this segment. There is also an Eco mode which makes the vehicle throttle response slow but it elevates the fuel efficiency. 

Fuel Efficiency: Claim vs. Reality

Now let's talk about the fuel efficiency of the car for both claimed and real life mileage. Tata claims the ARAI mileage of Punch is 18.97 kmpl, however the real life mileage depends upon the driving conditions. After testing, the fuel efficiency evaluation in city driving is 14 kmpl and on highways it's 17 kmpl. If we compare it some other competitors the numbers are slightly on the lower side, but only by a small margin. 

Its dimensions span 3,840 mm in length, 1,822 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height.

Front Profile Features

The front profile of Tata Punch comes with a split headlamp setup, complemented with LED DRLs on upper section and projector headlamps on lower section. Front grille is made in a honeycomb pattern and features a chrome strip around Tata logo present at the center. On the lower side, the bumper of punch has a decent air dam, fog lamps and silver skid plate. Upon all these on the front fascia, the bonnet of the car presented with beautiful creases and contours which gives this micro SUV a muscular look. 

Side Profile Features

The major key highlight of this micro SUV is 187 mm of ground clearance which is noticeable in the side profile look. Wheel arches and doors are covered with black cladding at the bottom and roof rails at the top makes this car more practical. The 16 inches dual tone alloy wheels enhances the overall look of side profile and catches attention. Dual tone Outside rear view mirrors with integrated turn indicators merge perfectly with the blacked out B-pillars, chrome handle and body colors. Distinct color of the of the roof top adds the style while giving floating roof effect. 

Rear Profile Features

At the rear view you get LED tail lamps which is decorated with a tri-arrow motif. On the top, the roof mounted spoiler comes with an LED stop lamp and going down we have rear wiper and washer. Over the roof we get shark fin antenna. Tail gate is engraved with "Punch" lettering in bold accompanied by the Tata logo in chrome. The back bumper comes with reflectors and also features a silver skid plate. Also we have some great additions at the back like rear parking camera and sensors that helps an lot while parking. 

Color Options and Customization

Tata Punch is available in several vibrant colors across its variants. Here are the color options for each variant:

Build and Strength

The Agile Light Flexible Advanced (ALFA) Architecture, which is renowned for its sturdy and adaptable design, serves as the foundation for the Tata Punch. This platform gives the Punch a solid base, guaranteeing superior construction quality and security. The ALFA Architecture is made to produce a variety of body shapes with exceptional construction quality. The Punch is a dependable and durable car with unparalleled safety ratings. Because of the platform's adaptability, Punch can be configured in a variety of ways to satisfy changing consumer demands.

The Tata Punch's rigidity and strength come from the use of high-strength steel and a strengthened body structure. The Punch can endure impacts and offer a safe driving experience because to its structure. The vehicle's overall durability and safety are improved by the use of cutting-edge materials in the body and platform.

In Tata Punch, the front dashboard looks very clean and spacious. The entire cabin designed in such a way that gives elegant look along with loads of features. The dashboard comes in dual tone color of grey and black. On top of that you get a semi-leatherette upholstery which gives premium feel after combined with contrast stitching. Below the steering wheel side you get a leatherette door armrests and also a soft flow ambient lighting. 

Infotainment and Connectivity 

Now let's talk about the interior features and hardware that you get. This micro SUV features a 10.25 inches of touchscreen infotainment system in higher end variants like Accomplished Plus and Creative Plus. At the center of driver's display you get a 4 inches of digital instrument cluster. 

For multimedia and entertainment purposes you get seven Bose speakers and screen integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And to enjoy the outer atmosphere you get an electric sunroof but only in Adventure Plus (sunroof variant), Accomplished Plus (sunroof variant) and Creative Plus variants. 

Spacious

The Punch's cabin doesn't just look good; it also offers ample space and an open feel, thanks to its expansive windows and the sunroof. Passengers will find generous headroom, legroom, and shoulder room, comfortably accommodating five adults. With the 60:40 split rear seats folded down, the Punch's boot space expands from 366 to a capacious 710 litres, accommodating your luggage with ease.

Practical Versatility

There are 25 plus storage spaces and utility features include a glove box with a cooling function, a center console with cup holders and armrests, door pockets with bottle holders, seatback pockets, and a parcel tray. Convenience is elevated with a push-button start/stop, keyless entry, automatic climate control, cruise control, rear AC vents, power windows, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, height-adjustable driver seat, rear parking camera and sensors.

The 2024 model of the Tata Punch received a 5-star rating for adult occupant protection and a 4-star rating for child occupant protection. The Punch scored 16.45 out of 17 for adult protection and 40.89 out of 49 for child safety.

This SUV is reliable for both safety and comfort. Anchored on the robust ALFA-ARC platform, engineered to meet stringent global crash test standards, the Punch takes the well-being of its occupants seriously. Moreover, it boasts an impressive array of 26 safety features that come standard across all variants.

These safety features encompass not only passive measures but also active systems designed to prevent accidents and elevate the driving experience. The Punch proudly wears the crown of six airbags, a vital shield for occupants in the event of a collision. Complementing this are crucial aids like ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), hill assist control (HAC), vehicle stability management (VSM), and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Proactive Safety Measures

The active safety features don't stop there. The ESC steps in to maintain car stability during oversteer or understeer situations, while the HAC prevents rollback on slopes, instilling confidence on challenging terrains. VSM plays a crucial role in managing steering and braking forces during skidding scenarios, enhancing control.

Meanwhile, TPMS serves as a vigilant guardian, promptly alerting the driver to low tire pressure. Automatic headlamps, intelligently adjusting to ambient light conditions, and the headlamp escort function, which keeps the headlamps on briefly after turning off the car, contribute to safer night driving.

Connected Safety and Convenience

Beyond these safety fortifications, the Tata Punch incorporates Hyundai's Blue Link connected car technology, delivering remote access, vehicle health reports, emergency assistance, and geo-fencing capabilities. This further amplifies the safety net.

Comfort

Some of the most comforting features of this car are like Xpress cool button which calculates the cabin temperature and cool accordingly, Automatic climate control, and High Seating with Height Adjustable Driver Seat. 

The Tata Punch has garnered praise for its impressive ride and handling characteristics, making it a standout in the sub-compact SUV segment. Here’s a detailed look at what makes the Punch’s ride and handling noteworthy:

Ride Quality

The Punch features a well-tuned suspension system that strikes a balance between comfort and stability. The front suspension consists of independent, lower wishbone, McPherson strut with coil spring and anti-roll bar, while the rear uses a semi-independent twist beam with coil spring and shock absorber.

The suspension setup is designed to handle rough and uneven road surfaces with ease. It absorbs bumps and potholes effectively, providing a smooth ride even on less-than-ideal roads.

At higher speeds, the Punch remains stable and composed. The suspension’s underlying toughness ensures that the vehicle does not feel unsettled, even when driving over road imperfections.

Handling

The Punch is equipped with an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and tight spaces. It also provides good feedback, enhancing the driving experience.

Thanks to its taut structure and light kerb weight, the Punch handles corners with confidence. The vehicle’s body roll is well-controlled, and it feels planted even during spirited driving.

The braking system of the Punch is both natural and progressive. It features front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, which provide ample stopping power and inspire confidence in various driving conditions.

Overall Driving Experience

The Punch drives like a more mature and expensive car. Its ride quality and handling characteristics are comparable to larger and more premium vehicles.

The AMT variant of the Punch comes with a Traction Pro feature, which enhances its capability on rough terrains. This feature, combined with its raised ride height, makes the Punch more versatile than typical hatchbacks.

The Tata Punch’s ride and handling make it a compelling choice for those looking for a small SUV that can handle the rigors of daily driving while providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride.