by Indian automaker Tata Motors has introduced an updated version of its smallest SUV, the Punch. The update includes exterior changes, an updated interior trim, and, most importantly, a new turbocharged powertrain. The car retains its main advantage – affordability, starting at a price of approximately $6,200 USD.
Fresh Design and Exterior
Externally, the updated Punch resembles a scaled-down copy of the larger Harrier model range. This is achieved thanks to a completely redesigned front end, which has received split LED headlights and a new “Bull Guard” bumper with massive plastic cladding and a silver protective plate.
The rear has also been updated: it now features an “Infinity Glow” LED light bar connecting the tail lights, and the bumper has a simpler design. The car also received new 16-inch alloy wheels and four new body color options.
Dimensions and Road Adaptability
The car’s overall length remained unchanged at 3827 mm. However, the ground clearance was increased to 193 mm, and the wading depth is now 400 mm. These changes are designed to improve the car’s capabilities on challenging Indian roads and during seasonal rains.
Updated Interior and Equipment
The interior, while retaining the overall architecture, has received a number of updates. The centerpiece is a 10.25-inch multimedia system paired with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel received a new two-spoke design, and the climate control panel on the center console became touch-sensitive. The fabric seats, according to the manufacturer, offer better support.
The list of available equipment includes a 360-degree camera, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and an audio system with eight speakers. The car did not receive autonomous driving systems (ADAS), but six airbags are standard for all trim levels. The manufacturer emphasizes the high crash test results of this model.
New Powertrain
The most important news of the update was the appearance of a more powerful engine under the Punch’s hood. This is a turbocharged 1.2-liter gasoline unit, borrowed from the larger Nexon model. Its power is 118 horsepower, and it works exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
The biggest news for the mid-lifecycle update lies under the hood.
For buyers focused on minimal cost, the naturally aspirated 1.2-liter engine with 87 hp remains in the lineup. A bi-fuel version (petrol/liquefied petroleum gas) is also available, which can now be equipped with an automatic transmission. It is expected that the fully electric Punch EV will also receive this update in the future.
Prices and Competitors
The updated Tata Punch is already available for order in India. Prices start from 5.59 lakh rupees (about $6,200) for the base trim and go up to 10.54 lakh rupees (about $11,700) for the top Accomplished+ S version. Among the main competitors in the market are the Suzuki Ignis, Hyundai Exter, Citroen C3, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite.
The appearance of a turbocharged engine in Tata’s most affordable SUV could significantly change the balance of power in the segment. This gives the car, already famous for its off-road capability and practicality, significantly more dynamism, making it more attractive to a younger audience. At the same time, retaining the affordable naturally aspirated version allows the brand to reach the widest possible range of buyers for whom the main criterion remains low purchase and operating costs. Such a flexible strategy allows the Punch to remain one of the sales leaders in its market.
