Right from the start, there were speculations that the Tata Punch would be offered with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine along with a more powerful turbo unit. However, the automaker didn't find it appropriate to offer the Punch with a turbocharged mill at the time of launch, perhaps to make its price range competitive. But now, the reports are suggesting that the Tata Punch i-Turbo could make its way to our market in early 2022.
Also Read: No Waiting Period On Tata Punch's Pre-Booked Units
The Punch will also get the same 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine as the Altroz premium hatchback that churns out a maximum power output of 110PS and 140Nm of peak torque and returns a claimed fuel economy of 18.13kmpl. For this added thrust, it is likely to command a premium of around Rs 80,000 over the ongoing 83PS 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol variants. It is presumed to arrive with just a manual transmission.
Similar to the Altroz, it could also feature an exclusive SPORT drive mode along with the existing CITY and ECO modes.
The i-Turbo version of the Tata Punch is likely to be offered in the mid-spec Accomplished and top-spec Creative variants. Currently, the micro-SUV is available in four broad trims – Pure, Adventure, Accomplished and Creative, which range from Rs 5.49 lakh to Rs 9.39 lakh (ex-showroom). However, these prices are introductory and will be revised in January 2021.
When launched, Tata Punch will become the most powerful offering in its segment. As of now, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite are the only cars in the Punch's price range that come with both naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engine options. Interestingly, the Nios also comes with a diesel motor. Click here to know how this smallest Tata SUV fares against these aforementioned cars.
Also Read: Tata Punch Secured A Full 5-Star GNCAP Adult Safety Rating; Becomes The Safest Indian Car
