Engine, Gearbox, Performance

The Altroz we drove for the weekend was the 1.5L Diesel powered 90 horsepower, 200 Nm motor. We feel this is a better option than the petrol powered Altroz. The power is linear, but builds speed quickly and it isn’t underpowered by any stretch of imagination. Thanks to the light clutch, driving in city traffic is easy.  The gearbox isn’t the slickest of the lot and doesn’t like to be put through quick shifts. However, keep it normal, gentle and everything will be fine. However having an automatic gearbox will make things better. Hope Tata Motors launches that variant sooner rather than later. NVH levels are well controlled but the engine does get a little vocal at the top end of the rev band.

Ride and Handling

This has to be one of the highlights of the Altroz, great ride quality and handling feels balanced.  The suspension is tad on a stiffer side, low speed bumps are noticed but as you gather speed, it very well isolates those bumps. High-speed stability is very good and steering wheel doesn’t feel disconnected at those speeds. In fact, steering weighs well at triple digit speeds. Long distance journeys shouldn’t be a problem and the Altroz can cruise all day long and at decent pace.  The steering also feels light when driving around in traffic. Parking is not at all difficult and the reverse camera helps things as well.

Verdict

All in all, Tata Altroz is a complete package. It turns heads, offers the right comfort, space along with best tech, rides and handles well. And with 5-star Global NCAP crash test rating it’s the safest out there.

While most car makers have dumped diesels after the BS VI era came in,  this does work in favour of the Altroz, especially for those who prefer the pull and grunt of a diesel engine or clock substantial kms on a highway, not to mention the longer tank range.

With the Tata Altroz becoming the official partner for this year’s Indian Premier League, it’s a good way for Tata Motors to showcase their premium hatchback.  It’s a great all round package that makes for a great city and highway car. Now Tata Motors, can you just get in the automatic quickly please?

Tata Altroz photo gallery: