KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Punch is the most affordable Tata SUV
- Pricing starts at Rs 6.13 lakh
- One of the safest cars in India
The 2024 Tata Punch is one of the best-selling products in its segment. It also happens to be one of the most safe cars in India. With its practical design and strong build quality, no wonder that it remains in the top-selling charts. If you are also planning to buy the new Punch, make sure to go through the top pros and cons of it below. Also, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp channel to receive the latest auto updates regularly.
Also Read: Tata Nexon Features Highlight
2024 Tata Punch - 5 Positives
Strong Build Quality
Tata Punch became the safest Indian car when it was introduced in 2021. The latest iteration of it is also known for its sturdy build quality, making it withstand harsh crashes. It has also scored a 5-star GNCAP crash test rating. Additionally, the top-spec Punch gets safety features like 6 airbags, ESP, hill-hold assist, etc., that make it the safest vehicle in its category. Punch is known for its rattleproof cabin and good quality materials used overall.
Spacious and Practical Cabin Design
Despite of being a micro-SUV, the cabin design of Punch is very sorted. It has ample space for 4 adults and a child, to sit and travel for long distances. Also, the seats are well designed with appropriate cushioning, hence, making the travel time relaxing for the occupants. There are plenty of storage spaces inside the cabin and the ergonomics are also done well. Last but not least, the doors open at 90 degrees, making it a breeze for old passengers to enter/exit the car.
Well-Tuned Suspension
Tata cars are known for their superb suspension tuning and the Punch is no different case either. The suspension of Punch is well-tuned for the Indian road conditions. The well-balanced chassis of Punch is complemented with a subtle ride quality. The shockers do not get bottomed out over the sharp potholes or tall speed bumps. Also, Punch remains very confident around the corners and bends of ghat sections.
CNG Engine Option
For customers willing to buy a CNG SUV within a budget, Punch offers different variants. The dual-cylinder CNG version of Punch is a good choice in its segment, as it offers a practical and usable boot space. Additionally, its power and torque output are higher than the rest of the CNG rivals. The high fuel economy figures of Punch CNG make it a desirable option among first-time car buyers.
Feature-Rich Variants
Tata offers the Punch with four different variant lineups. These are called 'Personas', and customers can choose a rightly-equipped car as per their budget and desire. Punch is equipped with top-notch features as such auto wipers, auto headlights, traction control on the AMT variants, and more. Additionally, Tata offers a customization option for Punch customers, that helps in creating a perfect vehicle for buyers.
Also Read: 2024 Tata Nexon Pros And Cons
2024 Tata Punch - 5 Negatives
Mediocre Engine Performance
Punch is equipped with a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine. The same engine is also offered with a CNG fuel option. While this engine feels adequate for city driving, it is not a driver's delight. The responsiveness of Punch's engine is just mediocre. It is not punch-packed and sudden overtakes, especially on the highway, need to be planned. Also, over the highways, it feels strained post the 100 kmph mark.
Jerky Automatic Transmission
While Punch offers an affordable automatic AMT gearbox option, this is not a very smooth drivetrain to operate. The harshness of the AMT at lower speeds is evident and it becomes jerky at times in bumper-to-bumper traffic. It also tends to rev hard and gets confused often when the car is suddenly accelerated. The overall experience of this AMT gearbox is not as soothing as rivals that offer CVT automatic options.
Inconsistent Quality
A very common issue with Tata cars is their inconsistent quality. On the outside, there are uneven panel gaps on the Punch, which indicates poor quality control. Also, there are several cases where brand-new cars started rusting. On the inside, the quality of plastic used is below average and inconsistent. The center console area has poor-quality plastic used, and a similar inconsistency prevails throughout the cabin. Also, large panel gaps can be seen around the dashboard area.
Below Average NVH Levels
The noise-vibration-harshness levels of Punch are mediocre. In fact, these left one wanting for more after a short drive. The reason behind it is the cost-cutting. While driving the car, road noise seeps inside the cabin along with the wind noise. Also, the petrol engine is not refined and the working sound of it travels inside the cabin as well. Similarly, the AMT gearbox working can also be easily noticed on the go.
Concerning After-Sales Experience
Tata's after-sales experience is either a hit or a miss. The internet is full of customers crying out for help, as their Tata cars face various troubles. Multiple dealers have undergone legal troubles, as customers proceeded to courts due to the negligence by the after-sales of Tata. Additionally, the repair and workshop experience of Tata is average, as per customer reports online.
Also Read: Top 8 CNG Cars With Best Mileage In India
Verdict
We feel that the Punch is a good SUV for its price tag. It offers a decent space, comfortable drive, and a solid build quality. But, the factors like poor after-sales by Tata and the lack of refinement, makes it an at-par product in its category. You tell us in the comments below, would you buy Punch or prefer any other car over it?
