Tata Punch Vs Rivals: Which Is The Best Micro-SUV?

The famous dialogue "Everywhere I go, I see his face" perfectly suits the Tata Punch. This micro SUV has taken the automotive industry by storm, retaining the number one position on the sales chart for several months. To elaborate further, in June 2024, 18,238 units of the Punch were delivered, and before that, 18,949 units. It seems like Tata has cracked the code for Indian buyers' needs and wants and manufactured a product that simply outperforms its competitors. That's why today, I am going to find out which of its rivals have to offer.

The competitors are Hyundai Exter, Nissan Magnite, and Maruti Fronx. So, let's start and find out. Before that, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp Channel to never miss out on any automotive news.

Also Read: Tata Nexon Vs Rivals: Read The Most Detailed Comparison

Price Comparison Of Tata Punch vs Rivals

The Tata Punch starts at Rs 6.12 lakh ex-showroom and is available in 26 trims, offering a 1.2L petrol engine and a CNG option, along with 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT transmissions. It's a great attempt by Tata to cater to people with varied budgets. Creative Flagship Dual Tone AMT, the top trim, costs Rs 10.19 lakh ex-showroom

If we talk about the Hyundai Exter, it starts at Rs 6.12 lakh, the same as the Punch, and offers 28 trims, with the top model, SX (O) Connect AMT Knight Edition, costing Rs 10.42 lakh ex-showroom.

The Nissan Magnite is cheaper than these vehicles, with the base model costing Rs 5.99 lakh and the top model costing Rs 11.10 lakh ex-showroom. Last but not least, the Maruti Fronx is a more expensive micro SUV, starting at Rs 7.51 lakh, with the top model costing Rs 13.03 lakh ex-showroom. To add more, Fronx is the most expensive vehicle here, and the longest with 3995 mm length.

Engine Comparison: Tata Punch vs Rivals

The Tata Punch features a 1.2L Revotron petrol engine and an optional twin-cylinder CNG variant. This petrol engine delivers 87.8 PS and 115 Nm of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT transmission. For the CNG model, power output is reduced to 73.5 PS and 103 Nm of torque, and it comes exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission.

So, here is a detailed specifications table of all the competitors of the Tata Punch. It's important to note that all are ICE models. The CNG specifications table is below. That said, the Maruti Fronx is the standout winner, as its turbocharged 1.0L petrol engine produces 100 PS and 147 Nm of torque while still offering an average of 20 kmpl. The second one here is the Nissan Magnite, which offers more torque in the turbo model but delivers 17.4 kmpl of mileage.

The Exter and Punch lag behind in terms of power, offering only a single petrol engine each. Despite that, the 1.2L engines in both cars are competent enough that drivers won't feel they need a more powerful engine when driving these cars.

When it comes to bi-fuel options, the Maruti Fronx again wins this competition, as it offers more power, more torque, and an average of 28.5 km/kg. So, in terms of engine performance, no one can beat this Maruti car.

Features: Tata Punch vs Rivals

Let's talk about features: the Hyundai Exter and Nissan Magnite have an edge over the Tata Punch and Maruti Fronx. Some of the exclusive features you get in the Nissan Magnite are an air purifier, 360-degree camera, fully digital MID, and an armrest. On the other hand, the Exter provides a dual-dash camera, wireless charging pad, voice-assisted sunroof, 8-inch HD touchscreen, digital MID, and paddle shifters.

The Tata Punch has adequate features but nothing special like the Exter and Magnite. The same goes for the Maruti Fronx; however, the interior of the Fronx is filled with multiple colors and feels dynamic.

Dimensions of Tata Punch vs Rivals

Micro-SUV dimensions vary significantly among these models. While the Magnite and Fronx share similar dimensions, the Punch and Exter are more compact. Despite measuring 3827 mm in length, the Punch offers 366 L of boot space, surpassing both the Magnite and Fronx, and can comfortably fit 2 to 3 trolley bags along with other items.

That said, the highest boot space comes with the Hyundai Exter, which offers 391 L of space. If we talk about ground clearance, the Nissan Magnite has 205 mm, giving it the feel of a proper SUV with its big wheel arches, and wide body stance.