KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Altroz Racer comes powered by a potent 1.2L turbo petrol engine.
- Lacks dual-clutch automatic transmission, disappointing some buyers.
- Potential to outperform rivals with the introduction of DCA unit.
Tata Motors recently launched the Racer Edition of Altroz in India. The hatchback has now become a hot hatch with a more potent engine. With a new engine, the new Altroz Racer also comes with some major cosmetic changes and advanced features. While the Atroz Racer derives its turbo petrol engine from the Nexon, it lacks the Dual-clutch automatic transmission that is offered with the subcompact SUV. The new Racer Edition of the Altroz only gets a six-speed manual transmission. The lack of an automatic transmission has disappointed people who wish to have a sportier drive with the convenience of an automatic transmission.
However, there are various reasons why the new hot hatch should come with an automatic gearbox. Find out more details below and join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group to stay updated on the latest automotive news.
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Notchy Gearbox of the Altroz Racer
However, the new Tata Atroz Racer features a new clutch that reacts faster than ever before, but the car still lacks smooth gear shifts. The 6-speed manual gearbox offered with the hatchback feels quite notchy. So, if the automaker offers an automatic gearbox with the new hot hatch, it will further enhance the driving experience.
Effortless and Convenient Drive
We all are aware of the convenience that an automatic transmission provides while driving a car. There is no other thing that can compensate for the comfort of those clutchless shifts. The automatic transmission also provides a safer ride as the driver stays focused on handling the steering instead of shifting gears manually.
Altroz Racer is an Upmarket Hatchback
The Atroz Racer Edition sits in the premium hatchback segment. Buyers opting for the hatchback with an on-road price of more than 10 lakh expect premium drive quality. The introduction of a dual-clutch automatic transmission will increase the drive quality and provide a high level of convenience to the drivers. While the performance enthusiasts will still opt for the manual version, buyers seeking a convenient driving experience should also be catered to.
Will Chip Away the Altroz Racer Rivals
Currently, the new Tata Altroz Racer has one straight rival in the market -Hyundai i20 N Line which comes with both manual and automatic transmission. However, the Racier version of the Altroz weakens its rival in terms of pricing, a lack of an automatic transmission could become a deal-breaker for some buyers. The introduction of a DCA unit with the Altroz Racer will chip away all rivals of the hot hatch.
Already Available DCA Unit
Tata Motors has no lack of automatic transmission as it already offers a DCA unit with the Nexon sub-compact SUV. So, there is no dilemma in sourcing the gearbox for the brand. On the other hand, the Altroz Racer has derived its engine from the Nexon, so it will not be a huge problem to pair the same DCA unit offered with the sub-compact SUV.
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Verdict
The Racer Edition of Tata Altroz ensures power with its new turbo engine and sporty upgrades but falls short by omitting an automatic transmission. This decision could alienate buyers seeking convenience in a competitive market. Introducing an automatic option would enhance appeal and better compete against rivals like the Hyundai i20 N Line, creating a win-win situation for the automaker.
