Update - Tata Motors has now launched the i-Turbo version of the Altroz and is available in three variants - XT, XZ and XZ+. It starts from Rs 7.74 lakh and top model fetches till Rs 8.86 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi.
The Altroz is one of those cars which Tata Motors is really proud of. In fact, Tata motors claim it to be the "Gold Standard" when it comes to premium hatchbacks sold in India. Is Altroz is truly the "Gold Standard"? This is something for you all to decide once present the Pros and Cons of the Tata Altroz in this article.
Before we share the Pros and Cons of the Tata Altroz, make sure to join our exclusive 91Wheels Telegram group where we share the latest information about the Indian Automotive Industry.
Pros of the Tata Altroz
Safety
The Altroz is indeed one of the safest premium hatchbacks out on sale in India at the moment. With a rating of 5 stars in the Global NCAP, the Altroz does go one up over the other competitors in the segment when it comes to the safety aspect. Additionally, a host of safety features is standard across all the variants of the Altroz. Some of these include ABS with EBD, CSC, ISOFIX mounts, dual airbags and impact sensing auto door unlock.
Space and practicality
This is another parameter where the Altroz scores over the rest of the competition. It not only has doors that have a very wide reach but also has an almost flat floor. Thus the rear seat can not only seat 3 people easily but also means that entering and exiting is easy. Also at 340 litres, boot space is second only to the Honda Jazz. This makes the Altroz not only a comfortable and spacious car but a practical one as well.
Diesel option
The Altroz was the first premium hatchback to come with a diesel engine that was complying with the BS6 emission norms. In fact, it is one of the 2 premium hatchbacks that actually offer a diesel powertrain. It comes with the 1.5 Revotorq diesel engine that puts out 90 PS of power and 200 Nm of torque. This engine is not only punchy but is very frugal as well.
Exterior looks
The Altroz is one of the better-looking premium hatches sold on the market today and there is no doubt about that. While the looks are very unique, they are not really polarising unlike some vehicles out in the market. The "Impact 2.0" design makes the car look upmarket when compared to the competition.
Cons of the Tata Altroz
Lack of powertrain choices
This continues to the biggest complaint since the Altroz got launched. The current 1.2 naturally aspirated 3 cylinder is absolutely underpowered and does not do justice to a car of this calibre. This issue is also accompanied by the lack of an automatic gearbox expectation. While a turbocharged petrol engine and a dual-clutch automatic are in the works, Tata should have launched them earlier.
Quality of the interior trim
As much as we liked the exterior of the Altroz for its looks and build quality, we cannot say the same for the interior. The general quality of the interior trim is not that great and feels cheap. This is something that does not really do justice to the "Gold Standard" of hatchbacks.
Dodgy aftersales and general issues
While many Tata motors dealers and service centres have improved by leaps and bounds when it has come to after-sales experiences for the customers, they still have a long way to go. Tata motors should also look to improve their quality control department in order to ensure that faulty cars don't ruin the good work of their cars.
Conclusion
The Tata Altroz is indeed a very compelling car. It looks good, is safe, has good driving dynamics and is spacious and practical as well. While fairly competent in the diesel form, it needs a turbocharged petrol engine and an automatic variant to truly achieve the "Gold Standard" that it claims to be.
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