Tata Altroz automatic variants are likely to launch in the first half of next year and could command a premium of up to Rs 1 lakh over comparable manual variants
Easily the most premium hatchback from Tata Motors to date, the Tata Altroz has been a worthy competitor to the likes of Maruti Baleno and Hyundai i20. While the car buying lot has appreciated many aspects of the Altroz, what sticks out like a sore thumb is the complete lack of automatic transmission option on any of the engine variants. All this, however, is set to change with the introduction of an automatic option in the first half of 2022.
Also Read- New entry-level Tata Altroz XE+ launched, Prices hiked by Rs. 8,500
Its noteworthy that the Tata Altroz automatic has been in the making for quite a while now and even as the B2-segment hatchback has managed to outsell the Hyundai i20, a section of buyers continue to wait for the introduction of the automatic transmission option. Recently, a highly camouflaged test mule of the Altroz was spotted undergoing road tests. Even though its bodywork was concealed heavily, its clear that the aesthetics havent got any sort of revision.
This isnt much of a surprise as the hatchback is fairly fresh in the market and still some time away from receiving its mid-life makeover. Hence, its highly possible that that the test mule which was recently caught on camera possessed an automatic transmission that is being tested in real-world conditions. Its likely that this hatchback would have received a dual-clutch automatic transmission that would later make it to the market as an optional extra on the turbo-petrol variant.
Also Read- Tata Punch Vs Tata Altroz Comparison - Which One to Pick?
Dubbed iTurbo, this turbocharged petrol engine displaces 1.2-litre and currently comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. It belts out a maximum power of 109bhp along with a peak torque of 140Nm. In comparison, the 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine thats available on the Altroz produces a maximum power of 85bhp and a peak torque of 113Nm. Meanwhile, the diesel mill outputs 89bhp and 200Nm. Akin to the Nexon, the Altroz has bagged a full 5-star score in adult crash protection from Global NCAP, thereby making it one of the safest hatchbacks on sale in the country. The safety kit on offer includes dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchorage, rear parking sensors and ABS with EBD as standard.
The Tata Altroz will even get an all-electric variant in the near future. The e-Altroz debuted at the 2020 Auto Expo and should launch next year. Finally, Tata might even launch a petrol-CNG bi-fuel variant in order to boost the appeal of its most expensive hatchback ever.
Also Read- 1,00,000th Tata Altroz Rolls Out in 20 Months of Launch
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