The facelifted model of the Tata Punch SUV was spotted testing yet again on Indian roads. The compact SUV has been in the testing phase since the start of the year. The latest test mule looks like the production-spec model. Tata could take the wraps off the facelift by the end of December and launch it early next year. Expect the promotional campaign to begin soon.
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Table of Contents
Tata Punch facelift: What to expect?
In its most recent outing, the Punch’s test mule was draped under heavy camouflage. The cutouts on the front fascia suggest a complete design overhaul for the grille, LED headlamps, and DRLs. Like its all-electric counterpart, the headlamps of the Punch will be placed in triangular housings. The grille will likely have multiple slats. The lower section of the grille will have a slatted look instead of mesh elements.
The profile of the Punch facelift will be identical to the current model. The only difference will be a new design for the alloy wheels. The recent test mule confirms squared-off wheel arches and C-pillar-mounted rear door handles. The pillars are blacked out, and there’s decent body cladding. At the back, the tailgate has a flatter form factor, and the windshield has a greater rake angle. The LED tail lamps will be connected by a light bar. The rear bumper will likely sport a new look, too.
No new spy shots of the interior have emerged so far. Going by the previous leaks, the facelifted model will rock a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system will support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The two-spoke steering wheel will have an illuminated Tata logo at the centre. Features like a 360-degree camera, a voice-assisted electric sunroof, rear AC vents, an engine start/stop button, and fast USB charging are also expected to make the cut.
The Tata Punch facelift will remain mechanically unchanged. The current model comes in 2 powertrain options – petrol and CNG. 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine generates a maximum power output of 86hp and 113Nm of torque. It can be mated to a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. In a CNG avatar, the SUV’s output drops to 73hp and 103Nm. Currently, the CNG model is available with a manual transmission only. The facelift could offer an automatic gearbox as well.
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Final Thoughts
Tata Motors will begin accepting bookings for the Punch facelift soon after its launch. The current lineup starts at Rs 5.50 lakh and goes up to Rs 9.30 lakh. We expect the facelifted model to demand a premium between Rs 30,000 – Rs 50,000. Upon launch, it will rival the Hyundai Exter, Nissan Magnite, Citroen C3, Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor, Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Skoda Kylaq, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza in India.
