Zidd pe aaya hai! Tata has been on a tear in the CNG segment, breaking conventions and setting new standards. Remember when everyone charged a premium for a CNG option? Tata said, “Nah!” and offered top-end variants with CNG. Then, they blew everyone’s minds with the Altroz CNG’s twin-cylinder magic, freeing up boot space. Now, they’ve dropped a bomb: India’s first CNG Automatic car – the Tiago CNG Automatic! Is it all “shonar bangla” or just another marketing gimmick? Let’s dive in!
Under the Hood: CNG Power with Automatic Ease
Pop the hood (figuratively, since it’s flip-key start) and you’ll find the familiar 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder engine from the Tigor and Altroz. This workhorse puts out 86hp and 113Nm on petrol, dropping to 73hp and 95Nm on CNG. But here’s the twist: it’s mated to a 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)! No more clutch-burning city commutes, just smooth, relaxed driving, even on CNG.
On the Road: City Slicker or Highway Hog?
Start the car, and it automatically fires up in CNG mode, saving you a few precious petrol drops. On the move, this engine isn’t a speed demon, but it’s linear and predictable. No surprises, just get-up-and-go power for navigating city traffic. Need a burst of speed? Switch to petrol for a similar feel. Both modes handle daily traffic like champs, but push it on the highway, and you’ll sense the CNG’s lack of urgency.
The Gearbox: Friend or Foe?
The AMT does have its quirks. Expect the typical “head-nod” during gear changes, but it’s eager to downshift and keep the engine in its sweet spot. Bonus points for the Tiptronic function, giving you manual control when you want it.
Price: Value for Money or Premium Pinch?
Tata hasn’t announced the official price yet, but expect it to be slightly higher than the regular Tiago AMT. However, considering the convenience of an automatic gearbox and the lower running costs of CNG, it could be a value proposition for many buyers.
So, Should You Buy It?
It depends! If you’re a city commuter who prioritizes convenience and fuel efficiency, the Tiago CNG Automatic is a strong contender. But if you crave performance or regularly hit the highways, you might find it lacking. Ultimately, take a test drive and see if it fits your needs and budget. Remember, India’s first CNG Automatic car comes with its own set of pros and cons. Weigh them carefully before making a decision!
