The Tata Altroz, launched in 2020, made a splash in the Indian premium hatchback segment with its striking design, spacious interiors, and competitive features. Now, in 2024, Tata Motors is gearing up for a mid-cycle facelift to keep the Altroz fresh and relevant in the face of ever-evolving competition. While official details remain scarce, here’s what we can expect from the upcoming Tata Altroz facelift based on rumors, spy shots, and industry trends.
Exterior Design: Subtle Tweaks with a Hint of Sportiness
Expect the exterior design to remain largely unchanged, retaining the Altroz’s sharp lines and sculpted surfaces. However, subtle tweaks are likely, such as a revised grille with a bolder design, updated LED headlamps and taillights, and new alloy wheel options. The Altroz Racer showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo might offer hints, with its sportier front and rear bumpers and blacked-out elements.
Interior Refresh: More Tech, More Comfort
The current Altroz boasts a well-designed and spacious cabin. The facelift is expected to elevate the experience further with a focus on technology and comfort. A larger touchscreen infotainment system, similar to the 10.25-inch unit seen in the Nexon and Punch EV, is a strong possibility. Additionally, features like a fully digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and an air purifier might be borrowed from the Altroz Racer concept. Expect improved upholstery and soft-touch materials to enhance the premium feel.
Powertrain Options: No Major Changes Expected
The current engine options – a 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.2L turbo-petrol, and a 1.5L diesel – are likely to be carried forward with minor tweaks to meet stricter emission norms. However, the Altroz Racer’s 1.2L turbo-petrol engine with 120PS and 170Nm could be offered as a performance variant in the facelift. The possibility of an automatic transmission option for the turbo-petrol engine remains a speculation.
Safety First: Keeping Up with the Standards
Safety is a key focus for Tata Motors, and the Altroz facelift is expected to maintain its 5-star Global NCAP rating. Additional safety features like six airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control could be offered across variants.
Launch and Price: A Competitive Contender
While an official launch date hasn’t been announced, experts predict a late-2024 arrival for the Altroz facelift. The price is expected to see a slight increase, likely within the range of Rs 60,000 to Rs 70,000, due to the updated features and technology.
The Verdict: A Promising Update in a Competitive Segment
The Tata Altroz facelift, based on current information, appears to be a promising update that aims to solidify the hatchback’s position in the premium segment. The focus on technology, comfort, and safety enhancements, combined with a potential performance variant, should keep the Altroz competitive against rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai i20, and Volkswagen Polo. However, the final verdict will depend on the official specifications, price, and driving experience, which will be revealed closer to the launch date.
