Tata Motors is all set to introduce the Tata Punch CNG, and sources have confirmed that series production has already commenced. This micro SUV will be the fourth offering from Tata Motors to receive a CNG variant, following the success of the CNG versions of Tiago, Tigor, and Altroz. What sets the Punch CNG apart is its unique dual-cylinder setup, ensuring that the CNG installation does not compromise the vehicle’s boot space, a feature also seen in the Altroz CNG.
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Powertrain Details:
The Tata Punch CNG will retain the same 1.2-litre, three-cylinder engine used in its petrol counterpart. Mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, this engine generates 86hp and 113Nm of torque with petrol, and when running on CNG, it produces 77hp and 97Nm of peak torque. Notably, the Punch can be started directly in CNG mode, a convenience not offered by its competitors.
Innovative Dual-Cylinder Setup:
Tata Motors has ingeniously addressed the challenge of limited boot space in the Punch CNG by employing a new dual-cylinder arrangement. Instead of one large 60-litre CNG tank that would occupy significant boot space, the vehicle now features two smaller cylinders, each with a 30-litre capacity. Tata cleverly positions these cylinders under the boot floor, freeing up valuable storage space.
Exterior and Interior Features:
The Tata Punch CNG will retain its original exterior design, with the only noticeable change being the addition of the ‘i-CNG’ badge on the tailgate, similar to other CNG models in Tata Motors’ lineup. Expectations are that the interior will remain largely unchanged from the regular Punch variant.
Full Range Offering:
Tata Motors equips all Punch variants with the CNG kit, ensuring top-spec models are feature-rich. The Punch CNG boasts a 7.0-inch touchscreen, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, digital driver’s display, 16-inch alloy wheels, engine start/stop button, automatic climate control, height-adjustable driver seat, and possibly a sunroof, showcased at Auto Expo 2023, unavailable in the regular petrol Punch.
Expected Pricing
The Tata Punch CNG is likely to have a slightly higher price than its petrol counterpart and will compete with the Hyundai Exter, the only other model in this segment offering a factory-fitted CNG kit.
Punch CNG, with its innovative dual-cylinder setup and the promise of a feature-packed offering, is expected to make a significant impact in the micro SUV market.
