Budget Bout: Can Tata Punch Prices Knock Out Costly Creta SUV from Hyundai?
The subcompact SUV segment in India has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, thanks to the variety of options available that appeal to a wide set of new-age buyers. These compact SUVs offer a good balance of performance, premium features, and affordability - making them a sweet spot for many.
Established names like Hyundai Creta have led the way in this space for years now, virtually defining the segment. However, new entrants like Tata Punch see an opportunity to disrupt the status with their fresh design language and aggressive pricing. Let's delve deeper into how these two contrasting subcompact SUVs stack up.
Tata Motors took everyone by surprise with the Punch micro-SUV that arrived in early 2021. Positioned below the popular Nexon, the Punch targets first-time car buyers or those looking for a capable second car for city commutes and occasional highway duties.
The Punch strikes an appealing balance of SUV looks with a compact and easy-to-navigate size. At just 3.8 meters long and 1.7 meters wide, it is over a foot shorter than the Creta but doesn't feel cramped inside, thanks to intelligent space utilisation. The tall boy design and short overhangs give it an edge over other sub-4-meter rivals' on-road presence.
Powering the Punch is a 3-cylinder 1.2L Revotron petrol engine offering 86.63bhp and 113Nm torque. It is mated to either a 5-speed manual or AMT transmission. The Punch boasts one of the best-in-class fuel efficiency figures of 18.97km/l for the manual variant. This keeps running costs extremely low.
In terms of features, Tata has loaded the Punch with everything one expects from a modern micro-SUV, even in the entry-level trim. Standard features include an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, auto AC, rear parking camera, cruise control and more. Higher-spec variants get additional goodies like wireless chargers and front fog lamps.
Safety is also taken care of with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control,
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