Tata Motors has officially taken the wraps off the 2026 Tata Punch facelift ahead of its market launch scheduled for January 13. This marks the most significant update for the micro-SUV since its debut in 2021, bringing comprehensive changes to styling, cabin technology and even the powertrain lineup.
With a refreshed design inspired by the Punch EV, an upgraded interior and the addition of a turbo-petrol engine, the updated Punch aims to strengthen its position in one of India’s most competitive entry-SUV segments.
2026 Tata Punch: Launch Timeline and Key Highlights
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Price announcement: January 13, 2026
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Design inspiration: Tata Punch EV
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New features: Larger touchscreen, digital cluster, 360-degree camera (expected)
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Engine options: Petrol, turbo-petrol and CNG
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Segment rivals: Hyundai Exter, Citroen C3
New Tata Punch Facelift Exterior: EV-Inspired Styling
The updated Punch adopts Tata’s latest family design language, closely mirroring the Punch EV. Up front, the vertically stacked headlamp housings are retained, but the facelift introduces a sharper LED DRL signature separated by a contrasting black strip. Unlike the EV version, the ICE Punch gets a blacked-out front bumper, lending it a tougher, more rugged look.
From the side, changes are subtle and limited to newly designed alloy wheels. At the rear, however, the facelift is far more noticeable thanks to a connected LED tail-lamp setup, revised LED elements and a reworked bumper. Tata is also expected to expand the colour palette with fresh paint options at launch.
Interior and Features: Bigger Screens, More Tech
Inside, the 2026 Punch borrows heavily from Tata’s newer models like the Nexon and Altroz. The dashboard layout looks more modern and tech-focused, headlined by:
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A new digital instrument cluster
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An updated touchscreen infotainment system (likely 10.25-inch)
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A two-spoke steering wheel with integrated controls
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Touch-based climate control panel
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Revised upholstery and trim finishes
On higher variants, Tata is also expected to introduce a 360-degree camera, a first for the Punch, further boosting its urban usability credentials.
Powertrain Updates: Turbo-Petrol Joins the Line-up
In a rare move for a facelift, Tata has added a new engine option to the Punch range. Alongside the existing powertrains, the compact SUV will now be offered with:
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1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol (88hp)
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5-speed manual
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5-speed AMT
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1.2-litre turbo-petrol (borrowed from Nexon; output TBC)
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1.2-litre petrol+CNG (73hp) with 5-speed manual
The turbo-petrol variant is expected to significantly improve performance, especially for highway driving, making the Punch more appealing to buyers seeking extra punch without moving up a segment.
Expected Price and Market Positioning
The outgoing Tata Punch was priced between Rs 5.50 lakh and Rs 9.30 lakh (ex-showroom). With the extensive updates on offer, the facelifted model is likely to command a modest premium, with prices expected to range from around Rs 6 lakh to Rs 9.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
Once launched, the 2026 Tata Punch facelift will continue to take on rivals like the Hyundai Exter and Citroen C3, while also strengthening Tata Motors’ already strong presence in the sub-4m SUV space.