Tata Motors is all set to introduce the Tata Punch CNG, with its series production already underway. Following the success of CNG variants in the Tiago, Tigor, and Altroz, the Punch CNG will mark the company’s fourth product to offer this eco-friendly option. Notably, Tata has managed to maintain its unique dual-cylinder setup from the Altroz CNG, ensuring that the CNG variant doesn’t compromise on boot space.
Tata Punch CNG powertrain details
Under the hood, the Tata Punch CNG will retain the same 1.2-litre, three-cylinder engine found in its petrol counterpart. This engine is capable of producing 86hp and 113Nm of torque when running on petrol, while with CNG, the power figures stand at 77hp and 97Nm of peak torque. What sets it apart from its competitors is the ability to start directly in CNG mode, a feature not offered by other cars in its segment.
To tackle the issue of reduced boot space typically associated with CNG tanks, Tata has incorporated a new dual-cylinder setup in the Punch CNG. This unique configuration involves splitting the large 60-litre tank into two separate 30-litre cylinders. These cylinders have been strategically placed under the boot floor, freeing up valuable storage space while ensuring efficient use of CNG.
Tata Punch CNG exterior and interior
From the exterior, the Tata Punch CNG will closely resemble its petrol-powered version, with the only notable addition being the ‘i-CNG’ badge on the tailgate, consistent with Tata Motors’ other CNG models. The interior of the Punch CNG is also expected to remain largely unchanged.
Tata Motors will offer the CNG kit across the entire Punch lineup, including the top-spec models. As a result, the high-end variants of the Punch CNG will come equipped with a host of features, such as a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver’s display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, 16-inch alloy wheels, engine start/stop button, automatic climate control, height-adjustable driver’s seat, and possibly even a sunroof, as showcased at Auto Expo 2023. This sunroof feature is not currently available in the regular petrol-powered Punch.
Regarding pricing, the Tata Punch CNG is expected to command a slight premium over its petrol counterpart. It will compete directly with the Hyundai Exter, which is the only other model in this segment to offer a factory-fitted CNG kit.
With the Tata Punch CNG, the company aims to offer customers a compelling option in the micro SUV segment, combining eco-friendly CNG technology with the practicality and features that consumers have come to expect from Tata Motors.
