Tata Tigor

One glance at the Tigor, and its lineage is evident. It draws major design elements from the Tata Tiago hatchback. The front boasts a hexagonal grille flanked by twin-barrel headlamps housing projector low beams and halogen highs. Unfortunately, the design lacks LED daytime running lights. The petrol Tigor flaunts 15-inch dual-tone diamond-cut wheels, while the diesel settles for 14-inch ones. However, the real stunner is its rear – a fusion of coupe-like roofline and a seamlessly integrated boot. Noteworthy are the innovative high-mounted spoiler with an end-to-end tail lamp and the 3D tail lamps. The sporty rear bumper adds the final touch, making the Tigor a good looking sub-4-metre sedan in India.

Inside, the Tigor doesn’t stray far from its sibling, Tiago. However, it packs a punch with an array of additional features. The dashboard houses a touchscreen infotainment system with Mirrorlink, enabling seamless phone integration for navigation and media. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is on offer too, at least on the top-spec variants and elevate the entertainment experience. The top variants come equipped with climate control and a robust dashboard with aesthetically pleasing colour-coded AC vent surrounds. The clarity of the instrument cluster is commendable, enhanced with a unique silver-painted surround.

The Tata Tigor comes equipped with Anti Lock Brakes (ABS), and ensures maximum control even in demanding braking scenarios, diminishing the risks of skidding. The Tigor comes with standard dual airbags, ensuring the well-being of both the driver and the front passenger in the unfortunate event of a collision. As urban landscapes become denser and road conditions fluctuate, the braking feedback from the Tigor remains optimal, instilling confidence in the driver. Whether navigating the bustling city streets or cruising on the highway, Tata Tigor’s commitment to safety is evident, promising a secure journey every single time.

Powering the Tigor are two three-cylinder engines borrowed from the Tiago. The 1.2-litre petrol engine delivers an output of 84 bhp and 114 Nm of torque. While these specifications seem impressive theoretically, real-world performance suggests a hint of sluggishness and lack of punch. However, the diesel engine, a turbocharged 1.05 litre, might have lesser power at 69 bhp but compensates with a robust torque of 140 Nm, making city rides smooth. Both engines are paired with a light clutch and a precise gear shift, ensuring fatigue-free drives even in peak traffic.

At the heart of the Tata Tigor’s ride experience lies its well-calibrated suspension system. The front MacPherson struts and rear twist-beam setup have been tuned well to absorb the undulations on Indian roads, ensuring that occupants are comfortable most of the time. Whether navigating through the rough patches of rural terrain or cruising on smooth highways, the Tigor remains unperturbed, delivering a plush ride quality that’s synonymous with luxury.

Steering is another forte of the Tigor. The Electric Power-assisted Steering (EPAS) system offers a fine blend of feedback and ease, making city maneuvering a breeze while instilling confidence during high-speed highway jaunts. The steering weighs up nicely as the speedometer climbs, ensuring that the driver remains connected to the road, feeling every contour and curve. The chassis exhibits minimal body roll, and when thrown into corners, the Tigor holds its line well. It’s a car that encourages spirited driving, yet remains composed, ensuring safety remains paramount. Braking, too, is commendable. The Tigor's disc-drum brakr combination provides progressive stopping power, ensuring the vehicle halts with precision and predictability, even under demanding conditions.

Tata has priced the Tigor between Rs. 6.30-8.95 lakh. While the Tigor is not aggressively priced, it does make for a good value-for-money proposition.

Selecting the right variant is important, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck without compromising on essential features. With the Tata Tigor, this decision becomes even more significant due to the array of choices on offer. Starting with prices from Rs. 6.30 lakh and going up to Rs 8.95 lakh. But it’s not just about the price; it’s about what you get for that price. For families desiring a comprehensive package replete with commendable ride and handling, spacious interiors, and decent equipment, the Tigor stands tall. However, if engine performance and refinement are your priorities, it might be worth considering other options or waiting for a potential engine upgrade from Tata. In essence, assess your needs, prioritise your preferences, and choose a variant that aligns seamlessly with your budget.

The Tata Tigor enters a fiercely competitive market, facing off against the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, Honda Amaze, and more. However, amidst these rivals, the Tata Tigor holds on its own, with its unique propositions. Its distinct fastback styling, competitive pricing, and a decent list of features help the car carve out its own territory. The Tata Tigor is a good option for small families, new car buyers and city dwellers. It has a good blend of style, substance, and value. The competition is fierce, but Tata Tigor, with its innovative approach, has the potential to do well in this segment.

Also, check out our in-depth Review: Tata Tigor Review