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Expert Review on Tata Punch 2026

  • Expert Rating
    c&b icon8.7/10
  • Safety
    9
    Comfort
    8
    Styling
    9.5
    Merit / USP
    8.5
    Significance
    8.75
    Value for Money
    8.75

Tata Punch 2026 Review and Opinion - Top 5 Things to Know 

The 2026 Tata Punch is a refreshed version of the popular compact SUV with ground up changes, more of improvements. This includes an evolved design, new tech, and enhanced performance. Apart from the standard 1.2L petrol engine, Tata Motors has provided a 1.2L turbo-petrol option. While a 1.2L CNG bi-fuel option also continues to be offered, the standard petrol only comes with an automatic transmission.

We at Car&Bike got a chance to get behind the wheel of the turbo-petrol, and Bilal Firfiray posts his first impressions with the new six-speed manual gearbox. Here are the five key takeaways from the first drive review of the 2026 Tata Punch facelift.

  • The Punch facelift's 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine is from the bigger Nexon.
  • But in a smaller car with 118bhp and 170Nm, it makes it more powerful and fun to drive.
  • As against the standard naturally aspirated engine, the turbo-petrol lives up to the expectation.

Bilal gives context for the Punch's engine with that of the Nexon, while also drawing a parallel with the Punch EV. He explains, "First thing, there is a new engine. Taken from the bigger sibling, the Nexon, it is a 1.2-litre turbo petrol, three-cylinder, which makes 118bhp and 170Nm. That’s almost the same amount of power you get in the Punch EV, but this one is almost 200kilograms lighter. 

 

Pros

  • Tata Punch is built on the ALFA platform, making it a robust and compact micro SUV with excellent ground clearance of 187 mm, perfect for rough terrains and urban roads alike.
  • The 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine delivers 85 bhp and 113 Nm of torque, providing peppy performance for city commutes, especially with the light and easy-to-drive nature of the 5-speed manual and AMT versions.
  • It has scored a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, making it one of the safest vehicles in its segment, with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard.

Cons

  • The AMT gearbox shows hesitation during gear shifts, particularly from first to third, which can affect the smoothness of the drive.
  • The rear seat comfort is compromised due to limited legroom, and while it's a compact SUV, the back row can feel tight for taller passengers.
  • The infotainment screen is relatively small at 7 inches and could be more responsive, with noticeable lag during operation

Verdict

Tata Punch is a strong contender in the micro SUV segment, offering a blend of SUV styling, solid safety credentials, and practical features at an affordable price point. While there are minor issues with the AMT gearbox and rear seat space, the overall value for money, robust build quality, and top-tier safety make it a great choice for urban families looking for a compact, safe, and stylish vehicle.

Tata Punch 2026 Price List (Variant Wise)

Tata Punch 2026 Ex-Showroom price ranges from ₹ 5.59 to 10.54 Lakh. Tata offers Punch 2026 in 24 variants. The top variant of Punch 2026 is Accomplished Plus S CNG AMT and the base variant is Smart CNG.

Variants
*Ex-Showroom Price
Smart CNG
Petrol+CNG, 20 KM/L, Manual
Starts at
₹ 5.59 Lakh
Pure CNG
Petrol+CNG, 20 KM/L, Manual
Starts at
₹ 7.49 Lakh
Pure Plus CNG
Petrol+CNG, 20 KM/L, Manual
Starts at
₹ 7.99 Lakh
Accomplished CNG
Petrol+CNG, 20 KM/L, Manual
Starts at
₹ 8.29 Lakh

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