On the style mile with the Tata Tigor

Though strikingly similar to Tiago, the Tata Tigor takes the design quotient a notch higher

The Tigor is the latest style statement from Tata Motors. It is quite similar to the Tiago, right up to the C-pillar that slopes into a well-formed boot, giving the Tigor a stylish notchback look. 

No wonder, the car is called the StyleBack Tigor by the company. The moment I gazed at the car, I realised that the fascia bore a striking resemblance to the Tiago. The Tigor has a dual-coloured bumper with the Tata Signature Grille, which is accentuated with a chrome humanity line at the front, with the looks further enhanced by the crystal-like, smoked projector headlamps.Unfortunately, there are no DRLs (daytime running lights), which are in vogue these days. 

The side profile of the car is enhanced with 15-inch alloys for the petrol variant, while the diesel variant has to make do with only 14-inch alloys. Tata Motors engineers and stylists have worked pretty hard to get the right design flow beyond the C-pillar. The rear features split tail lamps with a chrome strip between them and a long LED stop lamp fitted high above the descending roof line at the rear.

Tata Motors has given a darker shade to the dual tone dashboard, with the centre console area sporting a piano black finish. The smart seats offer good under-thigh and back support. The rear seat now comes with an arm rest in the middle. 

As for storage spaces for cups, bottles and mobiles, there are 24 utility spaces within the cabin. There is also a huge boot space of around 419 litres. The traditional push-down/pull-up lock mechanism that is there on the inner door frame act as the door lock. 

The Tigor now has two 12V power outlets, one in the front console area and the other one on the floor console area, the latter addressing the charging needs for those in the rear seat.  Automatic climate control comes as a new feature. The car comes with eight Harman speakers.  What’s new here is that the infotainment system comes with a five-inch touchscreen enabled with video playback, voice command recognition, SMS readout and display for the rear parking assist camera. Steering mounted controls can adjust volume and activate voice control. While the system is equipped with a comprehensive app suite, it is sadly compatible only with Android smartphones.

The car does not seem underpowered at all, despite the fact the Tigor is now 50 kg heavier in its notchback avatar. Both engines are available with multi-drive modes — Eco and City. The steering wheel is tilt adjustable, but is not telescopic.  The electric power assisted steering is designed for a light steering feel and for easy manoeuvring. Despite its added length, the car is planted to the road at high speeds and, with its dual path suspension in front and rear, allows for a good drive and handling. NVH levels in both petrol and diesel are well under control. 

When it comes to safety, the Tigor has dual front airbags, an energy absorbing body structure, anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution and corner stability control for improved braking efficiency.

Tata Tigor

Engine: Revotorq 1,047cc, 3-cylinder (diesel); Revotron 1,199 cc, 3-cylinder (petrol)

Transmission: Manual 5-speed

Power: 69hp@4,000 rpm (diesel); 84hp@6,000 rpm (petrol)

Torque: 140Nm@1,800-3,000 rpm (diesel); 140Nm@1,800-3,000 rpm (petrol)

Price: To be announced
 

Reports: Motown India; www.motownindia.com