Tata Altroz CNG Facelift: The Premium Hatchback Undergoes a Facelift

Now we have been observing Tata Motors for the past two months of new field trials, redefining the economics of the premium hatchback segment with the new facelift version of the Altroz CNG.

The spy pictures of the Altroz CNG facelift reveal the car fully camouflaged, though some styling elements can be made out. The new headlamps and DRLs are part of the latest versions of Tata's ongoing lighting signature, one that has been making good progress on most of its newer vehicles.

Other design changes that are apparent are a more aggressive front grille in line with Tata's more contemporary design language. The new front bumper contributes significantly to the aggressiveness of the stance, and moving the fog lamps—now vertical—drastically enhances functionality and aesthetics. The rear also shows changed tail lamps that are likely fitted with LED trim with contemporary light signatures.

The Altroz CNG facelift would experience an across-the-board design cycle, introducing new technologies from the Nexon. The interior changes would involve an enormous infotainment screen with a newer UI, an all-digital dashboard instead of the semi-digital instrument cluster, and a stunning two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo.

More likely, the cabin will be treated to a high-end feel through a redesigned center console, redesigned aircon vents, and a fashionable touch-based HVAC panel in place of the physical controls. The Altroz CNG facelift must maintain under-the-bonnet the same frugal powertrains: the 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol and 1.2-liter turbo-petrol and the 1.5-liter diesel engine.

With the naturally aspirated petrol producing around 86 PS, turbo petrol producing around 110 PS, and diesel producing around 90 PS, performance figure-wise, little change should be expected.

The CNG variant should yield around 73-77 PS on compressed natural gas, presumably from the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. That is a small reduction from petrol, but it should give very good economy, maybe over 26-28 km/kg.

The Altroz CNG facelift will directly compete with the current market leaders, such as the Maruti Suzuki Baleno CNG and Hyundai i20. With Tata's brand image of being safe and offering these premium technologies, we expect the new car to attract a marginal premium over the current model. The new car's prices should begin from around ₹6.5 lakh for the base petrol variant and extend to around ₹10.5 lakh for the top-of-the-line diesel variant (ex-showroom).

The CNG variant needs to carry a premium of approximately ₹75,000-90,000 above the petrol variant, making it a sought-after product for those who want lower operating costs without sacrificing features.