When Tata Punch first landed on Indian roads in 2021, it didn’t just enter the market—it created one. By carving out the authentic sub-compact SUV segment and backing it with a 5-star safety rating, the Punch quickly went from “new kid on the block” to “India’s most loved SUV.” Fast forward to 2024, and it even grabbed the crown as India’s highest-selling car. Clearly, this was no lightweight contender.
Now, Tata Motors is back with the New Tata Punch, and it has decided that subtle upgrades are overrated. The refreshed Punch arrives bolder, longer, smarter, and more capable—essentially the same friendly Punch, but after a solid workout regimen.
Bigger Attitude, Same Familiar DNA
The New Punch wears its SUV credentials more confidently than ever. A strong vertical grille, rugged bull-guard bumper, expanded cladding, and a bold skid plate inspired by full-sized off-roaders give it a tougher stance. The updated proportions, now 49 mm longer, make the Punch look wider and more planted—like it finally learned how to occupy road space with authority rather than apology.
Modern lighting elements such as Powersight LED headlamps and the new Infinity Glow connected LED tail lamps ensure it doesn’t just look confident during the day but also makes a statement after sunset.
A Cabin That Thinks It’s From a Bigger SUV
Step inside, and the Punch continues its “segment upgrade” story. The cabin feels airy, solid, and unmistakably SUV-like. A 10.25-inch Ultra View HD touchscreen infotainment system takes centre stage, complemented by a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Add features like rear AC vents, ambient lighting, a flat rear floor, integrated armrest, and extended thigh-support seats, and suddenly the Punch feels less “small SUV” and more “compact luxury lounge.”
The 90-degree door opening also deserves a quiet round of applause—because climbing in and out should not feel like a yoga pose.
Powertrains That Finally Live Up to the Name
The New Punch now truly punches above its weight. For enthusiasts, Tata introduces a segment-leading 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine producing 120 PS and 170 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. City sprints feel quicker, highway overtakes feel calmer, and the Punch finally lives up to its name in more ways than one.
For efficiency seekers, Tata continues its innovation streak with India’s first SUV to offer CNG with AMT. Yes, automatic convenience meets CNG efficiency—no clutch leg complaints, no compromise on practicality, and a clever twin-cylinder setup that keeps boot space usable.
Tech That Actually Helps, Not Just Impresses
Technology in the New Punch isn’t about gimmicks—it’s about daily usability. A 360-degree HD surround-view system with blind-spot monitoring, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice-assisted electric sunroof, wireless charging, fast 65W Type-C charging, and iRA 2.0 connected car tech with over 50 features make everyday driving smoother and smarter.
Even small touches like rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming IRVM, and “follow-me-home” lamps add up to a more premium experience.
Safety: Still the Punch’s Strongest Hook
If there’s one area where the Punch never needed improvement, it was safety—and Tata hasn’t messed with that formula. Built on the Alfa-Arc architecture with extensive use of ultra-high-strength steel, the New Punch continues under Tata’s Safety Dome philosophy.
Six airbags come as standard, along with ESP, iTPMS, hill-hold and hill-descent control, SOS calling, LED fog lamps with cornering function, and a full suite of active and passive safety features. In short, the Punch remains the car you’d happily trust with your family—without needing crossed fingers.
Personas, Colours, and Choice Galore
The New Punch is offered across four personas—Smart, Pure, Adventure, and Accomplished—each catering to a different kind of buyer. The colour palette has also been refreshed with distinctive new shades like Caramel, Cyantafic, Bengal Rouge, and Coorg Clouds, alongside classic options like Pristine White and Daytona Grey.
The Final Word
The New Tata Punch doesn’t try to reinvent what already worked—it simply amplifies it. With stronger performance, smarter technology, improved comfort, and uncompromised safety, it grows up without losing its charm. It’s still approachable, still practical, but now noticeably more confident.
In short, the Punch has matured. And like any good upgrade story, it hasn’t forgotten where it came from—only how far it can now go.
