The Tata Altroz, launched by Tata Motors on January 22, 2020, has redefined the premium hatchback segment in India with its bold design, robust safety features, and versatile powertrain options. Positioned as a direct competitor to stalwarts like the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai i20, and Toyota Glanza, the Altroz stands out with its sharp styling, spacious interiors, and a coveted five-star Global NCAP safety rating. Built on the innovative ALFA (Agile Light Flexible Advanced) architecture, this hatchback blends practicality with modernity, appealing to urban families and driving enthusiasts alike. With a range of petrol, diesel, and CNG variants, including the sporty Altroz Racer, Tata Motors has crafted a vehicle that caters to diverse customer needs while emphasizing affordability, fuel efficiency, and cutting-edge features.
The Altroz is more than just a car—it’s a statement of Tata’s resurgence in the passenger vehicle market. Its futuristic design, inspired by the 45X concept, features sleek lines, a floating bonnet, and a sporty stance that turns heads on the road. Inside, the cabin offers a premium experience with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats (in top trims), and thoughtful touches like 90-degree opening doors for easy access. Available in multiple variants and fuel options, the Altroz provides flexibility for buyers seeking a balance between performance, economy, and safety. This detailed product overview dives into its technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and a comprehensive analysis of its standing among competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Tata Altroz comes equipped with three distinct engine options—a naturally aspirated petrol, a turbo-petrol (exclusive to the Racer), and a diesel—alongside a CNG variant for eco-conscious buyers. Below is a detailed tabular breakdown of its technical specifications, sourced and verified from platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale as of March 23, 2025.
| Parameter | 1.2L Revotron Petrol | 1.2L Turbo-Petrol (Racer) | 1.5L Revotorq Diesel | 1.2L i-CNG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.2L 3-Cylinder NA Petrol | 1.2L 3-Cylinder Turbo Petrol | 1.5L 4-Cylinder Turbo Diesel | 1.2L 3-Cylinder CNG |
| Displacement | 1199 cc | 1199 cc | 1497 cc | 1199 cc |
| Max Power | 86.79 bhp @ 6000 rpm | 118.35 bhp @ 5500 rpm | 88.76 bhp @ 4000 rpm | 72.41 bhp @ 6000 rpm (CNG) |
| Max Torque | 115 Nm @ 3250 rpm | 170 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm | 200 Nm @ 1250-3000 rpm | 103 Nm @ 3300 rpm (CNG) |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual / 6-Speed DCT | 6-Speed Manual | 5-Speed Manual | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol | Diesel | Petrol + CNG |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 19.33 kmpl (MT) / 18.5 kmpl (DCT) | 18.5 kmpl | 23.64 kmpl | 26.2 km/kg (CNG) |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Suspension (Front) | Independent MacPherson Strut | Independent MacPherson Strut | Independent MacPherson Strut | Independent MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension (Rear) | Twist Beam with Coil Spring | Twist Beam with Coil Spring | Twist Beam with Coil Spring | Twist Beam with Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Drum | Disc / Drum | Disc / Drum | Disc / Drum |
| Tyre Size | 165/80 R14 or 185/60 R16 | 185/60 R16 | 185/60 R16 | 165/80 R14 or 185/60 R16 |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm | 165 mm | 165 mm | 165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 37 L | 37 L | 37 L (Petrol) + 60 L (CNG) |
| Boot Space | 345 L | 345 L | 345 L | 345 L (reduced with CNG kit) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 3990 mm x 1755 mm x 1523 mm | 3990 mm x 1755 mm x 1523 mm | 3990 mm x 1755 mm x 1523 mm | 3990 mm x 1755 mm x 1523 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2501 mm | 2501 mm | 2501 mm | 2501 mm |
Variants
The Tata Altroz offers an extensive range of variants to suit different budgets and preferences. Below is a tabular representation of its key variants across petrol, diesel, CNG, and the Racer editions, based on the latest updates from CarDekho and Tata Motors’ official site.
| Variant | Fuel Type | Transmission | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| XE | Petrol / CNG | Manual | Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD, Power Windows, 165/80 R14 Tyres |
| XM / XM S | Petrol / CNG / Diesel | Manual | 7-inch Touchscreen, Rear Parking Sensors, Remote Keyless Entry |
| XM+ / XM+ S | Petrol / CNG / Diesel | Manual | Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, Steering-Mounted Controls, Wheel Covers |
| XT | Petrol / Diesel | Manual | Automatic Climate Control, Alloy Wheels, Cruise Control |
| XZ | Petrol / Diesel / CNG | Manual | 10.25-inch Touchscreen, Push-Button Start, Rear AC Vents |
| XZ LUX | Petrol / Diesel / CNG | Manual | Leatherette Seats, Ambient Lighting, 360-Degree Camera |
| XZ+ S | Petrol / Diesel / CNG | Manual | Sunroof, Wireless Charger, 8-Speaker Harman Audio |
| XZ+ S LUX | Petrol / Diesel / CNG | Manual | Ventilated Seats, Air Purifier, iRA Connected Tech |
| XZ+ OS | Petrol / CNG | Manual | Dark Edition Styling, Enhanced Safety Features |
| XMA+ / XTA / XZA (DCT) | Petrol | 6-Speed DCT | Same as Manual Counterparts + DCT Convenience |
| Racer R1 | Turbo-Petrol | 6-Speed Manual | Turbo Engine, Sporty Styling, 10-inch Touchscreen, 6 Airbags |
| Racer R2 | Turbo-Petrol | 6-Speed Manual | Adds Sunroof, Wireless Charger, 360-Degree Camera |
| Racer R3 | Turbo-Petrol | 6-Speed Manual | Ventilated Seats, HUD, Premium Interiors |
Price in Metro Cities
The pricing of the Tata Altroz varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table reflecting the ex-showroom prices and approximate on-road prices as of March 23, 2025, sourced from CarWale, CarDekho, and ZigWheels. Note that prices may fluctuate based on offers and dealer discounts.
| Variant | Delhi (Ex-Showroom / On-Road) | Mumbai (Ex-Showroom / On-Road) | Bangalore (Ex-Showroom / On-Road) | Kolkata (Ex-Showroom / On-Road) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XE (Petrol) | ₹6.65 L / ₹7.52 L | ₹6.65 L / ₹7.77 L | ₹6.65 L / ₹8.13 L | ₹6.65 L / ₹7.60 L |
| XM+ S (CNG) | ₹8.50 L / ₹9.60 L | ₹8.50 L / ₹9.85 L | ₹8.50 L / ₹10.20 L | ₹8.50 L / ₹9.70 L |
| XT (Diesel) | ₹9.50 L / ₹10.80 L | ₹9.50 L / ₹11.00 L | ₹9.50 L / ₹11.40 L | ₹9.50 L / ₹10.90 L |
| XZ+ S LUX (Petrol) | ₹10.50 L / ₹11.90 L | ₹10.50 L / ₹12.20 L | ₹10.50 L / ₹12.60 L | ₹10.50 L / ₹12.00 L |
| Racer R3 (Turbo-Petrol) | ₹11.00 L / ₹12.76 L | ₹11.00 L / ₹12.94 L | ₹11.00 L / ₹13.20 L | ₹11.00 L / ₹12.80 L |
| XZ+ S LUX (Diesel) | ₹11.30 L / ₹13.54 L | ₹11.30 L / ₹13.70 L | ₹11.30 L / ₹13.90 L | ₹11.30 L / ₹13.60 L |
About the Tata Altroz
Design and Build Quality
The Tata Altroz embodies a modern design philosophy that blends athleticism with elegance. Its exterior, inspired by the 45X concept, features a floating bonnet, swept-back projector headlamps, and a diamond-shaped grille that exudes confidence. The shooting comet beltline along the windows and hidden rear door handles mounted on the C-pillars give it a coupe-like silhouette, enhancing its road presence. Measuring 3990 mm in length, 1755 mm in width, and 1523 mm in height, the Altroz is the widest car in its segment, offering a stance that rivals SUVs. The dual-tone color options, such as Downtown Red with a black roof, add a youthful flair, while the 16-inch alloy wheels (on higher trims) complement its sporty character.
Underpinning this design is the ALFA architecture, which ensures a lightweight yet rigid structure. This platform contributes to its five-star Global NCAP rating, achieved in 2020, making it one of the safest hatchbacks in India. The energy-absorbing body structure, paired with standard dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and corner stability control, provides peace of mind. Higher variants add six airbags, ISOFIX mounts, and a 360-degree camera, reinforcing Tata’s safety-first approach. The build quality is robust, with minimal panel gaps and a solid feel, though some users note that the piano black exterior trim is prone to scratches.
Interior and Features
Step inside the Altroz, and you’re greeted by a spacious cabin that prioritizes comfort and practicality. The 90-degree opening doors—a segment-first feature—make ingress and egress effortless, especially for rear passengers. The cabin width translates to ample shoulder room, seating three abreast comfortably, while the 345-liter boot handles family luggage with ease. The dual-tone dashboard, accented with metallic finishes, houses a 10.25-inch floating touchscreen (in top trims) with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The 7-inch TFT digital cluster provides crisp driver information, and the flat-bottom steering wheel adds a sporty touch.
Feature highlights include automatic climate control, a sunroof, ventilated front seats (in XZ+ S LUX), and an 8-speaker Harman audio system that delivers punchy sound. The iRA connected car technology offers remote diagnostics and navigation, though some users report connectivity glitches. Rear AC vents, a wireless charger, and ambient lighting elevate the premium feel, but the lack of LED headlamps (projectors only) and a slightly firm rear seat cushioning are minor drawbacks. Overall, the Altroz’s interior strikes a balance between functionality and luxury, making it ideal for city commutes and long drives.
Powertrain and Performance
The Altroz’s powertrain lineup caters to varied driving preferences. The 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine (86.79 bhp, 115 Nm) is refined for daily use, with a smooth mid-range (2500-4500 rpm) and a light clutch. Paired with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed DCT, it offers 19.33 kmpl (manual) and 18.5 kmpl (DCT), though real-world figures hover around 13-15 kmpl in cities. The DCT provides smooth shifts for urban traffic, but lacks the zip for spirited driving. The 1.2L turbo-petrol in the Racer (118.35 bhp, 170 Nm) ups the ante with a 6-speed manual, delivering a punchy 0-100 kmph in around 11 seconds—perfect for enthusiasts—though it misses an automatic option.
The 1.5L diesel engine (88.76 bhp, 200 Nm) shines with its 23.64 kmpl mileage and torquey low-end, ideal for highway cruising. Its 5-speed manual is precise, but the lack of an automatic limits its appeal. The i-CNG variant (72.41 bhp, 103 Nm) uses a dual-cylinder system for seamless fuel switching, offering 26.2 km/kg—a boon for cost-conscious buyers. However, the added CNG weight slightly stiffens the ride. Across all variants, the 165 mm ground clearance and well-tuned suspension handle Indian roads adeptly, though low-speed ride quality feels firm.
Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality
The Altroz excels in ride and handling balance. Its suspension—MacPherson struts upfront and a twist beam at the rear—absorbs bumps effectively at higher speeds, while the stiffer rear tuning in CNG variants maintains composure. The electric power steering is light yet responsive, offering good feedback for city maneuvers and highway stability. Body roll is minimal, and the 185/60 R16 tyres (on higher trims) provide excellent grip. Braking, with front discs and rear drums, is confident, though some users desire all-disc brakes for added assurance.
At triple-digit speeds, the Altroz remains planted, thanks to its tall gear ratios and aerodynamic design. The diesel variant’s low-end torque makes overtaking effortless, while the turbo-petrol Racer adds a thrilling edge. However, the petrol NA engine feels underpowered on inclines, requiring frequent downshifts. Noise insulation is decent up to 100 kmph, beyond which engine noise creeps in, particularly in the petrol variants.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a cornerstone of the Altroz’s appeal. Its five-star Global NCAP rating—a rarity in the hatchback segment—comes from a robust chassis and standard safety kit. Even the base XE variant includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. Top trims add six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring, and a reverse camera, making it a top pick for safety-conscious buyers. Reliability-wise, Tata’s improved service network and affordable spares enhance ownership, though some owners report inconsistent service quality and higher maintenance costs compared to Maruti.
Close Competitors
The Tata Altroz competes fiercely in the premium hatchback segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its key rivals:
Maruti Suzuki Baleno
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is the segment leader, known for its fuel efficiency (22.35 kmpl petrol, 30.61 km/kg CNG) and extensive service network. Priced from ₹6.66 lakh to ₹9.88 lakh (ex-showroom), it undercuts the Altroz slightly. Its 1.2L petrol (88.5 bhp, 113 Nm) is peppier than the Altroz’s NA petrol, and the AMT option is smoother than the DCT. However, the Baleno’s three-star Global NCAP rating pales against the Altroz’s five-star, and its build feels less sturdy. Feature-wise, it offers a 9-inch touchscreen and head-up display, but misses ventilated seats or a sunroof.
Hyundai i20
The Hyundai i20 (₹7.04 lakh to ₹11.21 lakh ex-showroom) brings a premium vibe with its 1.2L petrol (87 bhp, 114.7 Nm) and 1.0L turbo-petrol (118 bhp, 172 Nm). Its IVT and DCT options outshine the Altroz’s DCT in refinement, and the 10.25-inch touchscreen with Bose audio rivals the Altroz’s setup. The i20’s four-star NCAP rating is strong, but it lacks the Altroz’s top-tier safety. The i20 edges ahead in cabin quality and features like a wireless charger, but its higher price and lower mileage (20.35 kmpl) give the Altroz an edge for value seekers.
Toyota Glanza
The Toyota Glanza, a rebadged Baleno, shares its 1.2L petrol (88.5 bhp, 113 Nm) and CNG option, priced from ₹6.86 lakh to ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom). It mirrors the Baleno’s efficiency and adds Toyota’s reliability badge. Features like a 9-inch touchscreen and head-up display are on par, but it lacks the Altroz’s safety credentials (three-star NCAP) and variant diversity. The Glanza’s softer ride suits city use, but the Altroz’s sharper handling and bolder design appeal to younger buyers.
Unique Selling Points of the Altroz
The Altroz shines with its five-star safety, versatile powertrains (including diesel and turbo options), and segment-first features like ventilated seats and 90-degree doors. Its competitive pricing and robust build make it a compelling alternative to the lighter, less safe competition. However, it trails in engine refinement and service reach compared to Maruti and Hyundai.
Final Thoughts!
The Tata Altroz is a well-rounded premium hatchback that blends style, safety, and versatility. Its five-star safety rating, spacious cabin, and feature-rich trims make it a standout choice for families and enthusiasts alike. While the Baleno leads in efficiency and service, the i20 in premium appeal, and the Glanza in reliability, the Altroz carves its niche with unmatched safety and a bold persona. With prices starting at ₹6.65 lakh and topping out at ₹11.30 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers excellent value, especially in metro cities where its CNG option and DCT convenience shine. For buyers prioritizing safety and individuality over sheer refinement, the Tata Altroz is a worthy contender in India’s crowded hatchback market.
