Mumbai: Tata Motors has given enthusiasts an early glimpse of the updated Punch, the popular micro-SUV that has been a sales powerhouse since its debut in 2021. The company released official teasers over the weekend, confirming that the facelifted model will make its full debut on January 13, with pricing and bookings likely to follow soon after.
This marks the first significant overhaul for the internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the Punch, bringing it closer in line with the electric Punch.ev while introducing some long-awaited upgrades under the hood, said a Tata Motors official.
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The teasers highlight a bolder front end, drawing clear inspiration from the Punch.ev. Expect vertically stacked LED headlights, a redesigned bumper with black cladding and integrated air curtains, and slim LED daytime running lights up top. The grille gets a fresh treatment, and new alloy wheel designs add a touch of sophistication to the sides.
At the rear, one of the standout changes is a connected LED tail-light setup, giving the compact SUV a wider, more premium stance. Tata has also hinted at new colour options, including a vibrant blue shade seen in the images.
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Inside, the cabin appears to borrow elements from Tata’s newer lineup. A two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, touch-based climate controls, and a fully digital instrument cluster are among the highlights. Higher variants could include a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and possibly even advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) – a segment-first if confirmed.
Perhaps the biggest news is the powertrain. Alongside the familiar 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol and CNG options, Tata is introducing a turbocharged petrol engine for the first time in the Punch. Teasers show it paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, promising more spirited performance to rival peppier competitors like the Hyundai Exter.
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The current Punch has held strong in a crowded segment, thanks to its rugged looks, five-star Global NCAP safety rating, and practical packaging. With rivals like the Hyundai Exter and upcoming refreshes in the pipeline, this update comes at the right time to keep the Punch competitive. Expect pricing to start around Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom), with a slight premium over the current range that tops out near Rs 10 lakh.
More details, including full specifications and variant breakdown, should emerge as we approach the January 13 unveil. In a market hungry for feature-loaded yet affordable SUVs, the refreshed Punch looks poised to deliver another strong blow.
