With the advent of BS-VI emission norms,
many manufacturers decided to forgo diesel versions of popular models in the
country. While the company
did introduce updated 2020MY versions of these cars earlier this year, they
left out one key component - a diesel mill. However, some recent spy shots have
caught a completely camouflaged version of the latest Tata Tiago undergoing
developmental tests in Tamil Nadu. This was exactly where pictures of the
upcoming Tata Altroz turbo petrol variants were taken being tested as well.
Now before we delve deeper into what model
this could be, let’s rule out the possibilities. With Tata’s joint venture with
Jayem Automobiles dropped and no indications of high-performance upgrades, it
is safe to rule out the possibility of a BS-VI Tiago JTP. Also, with clear
signs of exhaust tips jutting out the back, this isn’t the Tiago EV being
tested either. So all this leaves the possibility of an updated diesel engine
being contemplated for the Tiago and Tigor lineup.
While upgrades to the BS-4 1.05-litre
Revotorq engine were too expensive and provided no real benefit over the BS-6
Revotron petrol engine, the unit on test could very well be the updated
1.5-litre BS-6 Revotorq unit. This engine can be found doing duty under the
hood the Tata Altroz and Tata Nexon as well. However, there is also a
possibility of an entirely new powertrain being tested and evaluated for the
Tiago and Tigor lineup.
The BS-VI petrol version of the 2020 Tata
Tiago was launched at the start of the year, and retails with a starting price
tag of INR 4.6 lakh (ex-showroom). Powering the car is a 1.2-litre engine which
is capable of developing 84 bhp and 113 Nm of torque. With a full tank, it has a
driving range of 693 km, taking into account a claimed fuel efficiency of
19.8 kmpl.
