Tata Motors has managed to muscle its way to the top as the Punch became the number-one-selling vehicle in March 2024. This could probably be the first time that the top two spots are occupied by non-Maruti Suzuki vehicles and SUVs. The runners-up place went to the Hyundai Creta, one of the most successful midsize SUVs in the market. In many ways, we are witnessing history in the making as the Punch and the Creta sold 17,547 and 16,458 units respectively.
Here are five reasons, why the Tata Punch is the number one SUV in India.
Tata Punch: Not your typical ‘wannabe’ SUV
Time after time, we have seen many automobile manufacturers use the nip-and-tuck job formula by introducing a hatchback on stilts and then passing it off as an SUV. Thankfully, Tata Motors built the Punch from the ground up and is based on the ALFA platform like the Altroz.
Apart from its road presence, the Punch is the tallest micro SUV in its segment with a ground clearance of 187 mm and 370 mm water wading capacity. Furthermore, the micro SUV can tackle challenging trails with an approach angle of 20.3 degrees and a departure angle of 37.6 degrees. According to Tata Motors, the Punch’s ramp over angle is 22.2 degrees.
Tata Punch: Gaining traction like no other
If you thought that the features mentioned above are what makes the Tata Punch a capable micro SUV then you have a unique thing coming. The Punch is the only 5-speed AMT vehicle to be equipped with traction control. So may it be slush or muddy terrains, the Punch can get itself out of these challenging driving situations. The electronic system automatically detects a tyre losing grip and sends traction to the other wheel so that it can drive out of such conditions.
Tata Punch: Safety par excellence
Tata Punch is the safest vehicle in its segment as it was awarded a 5-star Global NCAP safety crash test rating in 2021. What is even more impressive is that the Punch scored a five-star rating in the adult occupant category and three for child safety. To up the ante, Tata Motors has equipped the SUV with the sway control function, which is a first in the segment. This function ensures the vehicle remains stable and in control when brakes are slammed hard due to an emergency. Sway control comes standard along with ABS and EBD, twin airbags, fog lamps with cornering function, reverse parking camera, automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers.
Tata Punch: Feature laden
The top variant of the Punch boasts 16-inch alloy wheels, which is a first in the segment, projector headlights with LED DRLs and 90-degree opening doors making it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. The Punch received an update last year and is now available with a voice-assist electric sunroof, leather-wrapped steering and gear knob and a driver’s armrest. It also offers a new seven-inch Harman infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play and a six-speaker music system. Tata Motors’ in-house connected technology is also available in the top variant.
Tata Punch: Price
Tata Punch is available in two versions — petrol and CNG. The petrol is available in both 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT with 11 and 10 variants respectively. The CNG, on the other hand, is available in five trims. The petrol manual’s price range is from Rs 6.13 lakh to Rs 9.60 lakh, ex-showroom. The AMT starts from Rs 7.60 lakh to Rs 10.20 lakh, ex-showroom. The Punch CNG begins from Rs 7.23 lakh to Rs 9.85 lakh, ex-showroom.