The launch of the Tata Punch EV has expanded the carmaker’s portfolio with a total of four vehicles, being offered in ICE and all-electric versions. For Tata, this caters to a wide audience, however, for a car buyer, it can be a bit confusing, especially given a choice between EV and ICE. So if you’re in the market looking for a Tata Punch, here’s a comparison between the ICE and EV versions to help you make the choice.
Design
The Tata Punch EV and the ICE versions have distinctive designs, making them stand out. One can instantly make out the difference between the two as the ICE version of the Punch features the DRL that has a step-down, while the EV version gets a straight design. The other notable setup is the front headlight design as the Punch EV borrows Tata’s new design language from the Harrier and Safari.
The front grille is also different, as the ICE version has a larger opening to cool the engine and radiator while the EV version has only the lower section open. Towards the rear, both look identical, apart from the Punch.ev badging seen on the boot of the electric Punch.
Engine specifications
Obviously, this is the biggest difference between the two. The Tata Punch ICE is available with a single 1.2-litre petrol engine mated to a manual or an AMT gearbox. The engine makes 87bhp and 115Nm of torque, while the optional factory-fitted CNG version makes 72bhp and 103Nm of torque.
The electric version of the Punch is available with two battery pack options. The first is a 25kWh choice that offers a range of 315km, while it can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 13.5 seconds. The second battery pack on offer is a 35kWh unit which offers a range of 421km, while it can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 9.5 seconds.
Interior and features
Stepping inside, the two vehicles are as different as they can be. The ICE version gets a single floating infotainment system, air vents with coloured highlights, a semi-digital dashboard, a spoke steering wheel, a sunroof, and more. The Punch EV has a similar design to the Nexon EV, with touch-operated controls, dual TFT screens, smartphone connectivity, and much more.
On the safety front, the Punch EV and ICE versions offer a lot, and the top-spec models get ABS, EBD, hill start assist, 6 airbags, reverse camera, connected car tech, ISOFIX seat mounts, and more. The ICE version is already 5-star safety rated.
So which one should you buy?
The choice depends on you, as the user. The ICE version is a tried and tested format, however, the EV versions have a decent range for city usage and short highway trips. Also, the latter looks more premium compared to its ICE sibling. If city commutes are the primary goal, we suggest the Punch EV.