The Tata Altroz iCNG is addressing an issue that is still the major bane for CNG cars – the non-existent boot space. It would not be wrong to say that Tata Motors has found an innovative solution to this concern in the form of ‘Twin Cylinder Tech’. To understand for ourselves how well Tata Motors’ solution performs on the road, we drove the Tata Altroz ICNG in Goa in practical conditions. On highways, on fast flowing roads, on zigzag curves, and even on uphill slopes. But has it managed to rule out the no-trunk issue? Well, read further to know.
Tata Altroz iCNG Review: What’s new on the outside?
Tata Altoz is a crowd-puller with its attractive exteriors. The premium hatchback has been designed based on the brand’s IMPACT 2.0 design language. Hence, it symbolizes smooth lines and sharp features. The nose looks bold with balanced use of piano-black elements and chrome inserts. The slim upswept headlamps are another chic design element on the Altroz. The diamond-cut alloy wheels add to its charm.
At the rear, it gets a new “iCNG” badge. The rest of the bits on the exterior remain unchanged. Well, there’s no point in fixing what isn’t broken. The tail of the Altroz still looks fresh with clusters of piano-black elements. Also, Tata Motors has affixed a new 50 million sales milestone badge on the right side rear door.
Tata Altroz iCNG Review: Interior Changes?
The dashboard layout and interior theme have been retained in the Altroz iCNG. The dual-tone silver-grey interior theme looks premium. The seats of the Altroz ICNG are comfortable, and the space inside is good too. The main highlight here is the feature list, which is quite long and similar to the petrol/diesel variants of the car. Lastly, Tata Motors is offering the Altroz iCNG across all trim options. The premium hatchback gets a new instrument cluster, which has been sourced from the Tiago iCNG to keep costs down.
Also, there is no drive mode anymore, and there is no cruise control either. The premium hatchback now also gets a sunroof. Thus coming in as the only car in its segment to get a sunroof, along with the factory-fitted CNG kit. Apart from this, the sunroof can be controlled with voice commands.
There is no dearth of boot space in the Altroz iCNG either. With the cylinders housed in a cavity for the spare wheel, it maintains a usable boot space of 210 litres. Hence, in this regard, it is a practical pick over its rivals. The 7-inch touchscreen could be replaced with a bigger one with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Otherwise overall it is a great package.
Tata Altroz ICNG review: Performance
The Tata Altroz iCNG features the same 1.2L 3-cylinder NA petrol engine, which produces 88 PS against 115 Nm of max output in petrol mode, while in CNG mode, it develops 73.5 PS and 103 Nm of max output. The gearbox here is a 5-speed MT. Additionally, the Altroz iCNG is almost 100 kg heavier than the regular petrol Altroz. To handle this extra weight, it gets revised suspension components and reinforced monocoque around the rear. As a result, the ride is comfortable and there is no banging in the cabin. Dynamically, the Altroz iCNG continues to be a great product. It can be swerved in the streets, and there’s no dreaded body roll.
With the added weight the Altroz iCNG stalls on time as well. Power delivery in petrol mode is fine, while in CNG mode it feels adequate. However, cruising at triple digits is possible. The nature of the motor is the same on both the modes in terms of NVH levels, and the CNG-petrol transition remains seamless. However, compared to rivals, the engine sounds a bit rough, owing to its 3-cylinder architecture. On the plus side, it is torquey lower down the rev range.
Mileage is still uncounted, as the pumps in Goa could not provide enough pressure to fill the tanks properly. The Altroz could also start on CNG, and now it misses out on drive modes – City and Eco. Well, with the CNG kit the requirement becomes futile. Interestingly, the car now drives in City mode as standard. Hence, the drivability seems fine for the motor on offer.
Tata Altroz ICNG Review: Should You Buy One?
Starting at Rs 7.55 lakh (ex-showroom), the Tata Altroz ICNG is an innovative product in its segment. While it takes fuel efficiency to new heights, it does away with the challenges associated with CNG cars. The ride and driving dynamics are also top notch. Similarly, the feature list helps it live up to the premium hatchback stance. Thus, it will definitely fit like a glove for those looking for a CNG car that doesn’t feel rudimentary or cheap and copes well with the weekend stuff.