Tata Punch Review 2025 – The Compact SUV That Packs a Punch for India

The Tata Punch is a small SUV that delivers big value for Indian buyers. It stands out with its rugged styling, surprising space, and multiple powertrain choices. In 2025, you can choose between petrol, factory-fitted CNG, or the Punch EV. That flexibility helps families, city dwellers, and eco-minded drivers all find what they need. Here’s a detailed review that covers design, space, features, engines, mileage, safety, and real-world usability on Indian roads.

Overview: What Makes the Tata Punch Special

The Punch sits below the Tata Nexon but feels much more than just a small SUV. Its high ride height, bold grille, and cladding give it confident road presence. Buyers appreciate its solid feel, practicality, and how easy it is to park and drive in busy city traffic—all while still handling highway speeds and rough patches when needed.

Quick Specifications (India, 2025)

Pricing and Variants in India

In India (as of mid-2025):

• Petrol variants start just above ₹6 lakh ex-showroom.
• The factory-fitted iCNG version begins around ₹7.3 lakh ex-showroom.
• The Punch EV starts at ₹9.99 lakh and goes up to ₹14.44 lakh, depending on battery size and trim level.

This range covers budgets from entry-level to premium compact EVs, giving buyers a lot of flexibility.

Design and Road Presence

The Punch features modern split headlamps, a bold grille, and chunky side cladding that makes it look sturdy and sporty. Short front and rear overhangs help when navigating speed bumps or tight parking spaces. The electric Punch EV keeps the same design but adds a cleaner front profile without a grille. Dual-tone paint and special editions like CAMO versions let you add personality.

Cabin Space and Practicality

Inside, the Punch is simple, solid, and built for real-world use. Seats are supportive, and the high seating position adds confidence behind the wheel. The 366-litre boot (as per ISO measurement) is one of the largest in its class, ideal for grocery runs or weekend luggage. Rear seat space is decent for adults, and entry/exit is easy—great if you often drive with elders or kids.

Also Read Citroën C3 Aircross Review 2025 – Spacious, Comfortable, and Made for Indian Roads

Features and Connectivity

Depending on the trim, the Punch offers:

• Smart touchscreen infotainment with smartphone connectivity.
• Semi-digital instrument cluster.
• Steering-mounted controls, and on higher trims: auto headlights, wipers, cruise control, and a sunroof.
• The Punch EV also adds larger screens, enhanced connected features, multi-level regeneration, and an electronic parking brake.

On higher trims, connected car tech lets you track the car and get alerts directly on your phone.

Engine Options, Performance & Mileage

Petrol (1.2-litre Revotron)

This petrol engine is refined and comfortable around town. The 5-speed manual feels light and manageable, while the AMT is smooth with gentle inputs. Expect mid-teens km/l in city driving, improving on the highway.

iCNG (Petrol + CNG)

The factory-fitted CNG version offers low running costs—around 26–27 km/kg in certified figures. The CNG version delivers slightly less power and needs careful overtaking, especially under load. However, it offers substantial savings for daily commuters.

Punch EV (25 kWh “Medium Range” & 35 kWh “Long Range”)

The electric variant brings two battery options:

• Medium Range (MR): ~315 km claimed.
• Long Range (LR): ~421 km claimed.
  In real traffic, expect 200–320 km, depending on speed, AC usage, and battery choice. The preferential torque from the electric motor makes city driving feel smooth and relaxed.

Ride Comfort and Handling

The Punch rides confidently on Indian roads, absorbing potholes and city bumps with ease. The steering is light at low speeds and firm enough on highways. The EV version is quieter and even more refined, thanks to its electric powertrain and lack of engine noise. All versions stay stable at speeds up to 100–120 km/h.

Safety You Can Count On

Safety is a major Plus for the Punch. It earned a 5-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests (earlier protocols). On newer models, you get dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX mounts. The EV and higher petrol/CNG trims also include rear parking sensors and a camera. Its strong steel structure gives extra protection.

Ownership and Running Costs

• Petrol variant suits moderate monthly running. Service intervals and parts are affordable.
• CNG variant is the most cost-effective if there’s a reliable CNG station near you.
• EV variant has the lowest per-kilometre running cost if you can charge at home. You’ll also get free charging coupons and subsidies in some states.
  Spare parts and accessories are widely available across India. EV versions mainly need tyre care and brake checks due to low mechanical wear.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Rugged styling and SUV-like stance.
• Spacious boot and easy packaging.
• Safety rated 5 stars.
• Fuel options for every budget – petrol, CNG, electric.
• EV variant brings quiet comfort and low running costs.

Cons:

• Petrol is refined, but not sporty.
• CNG version senses a bit underpowered when fully loaded.
• Punch EV’s real-world range drops on highways.
• Top trims overlap in price with bigger compact SUVs.

FAQs

Conclusion

The Tata Punch 2025 is a standout in the micro SUV segment. It combines rugged looks, smart packaging, and flexible powertrain choices to suit every lifestyle. Whether you want affordable city running with CNG, simplicity with a petrol AMT, or future-ready silent driving with an EV, the Punch covers all bases. With its strong safety record, practicality, and easy driving dynamics, the Punch is a smart pick for Indian buyers who want SUV appeal in a city-friendly size.

Author- Ayush