2021 Tata Punch review, road test

A hatchback with SUV pretensions isn’t unusual, but the Tata Punch packs in some of the attributes you’d associate with the SUV body style. It’s got the elevated seating and ample ground clearance, and more importantly, it boasts of a tough build. Adding to its SUV credentials is the AMT’s Traction Pro feature that allows it to tackle some hostile conditions with relative ease. What’s more is that it drives like a more mature, premium car. In other areas, too, the Tata has a lot going for it – it is stylish on the outside, cheerful on the inside, packs in adequate space and practicality, as well as a reasonable equipment list. Having been awarded five stars in Global NCAP crash tests also speaks highly of its build and safety.

Its engine performance is satisfactory at best, and its AMT gearbox could have been more intuitive, but its light controls, good visibility and decent city performance are likely to appease most buyers. What could be a deal-breaker, however, is its ambitious pricing, which overlaps with larger, better-equipped turbo-petrol compact SUVs, placing it in the price territory of more competent cars. On the whole, there's no doubt that it's a competent car, but it comes across as a bit pricey.