- Tata updates its smallest SUV in India with new features.
- Facelifted Punch now offers a turbocharged 1.2L engine.
- Pricing starts at $6,200 and tops out around $11,700.
Tata’s latest update to the affordable Punch shows that even entry-level cars can offer more than the basics. The facelifted Punch features sharper styling and a more capable powertrain. Still, the real headline is the starting price at just Rs. 5.59 Lakh ($6,200), a reminder that in some countries, owning a car doesn’t have to come with a five-figure price tag.
Visually, the Punch takes after the larger Harrier, especially up front. The redesigned fascia now features a split LED headlight setup and a chunkier “Bull Guard Bumper” with pronounced plastic cladding and a silver skid plate.
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Around the back, a new “Infinity Glow” LED bar runs the width of the tailgate, linking the taillights. The rear bumper gets a cleaner, simpler look. Tata has also added new 16-inch alloy wheels and four fresh exterior color options, keeping the palette current.
Just like its predecessor, the facelifted Punch measures 3,827 mm (150.7 inches) long. However, it has a slightly increased ground clearance of 193 mm (7.6 inches) and a more respectable water wading figure of 400 mm (15.8 inches) allowing it to cope with India’s rough roads and challenging weather conditions.
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The interior looks familiar, but there are a few changes. The free-standing 10.25-inch infotainment is combined with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, sitting behind the redesigned two-spoke steering wheel. The climate controls on the center console are now touch-friendly, while the fabric-upholstered seats are said to offer more support.
As for equipment, the list includes a 360-degree camera, a sunroof, wireless charging, and an eight-speaker sound system. Advanced driver assistance systems are off the menu, but six airbags come standard.
A Punchier Turbo Engine
The biggest news for the mid-lifecycle update lies under the hood. The automaker has finally given the Punch the more potent turbocharged 1.2-liter engine from the slightly larger Nexon. It produces 118 hp (88 kW / 120 PS) and is exclusively mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
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For those with a tighter budget, the carry-over naturally aspirated 1.2-liter engine with 87 hp (65 kW / 88 PS) is still part of the lineup. The same applies to the bi-fuel version (gasoline and CNG), which has gained an automatic option. Finally, the fully electric Punch EV is also expected to benefit from a facelift in the near future.
How Much Does it Cost?
The 2026 Tata Punch is already available for order in India. Prices start at Rs. 5.59 Lakh ($6,200) for the entry-level Base variant, while the fully loaded Accomplished+ S tops out at Rs. 10.54 Lakh ($11,700). In terms of competition, the Punch goes up against rivals like the Suzuki Ignis, Hyundai Exter, Citroen C3, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite