Tata Altroz DCT to launch this year

The Tata Altroz is a really important product for Tata that comes in the premium hatchback segment. It gets all the latest bells and whistles that are expected from a premium hatchback along with a distinctive design that is sure to attract people. It also created hype by being the second car ever that is made in India to get a five-star safety rating. The only negative was that it only got an AMT variant and it did not appeal to performance enthusiasts. Things are about to change with the introduction of the DCT variant in the Tata Altroz and an upgraded 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine.

Overview

In the recent sales figures, it was shown that the Altroz has not been doing as well when compared to rivals. The sales figures have not matched the expectations that were created when the car was launched. Tata needs to change things and therefore introducing a good automatic gearbox along with a more powerful engine could increase the sales performance of the car.

Tata Altroz DCT gearbox

A DCT gearbox means a dual-clutch transmission. Basically these gearboxes are superior to other gearboxes such as a CVT and an AMT. The shifting of gears is a much smoother and quicker process. It also translates into the better performance as the transmission can get the best out of the engine, thereby giving a better response. This gearbox will be offered only with new 1.2-litre turbo petrol which will also produce more power than the currently offered 1.2-litre petrol.

Tata Altroz DCT Engines

The Tata Altroz is currently offered in two engine options. They are the 1.2 petrol Revotron which produces 85 bhp and 113nm of torque. The other is a 1.5 litre diesel turbo Revotorq. The current petrol engine produces a power of 86 bhp. This new engine option will continue to get the five-speed manual gearbox. The DCT variant will be offered with new 1.2-litre turbo petrol. The exact specifications are unknown but this variant is expected to compete with the likes of the Polo GT and therefore will produce at least 100bhp in order to be competitive in the segment.

Pricing and competition

The Altroz DCT competes against other premium hatchbacks such as the Grand i10, the Maruti Suzuki Swift and the Volkswagen Polo. The car is currently priced from 5.30 lakhs- 9.35 lakhs(ex-showroom). The DCT version will be significantly higher priced than the AMT variants of the car. It is expected to launch around the festive season. Check out our review on the Tata Altroz below: