Tata Altroz XZA Plus S DCT: 5-Star Safety Premium Auto Under 11L

Advanced Safety Suite

Safety features include

- Dual Front Airbags

- ABS with EBD

- Corner Stability Control

- Rear Parking Camera with Guidelines

- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

While the airbag count is lower than some competitors, the Altroz boasts a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, underscoring its structural integrity.

Premium Convenience

The Altroz XZA Plus S DCT offers

- Push Button Start

- Cruise Control

- Cooled Glovebox

- Rain-Sensing Wipers

- Air Purifier

The 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission enhances daily drivability, particularly in urban environments.

Advanced Infotainment

The infotainment system features

- 10.25-inch Touchscreen (one of the largest in its class)

- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

- Voice Command functionality

- Bluetooth Connectivity

While impressive, the absence of a branded premium sound system is noticeable at this price point.

Performance and Efficiency

Engine Specifications

- 1.2L Revotron petrol engine

- 1199 cc, 3-cylinder configuration

- Power: 86.79 bhp @ 6000 rpm

- Torque: 115 Nm @ 3250 rpm

- Transmission: 6-Speed DCT

- Fuel Efficiency: ARAI-certified 18.5 kmpl (Dark Edition variant)

The powertrain offers a balanced performance-efficiency ratio, suitable for both city and highway driving.

Exterior Design and Styling

Key design elements include

- Distinctive shark nose-like front end

- LED Headlamps and DRLs

- 16-inch Alloy Wheels

- Optional dual-tone theme with black roof

Interior Design and Quality

The interior boasts

- Layered dashboard design with textured plastics and gloss finishes

- Flat-bottomed leather-wrapped steering wheel

- Turquoise backlighting for ambient atmosphere

- 7-inch digital instrument cluster

- Voice-assisted sunroof

While some hard plastics are present, the overall quality surpasses many competitors in this segment.

Space and Practicality

Practical features include

- 345-litre boot capacity

- 90-degree opening doors for easy access

- 15-litre cooled glovebox

- Multiple storage compartments

Ride and Handling

Suspension setup

- Front: Independent MacPherson Dual Path Strut

- Rear: Twist Beam with Coil Spring

The electric power steering is calibrated for ease of use in various driving conditions.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

- ARAI-certified efficiency: 18.5 kmpl

- Fuel tank capacity: 37 litres

Actual efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and style.

Technology and Innovation

Standout features

- Idle Start-Stop System for improved urban fuel efficiency

- Wearable Key for active lifestyles

- What3Words Navigation for precise location finding

Variant Comparison

Compared to lower variants, the XZA Plus S DCT offers

- Upgraded 10.25-inch touchscreen (vs. 7-inch in lower variants)

- Addition of sunroof

- Cruise control and rain-sensing wipers

- 6-speed DCT (vs. manual transmission in lower variants)

Pros and Cons

Pros

- Distinctive exterior design

- Spacious and practical interior

- Advanced infotainment system

- Smooth DCT transmission

- 5-star Global NCAP safety rating

Cons

- Limited engine power compared to some rivals

- Absence of leather upholstery and ventilated seats

- Only two airbags in top-spec variant

- Lack of ADAS features

Conclusion

The Tata Altroz XZA Plus S DCT presents a compelling package for families seeking a premium hatchback experience. Its strengths lie in its striking design, spacious interior, and advanced features. While it may not lead in all areas, its balanced approach to performance, efficiency, and practicality makes it a strong contender in the premium hatchback segment.