Tata Indica (2018)

Expert Review by Maxabout

Almost after two years, Tata has re-launched the up-graded version of its new gen Indica eV2. The car gets cosmetic as well as technical changes and in this article, we try to know about the new changes in detail.

UPDATE (19th June, 2013) - Tata Motors has launched the 2013 Indica eV2 in Indian market. On the outside it features turn-indicators integrated into the outside rear-view mirrors plus all-new front grille plus chrome garnish. On the inside, it comes equipped with all-new 4-spoke steering wheel, dual-tone interiors, all-new fabric for seats, silver finish center console and electrically adjustable out-side rear-view mirrors. Technically, it features all-new suspension system (dual path) and new transmission system, which is now cable type, to reduce the vibrations and improve the gear-shifts. Tata also unveiled the CNG variant of 2013 Indica eV2 and it will be sold as ‘Indica eV2 eMax’.

Exterior

The face of the car receives the major changes. With new set of headlights, front grille and restyled bumper, the car now looks identical to its elder sibling. The twin barrel clear lens headlights with long stripe of orange colored side indicator looks attractive with its chrome finished multi-layered front grille. The restyled bumper also looks sharp and aggressive with edgy lines over it. The new air-dam is placed in the lower section of its front bumper and comes with integrated round shaped fog lights. Move to the side of this car and you will notice new set of 8-spoke alloy wheels which looks extremely sporty with decals on its side doors. The car features no wheel arches and looks elegant with body colored door handles and ORVMs with metal strips. The tail section of the car also gets a new body colored rear spoiler integrated with stop lamp. The sharp lines on its rear bumper and boot gate also look attractive while its tall tail lights give it a unique identity.

Interior

The new shadow beige interiors improve the aura inside this car. Its dual tone fabric seats and door trims inserted with fabric looks premium and make this car look different than before. The four-spoke steering wheel also looks attractive inside. The car is quite spacious for five people. There is enough head and shoulder room at its front. Its front seats are more comfortable than its rear seats as they lack under thigh support. Three full size adults can enjoy optimum shoulder and head room at the back.

Comfort and Convenience

The top variant of new Indica eV2 comes with modern features like power steering, powerful AC with heater, all four power windows, electrically adjustable ORVMs, rear defogger, adjustable front seats and headrests, keyless entry with remote boot opener.

Dashboard and Storage

The design and texture of the dashboard is nearly a decade old but to give it a fresh appeal, Tata has used the new shadow beige color which surely works. The circular dials in its instrument console for its analogue tachometer speedometer and fuel gauge is also placed on the dashboard. The silver finishing on its central console further enhances the beauty of this car. The lockable glove box is quite spacious and comes with two cup holders. The front door pockets can also be used frequently. Indica eV2 also has a rear parcel shelf for storage and comes with a boot capacity of 220 litres which can be increased by folding down its split rear seats.

Music System

Company now offers Indica eV2 with an integrated music system with 2 speakers. It’s a radio/MP3/CD player which comes with USB and Aux-in ports. The car is also enabled with Bluetooth connectivity.

Engine and Gearbox

Indica eV2 comes with one engine each of petrol and diesel. The 1.2L 4-cylinder MPFI engine generates a maximum power output of 65.3 bhp at 5000 rpm. The torque output of this liquid-cooled engine is of 99.8 Nm which is accessible at 2700 rpm. The diesel engine is the new 1.4L 4-cylinder common rail CR4 engine. This SOHC engine pumps out a power output of 70 bhp at 4000 rpm. The maximum torque output (140 nm) of this engine ranges from 1800-3000 rpm. Both engines are mated with a five-speed manual gearbox.

Acceleration and Performance

This new age Indica feels much better than before in terms of acceleration and performance. The car is now 10kgs lighter than before which helps it to get an impressive power to weight ratio. The petrol engine of the car feels quite powerful in city traffic. The instant throttle reaction and less gear shifts make it easy for you to drive this car. The 100Nm of torque starts coming as early as 2700rpm which helps it to reach 0-100km/hr in less than 15 seconds. The engine sounds quite refined and makes less noise at high rpms. The new CR4 diesel engine has also taken a big step forward. Tata has worked on the gear ratios and now you need to make less gear shifts. This motor feels quite confident at low rpms and starts pulling power as early as 1500rpm. Throttle reaction is much better than before and it feels less strained at high rpms. The car reaches 0-100km/hr in less than 14.5 seconds and records a top speed of 155km/hr.

Mileage and Safety Features

The CR4 engine may give you an overall fuel efficiency of around 15km/ltr while its petrol engine may return you a mileage of around 14km/ltr. The car comes with safety features like remote locking and collapsible steering.

Suspension and Brakes

The car features dual path suspension at its front and semi-independent shock absorbers at the back. It’s equipped with disc brakes at its front and drum brakes at the back.

Ride and Handling

The long wheelbase of 2400mm and ground clearance of 165mm makes this car stable at high speeds. The wider tyres also improve it handling around corners while its suspension system also gives you comfortable rides. The heavy steering stops you to move frequently in city traffic and comes with a minimum turning radius of 4.9m which makes it difficult for you to park this car at tight spaces.

Shades, Variants and Warranty

Indica eV2 is available in eight variants; four each of petrol and diesel. It’s available in five different shades and comes with a warranty of 2years/ 75000kilomters.

Verdict

New Indica eV2 ranges from INR 3.29 lakhs- 4.88 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi (approx., may vary)). We won’t recommend you its petrol version as there are many better options available at this price but we strongly believe its diesel engine makes it a complete value for money car. At this price, there is no other diesel car which is as powerful and spacious as this car. Moreover, the list of modern features proves to be a big advantage for this car. Yes, it’s not as refined and stylish as modern diesel cars but if you are looking for an economical option which can fit in your tight budget then you can opt for this car.