Tata Zest XM 90HP

The Tata Zest XM 90HP is a feature-packed compact sedan that caters to a wide range of needs. It comes with a 1.3-litre diesel engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, offering a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. The car boasts a range of features including projector headlamps, daytime running lamps, and an 8-speaker audio system. The interior is spacious, with comfortable seating for five and a large boot. Safety features include a four-star rating in the Global NCAP crash test and amenities like parking sensors. The ride and handling are commendable, with a balanced suspension providing a compliant ride quality. Overall, the Zest XM 90HP is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, feature-rich, and economical compact sedan in India.

The Tata Zest XM 90HP is a well-rounded compact sedan that offers a compelling package for those seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and features. The 1.3-litre diesel engine, producing 90PS and 190Nm of torque, is both powerful and efficient. The cars spacious interior, with ample legroom and shoulder room for rear occupants, along with a generous 390-litre boot space, makes it ideal for family use. The ConnectNext infotainment system by Harman is a standout feature, offering exceptional audio quality. However, the use of hard plastics in the cabin and the lack of storage spaces are notable drawbacks. Overall, the Zest XM 90HP is a value-for-money option, especially considering its solid build quality and compliant ride.

The Tata Zest XM 90HP, although discontinued in 2019, was known for its refined 1.2L turbo petrol engine producing 89PS of power and 140Nm of torque. This variant was popular for its smooth driving experience and decent fuel efficiency of 17.6 kmpl. I think this engine was one of the highlights of the Zest series, making it a favorite among those who valued performance and comfort.

Tata Motors launched various special editions of the Zest, but the XM 90HP variant remained a staple in the lineup for its performance and value. These special editions, like the Zest Premio, added cosmetic changes and additional features, but the XM 90HP retained its core appeal. I believe these special editions helped keep the Zest relevant in a competitive market.

In terms of safety, the Tata Zest XM 90HP came equipped with disc brakes in the front, drum brakes at the rear, ABS with EBD, and dual front airbags. This safety feature set was commendable for its segment and contributed to the Zest scoring a 4-star rating in the Global NCAP crash test. I believe these safety features were a significant selling point for the vehicle.

Despite being discontinued, the Tata Zest XM 90HP remains a notable model in Tatas history for its blend of performance, comfort, and features. It competed directly with other sub-4 meter sedans like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Honda Amaze, and at times, even outsold them. I believe the Zest was an important milestone for Tatas resurgence in the sedan segment.

The Tata Zest XM 90HP had a boot space of 390 liters, which was quite generous for its segment. This, combined with ample legroom and shoulder room for rear occupants, made it a practical choice for families. I think the spacious interior was a significant advantage for the Zest.

The Tata Zest XM 90HP is priced competitively in the Indian market. The ex-showroom price for this variant starts at around Rs 7.53 lakh in Delhi, though prices can vary slightly depending on the state due to different tax structures. On-road prices, including registration, insurance, and other costs, can range from Rs 8.5 lakh to Rs 9.2 lakh, depending on the location. This pricing makes the Zest XM 90HP an attractive option in the compact sedan segment, offering a good blend of features, performance, and affordability.

The mileage of the Tata Zest XM 90HP is one of its strong points. With a claimed mileage of 23 kmpl for the manual diesel variant, it is highly efficient for both city and highway driving. Real-world mileage, as reported by owners, can range from 20-22 kmpl on highways and around 18 kmpl in city traffic, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting and long drives.