Tata Zest XMS

The Tata Zest XMS Petrol is a top-of-the-line variant in the Zest lineup, offering a robust set of features and performance. Powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, it produces 89 bhp and 140 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The car boasts an expansive feature list, including projector headlamps, daytime running lamps, an 8-speaker Harman-developed audio system, and automatic climate control. The interior is spacious with ample legroom and shoulder room for rear occupants, along with a generous boot space of 390 litres. Safety features include dual airbags and parking sensors. The Zest also scored a respectable four-star rating in the Global NCAP crash test. Overall, it is a well-equipped and comfortable compact sedan that ticks many boxes for potential buyers.

The Tata Zest XMS Petrol is a well-rounded compact sedan that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and features, making it a compelling choice in its segment. Transitioning from older models like the Maruti Zen, the Zest stands out with its improved build quality and solid exterior construction. The cars balanced suspension provides a compliant ride quality, especially on bad roads, though it may exhibit a bit of boat mode on extremely rough terrain. The 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers linear power and almost non-existent turbo lag, enhancing the driving experience. However, the interior, while spacious and comfortable, feels a bit dated with hard plastics and a lack of storage spaces. The 8-speaker audio system and automatic climate control are notable positives. Overall, the Zest XMS Petrol is a value-for-money option, especially for those prioritizing comfort and a feature-rich package.

The Tata Zest XMS, a popular variant of the Zest, has been discontinued by Tata Motors as part of their broader strategy to phase out older models. This move comes after the Zest failed to meet the new BS6 emission norms. The last known price for the XMS variant was around Rs. 7.21 lakh. I think this is a significant step for Tata to focus on newer, more compliant models.

Tata Motors rolled out various offers on the Zest, including the XMS variant, in April, valid until the end of the month. These offers included benefits worth over Rs 50,000, making the vehicle more attractive to potential buyers. Such offers were common during festive seasons or to clear inventory. I think these offers helped in boosting sales temporarily.

Tata Motors launched the Zest Premio Edition, which is positioned between the XMS and XT variants. The Premio Edition, available only with the diesel engine, starts at Rs. 7.53 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and includes additional features like a touchscreen infotainment system with phone-based navigation. This edition was a strategic move to enhance the Zests appeal before its eventual discontinuation. I believe these additions made the Premio a compelling choice in its segment.

The Tata Zest XMS Quadrajet 75PS Diesel variant was known for its balanced set of features, including central locking, ABS, power steering, and all power windows. This variant also came with a 1.3-litre diesel engine producing 73PS and 190Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The XMS Quadrajet was a favorite among those seeking a blend of performance and comfort. I think the engines torque made it quite driveable in city conditions.

In terms of safety, the Tata Zest XMS scored a respectable four-star rating in the Global NCAP crash test. This was a significant achievement, highlighting Tatas focus on safety features such as dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and seat belts with pre-tensioner and load limiter. This rating boosted consumer confidence in the vehicle. I believe safety should always be a top priority, and Tata did well here.

The Tata Zest XMS Petrol is priced competitively in the Indian market. The ex-showroom price for this variant starts at around Rs. 6.70 Lakh. When you factor in the on-road costs, including registration, insurance, and other charges, the price can go up to approximately Rs. 8.5 Lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. This pricing makes the Zest XMS Petrol an attractive option for buyers looking for a feature-packed compact sedan without breaking the bank. The value proposition is further enhanced by the extensive list of features, including projector headlamps, daytime running lamps, and an advanced infotainment system.

The Tata Zest XMS Petrol offers a mileage of 17.57 kmpl, as per ARAI certification. In real-world conditions, you can expect this figure to be slightly lower, around 14-16 kmpl, depending on driving habits and road conditions. This mileage is respectable for a petrol-powered compact sedan, making it a viable choice for those concerned about running costs. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option in its class, the Zests overall package and performance make it a balanced choice.