The Tata Tiago 1.2 (85 Hp) is a subcompact hatchback manufactured by the Indian automobile manufacturer Tata Motors. Introduced in April 2016 and continuing in production through 2020, the Tiago represented a significant step forward for Tata in terms of design, build quality, and features. Primarily aimed at the Indian domestic market, the Tiago was designed to compete in the rapidly growing entry-level hatchback segment, offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and modern styling. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Tiago provides insight into the evolving automotive landscape of one of the world’s largest car markets and Tata’s ambitions to become a global automotive player.
The Tata Tiago 1.2: A Market-Focused Hatchback
The Tiago was conceived as a replacement for the Tata Nano and the Indica eV2, addressing criticisms leveled at those models regarding design and perceived quality. It was the first vehicle to be produced under Tata’s ‘Impact’ design language, which aimed to create more visually appealing and contemporary vehicles. The Tiago quickly gained popularity in India due to its competitive pricing, spacious interior for its class, and a relatively comprehensive feature list. It played a crucial role in revitalizing Tata’s brand image and increasing its market share in the highly competitive Indian automotive sector.
Engine & Performance
The Tata Tiago 1.2 is powered by a 1.2-liter, inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 85 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 114 Nm (84.08 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Power per liter is rated at 70.9 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The Tiago is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a maximum speed of 150 km/h (93.21 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.2 kg/Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l), making it a relatively economical option for urban commuting.
Design & Features
The Tata Tiago is a five-door hatchback with a relatively modern and stylish design for its price point. It offers seating for five passengers. The exterior design features a prominent front grille, swept-back headlights, and a relatively compact overall footprint. Inside, the Tiago offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for a subcompact hatchback. Features included, depending on the trim level, air conditioning, power steering, and an audio system. Safety features, while basic by modern standards, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Tiago’s interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a functional layout. Trunk space is rated at 242 liters (8.55 cu. ft.). The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 3746 mm (147.48 in.), width 1647 mm (64.84 in.), and height 1535 mm (60.43 in.). The wheelbase measures 2400 mm (94.49 in.), and the ride height (ground clearance) is 170 mm (6.69 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tata |
| Model | Tiago |
| Generation | Tiago |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (85 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2016 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 3500 rpm (84.08 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 930-1012 kg (2050.3 – 2231.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 242 l (8.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3746 mm (147.48 in.) |
| Width | 1647 mm (64.84 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Tata Tiago 1.2 (85 Hp) represents a pivotal moment for Tata Motors, demonstrating the company’s ability to produce a competitive and well-rounded vehicle for the mass market. While not available in the US, its success in India highlights the growing importance of emerging automotive markets and the increasing sophistication of Indian automotive manufacturing.
