The Tata Tiago, particularly the facelifted version released in 2020, represents a significant entry for Tata Motors into the competitive subcompact hatchback segment. Primarily marketed in India, the Tiago aimed to provide an affordable, feature-rich, and stylish option for first-time car buyers and urban commuters. The 2020 facelift brought with it revised styling, improved safety features, and updates to the powertrain, solidifying its position as a popular choice in its domestic market. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Tiago provides insight into the evolving automotive landscape of emerging markets and Tata’s growing global ambitions. This article will focus on the 1.2L Revotron engine variant, producing 86 horsepower.
Tata Tiago (Facelift 2020) 1.2L Revotron: An Overview
The Tata Tiago, launched initially in 2016, was designed to replace the Tata Nano and offer a more modern and practical alternative. The 2020 facelift was a crucial update, addressing earlier criticisms and enhancing the vehicle’s appeal. The Tiago competes with other subcompact hatchbacks like the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, and Renault Kwid in the Indian market. It’s positioned as a value-for-money proposition, offering a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and essential features. The “Revotron” engine series, introduced with the Tiago, signified Tata’s commitment to developing more refined and efficient powertrains.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Tata Tiago (facelift 2020) 1.2L Revotron is a 1.2-liter, inline-3 cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine produces 86 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 113 Nm of torque (equivalent to 83.34 lb.-ft.) at 3300 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and boasts a power-to-liter ratio of 71.7 hp/l. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for city driving and occasional highway use. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The Tiago is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system contributes to improved fuel efficiency, a key selling point in a market sensitive to fuel costs. The BS6 emission standard compliance highlights Tata’s commitment to meeting stricter environmental regulations.
Design & Features
The Tata Tiago is a five-door hatchback with a seating capacity of five passengers. The 2020 facelift brought a more prominent front grille, redesigned headlights, and a revised bumper, giving the car a more contemporary look. The vehicle’s dimensions – 3765 mm in length (148.23 in), 1677 mm in width (66.02 in), and 1535 mm in height (60.43 in) – position it squarely within the subcompact hatchback category. A ground clearance of 170 mm (6.69 in) is beneficial for navigating the often-challenging road conditions found in India.
Inside, the Tiago offers a functional and reasonably well-appointed cabin. Safety features, particularly in the facelifted model, were enhanced to include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The Tiago’s interior prioritizes practicality and affordability, with features geared towards everyday usability. The available tire sizes range from 155/80 R13 to 175/60 R15, depending on the trim level, and are mounted on 13, 14, or 15-inch wheel rims. The steering system utilizes a rack and pinion setup with electric power steering for ease of maneuverability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tata |
| Model | Tiago |
| Generation | Tiago (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2L Revotron (86 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | BS6 |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 113 Nm @ 3300 rpm / 83.34 lb.-ft. @ 3300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Revotron |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 / 73.17 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| 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 |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l / 9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal |
| Length | 3765 mm / 148.23 in |
| Width | 1677 mm / 66.02 in |
| Height | 1535 mm / 60.43 in |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm / 94.49 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm / 6.69 in |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut, Coil spring, Torsion |
| 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 | 155/80 R13; 175/65 R14; 175/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 13; 14; 15 |
In conclusion, the Tata Tiago (facelift 2020) 1.2L Revotron is a compelling offering in the subcompact hatchback segment, particularly within the Indian market. Its combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and improved features makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. While not available in the US, the Tiago exemplifies the growing sophistication and competitiveness of the Indian automotive industry.
