Tata Tiago XE

Namaste, car enthusiasts and future car owners! Buying a new car in India is a big decision, right? You think about your budget, how safe your family will be, what the monthly maintenance will cost, whether it has the latest features, and how good the company service is. It is a lot to consider!

Well, if you are looking for a car that ticks many of these boxes without breaking the bank, then the Tata Tiago XE might just be the one for you. As India's leading automotive journalist, I have driven and reviewed countless cars, and today we are taking a deep dive into the Tata Tiago XE, a popular choice in the compact hatchback segment. Let us find out if this entry-level Tiago is the perfect fit for your garage!

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Tata Tiago XE is powered by a reliable and fuel-efficient engine that is perfect for city driving and occasional highway runs.

• Engine Type: 1.2-litre Revotron Petrol
• Cylinders: 3-Cylinder
• Max Power: 86 PS at 6000 rpm
• Max Torque: 113 Nm at 3300 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual

Design Overview

Even in its base XE trim, the Tiago boasts a smart and appealing design that stands out in its segment.

• Exterior: The Tiago XE retains the stylish front grille with the signature humanity line, sharp headlamps, and well-proportioned body lines. It looks modern and sturdy. While it misses out on alloy wheels or fog lamps of higher variants, its overall shape gives it a confident road presence. It is a compact car that does not compromise on looking good.
• Interior: Inside, the Tiago XE offers a functional and comfortable cabin. The dashboard layout is clean and user-friendly. While it is a base model, the fit and finish are impressive for the price point. The seats offer decent support, making it comfortable for daily commutes. Space is good for four adults, though a fifth might find it a bit snug for longer journeys. The focus here is on practicality and durability.

Key Features (Tata Tiago XE)

As an entry-level variant, the Tiago XE focuses on essential features needed for daily driving. It might not have all the bells and whistles of top models, but it covers the basics well.

• Manual AC with Heater
• Power Steering
• Front Power Windows (Rear are manual)
• Tilt Adjustable Steering Wheel
• Digital Instrument Cluster
• Front and Rear Headrests
• Manual ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors)

Please note: Higher variants of the Tiago offer features like an infotainment screen, steering-mounted controls, automatic climate control, reverse camera, etc. The XE is designed for value-conscious buyers who prioritize safety and core functionality.

What is the Ground Clearance of Tata Tiago XE

• Ground Clearance: 170 mm

This is a respectable figure for Indian roads, helping it clear most speed breakers and potholes without scraping the bottom.

What is the Boot Space of Tata Tiago XE

• Boot Space: 242 Litres

This is adequate for a small family's weekend luggage or regular grocery runs.

What is the Dimensions of Tata Tiago XE

• Length: 3765 mm
• Width: 1677 mm (without ORVMs)
• Height: 1535 mm
• Wheelbase: 2400 mm

Its compact dimensions make it incredibly easy to maneuver in crowded city traffic and park in tight spots.

Powertrain Options

The Tata Tiago XE is offered exclusively with the 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Tata does offer a CNG variant in higher trims of the Tiago, but the XE is a petrol-only manual option.

Safety Features

Safety is a cornerstone for Tata Motors, and the Tiago XE does not compromise here. It comes with a strong set of standard safety features.

• Dual Front Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Corner Stability Control (CSC)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Seat Belt Reminder (Driver and Co-driver)
• Speed Alert System
• Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock

NCAP Rating Table

The Tata Tiago is one of the safest cars in its segment, a fact validated by independent crash tests.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP (Tested Jan 2020)	4 Stars	4 Stars

Note: As of now, the Tiago has not been rated under the new Bharat NCAP protocol. Its Global NCAP rating underscores its strong safety credentials.

Rivals of Tata Tiago XE

The Tata Tiago XE competes in a tough segment against some well-established players:

• Maruti Suzuki Celerio (LXi variant)
• Maruti Suzuki Wagon R (LXi variant)
• Renault Kwid (RXE variant)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros

• Unmatched Safety: The 4-star Global NCAP rating is a huge confidence booster, offering peace of mind that few rivals in this price range can match.
• Solid Build Quality: You can feel the robustness of Tata's build quality, which feels a segment above its competitors.
• Value for Money: For an entry-level car, it offers essential features and a strong safety package at a very competitive price.
• Good Driving Dynamics: The steering is light for city use, and the suspension handles bumps well, providing a comfortable ride.
• Stylish Design: Even in its base form, the Tiago looks modern and attractive, setting it apart from more basic-looking entry-level cars.

Cons

• Basic Features in XE Trim: Being the base model, it misses out on conveniences like a music system, rear power windows, central locking, or electrically adjustable ORVMs, which some buyers might desire.
• Engine Refinement: The 3-cylinder engine, while fuel-efficient, can feel a bit noisy and vibrate slightly at higher RPMs compared to some 4-cylinder rivals.
• Rear Seat Space: While adequate for four, seating three adults in the rear can be a tight squeeze on longer journeys.
• No Automatic Option: The XE variant is only available with a manual transmission, which might be a deal-breaker for those preferring an automatic for city driving.

Conclusion

So, is the Tata Tiago XE the right car for you? If you are a budget-conscious buyer looking for a safe, reliable, and stylish hatchback that handles city life with ease, then the Tiago XE is an excellent choice. It offers unmatched safety for its price point and provides all the essential features you need for everyday commuting. While it might lack some of the fancy tech found in higher variants or competitors, it more than makes up for it with its strong build, efficient engine, and robust safety package.

If you prioritize peace of mind, low running costs, and a car that feels sturdy on Indian roads, the Tata Tiago XE deserves a serious look. It is a smart buy that brings the trusted Tata name and its commitment to safety within reach of a wider audience. Go take a test drive and experience it for yourself!