Tata Punch Smart CNG 2026 Variant Walkaround Review
Tata Motors has officially launched the facelifted Tata Punch in the Indian market. In this article, we are taking a detailed look at the most affordable and base variant, known as the Tata Punch Smart. The model covered here is the CNG variant, which focuses on value, safety, and daily usability.
This is a complete walkaround review covering engine options, exterior updates, interior layout, safety features, boot space, and pricing.
Engine and Transmission Options
The Tata Punch facelift continues with the same proven petrol engine setup.
Engine details
1.2 litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
Same engine used across Punch lineup
Transmission options in Smart variant
5 speed manual transmission
Factory fitted CNG option
In this article, the focus is on the Smart CNG variant, which is aimed at buyers looking for lower running costs.
Exterior Design and Changes
Front Design
The front end receives noticeable updates with the facelift.
Key exterior highlights
New reflector based LED headlamps
Low beam and high beam integrated in one unit
Follow me home headlamp function available
No fog lamps in Smart variant
Halogen turn indicators
Front grille and bumper
New slim front grille
Gloss black finish
Tata logo placed at the center
Redesigned front bumper
Black bumper cladding
Silver finished skid plate
CNG badging is placed on the front windshield, indicating the fuel type clearly.
Side Profile
The side profile remains rugged and practical.
Side highlights
15 inch steel wheels
No wheel covers in base variant
Tyre size: 185/70 R15
Front disc brakes
Rear drum brakes
Ground clearance: 193 mm
Additional details
Black body cladding across sides
Matte black A and B pillars
Dual tone finish on C pillar
Front door handles in unpainted black
Rear door handles neatly integrated
ORVMs in matte black finish
Turn indicators mounted on ORVMs
Not offered
Roof rails
Antenna
Request sensors
Rear Design
The rear design is simple and functional.
Rear features
Compact tail lamp design
Halogen turn indicators
Middle portion does not light up
iCNG badging
Punch branding at center
Tata logo below branding
No rear wiper, washer, or defogger
High mounted stop lamp
Small spoiler style extension
Black rear bumper with silver skid plate
Parking and lighting
Two rear parking sensors
No rear camera
Halogen reverse light
LED number plate lights
Fuel and CNG refilling ports are integrated on the left side for convenience.
Interior Overview
Door and Cabin Access
All four doors open up to 90 degrees
Easy entry and exit for all passengers
Driver Side Door Features
Controls and storage
Power windows only for front doors
Manual ORVM adjustment
Black interior door handles
Small storage pocket
Bottle holder and umbrella holder
No speakers or tweeters
Front Seats and Safety
Seat details
Fabric upholstery
All black interior theme
Driver seat not height adjustable
Manual recline and reach adjustment
Adjustable headrests
Safety
Six airbags standard across all variants
Airbag badging on pillars and seats
Seat belts are not height adjustable
Steering Wheel
New two spoke steering wheel
Flat bottom design
Tata logo is printed, not illuminated
No steering mounted controls
Tilt adjustment only
Instrument Cluster
A fully digital instrument cluster is offered.
Information displayed
Digital speedometer
Odometer
Trip A and Trip B
Outside temperature
iTPMS with individual tyre pressure display
CNG fuel level
Petrol fuel level
Tachometer
This is a strong feature for a base variant.
Infotainment and Dashboard Layout
No factory fitted infotainment system
Aftermarket installation possible
Dashboard elements
Two central AC vents with gloss black surround
Hazard light button in the center
Manual AC with three rotary knobs
Mobile storage space
12V charging socket
Two cup holders
Manual handbrake with chrome tip
Material quality
Hard plastic dashboard
Dark grey accents
Decent glove box storage
Additional open storage areas
Other interior features
Front LED cabin light
Passenger airbag status indicator
No day night IRVM
Co driver sun visor without vanity mirror
Driver sun visor with ticket holder
Second Row Seating and Comfort
Door and Controls
90 degree opening doors
Manual window controls
No rear power windows
No speakers
Bottle holders provided
Rear Seat Details
Seat features
Black fabric upholstery
Fixed headrests
No center armrest
Bench folding rear seat
ISOFIX child seat mounts
3 point seat belts with reminder
Not offered
Seat back pockets
Rear AC vents
Rear reading lamp
Space and Comfort
With a driver height of 6 feet 2 inches:
Good knee room
Adequate legroom
Decent thigh support
Sufficient headroom for tall passengers
Overall space is suitable for city and highway use.
Boot Space and Practicality
The boot can be opened electronically using a button.
Boot details
Boot space: 210 litres in CNG variant
Twin cylinder CNG technology
Two CNG cylinders placed under the boot floor
Important points
No spare wheel provided
Tyre puncture repair kit is included
No parcel tray
Rear seats are bench folding
No 60:40 split
Despite the CNG setup, Tata has managed to retain usable boot space.
Pricing Details
The Tata Punch Smart facelift is available in two options.
Ex showroom prices
Smart Petrol Manual: ₹5.99 lakh
Smart CNG Manual: ₹6.99 lakh
These are introductory ex showroom prices for India.
Final Thoughts
The Tata Punch Smart facelift focuses on:
Strong safety with six airbags as standard
Practical CNG option
Rugged design
Digital instrument cluster even in base variant
While features like infotainment, rear power windows, and rear AC vents are missing, the Smart variant still delivers solid value for buyers prioritising safety, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
