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What to expect from the Tata Punch facelift

The 2026 Punch will receive cosmetic and feature updates; no mechanical changes expected.
3 min read29 Dec '25
Suraj ViswanathanSuraj Viswanathan
6K+ views
2026 Tata Punch spied

The Tata Punch received its first update in September 2024, but those changes were restricted to the shuffling of some trim levels and their equipment list. Since then, test mules of the Punch facelift have been spotted on public roads, with the latest spy shots surfacing around Christmas 2025. While Tata Motors is yet to officially disclose details, here’s all that we know about the 2026 Tata Punch.

1. What will the exterior of the Tata Punch facelift be like?

Likely to borrow some styling cues from the Punch EV.

2026 Tata Punch spied side profile

In terms of its exterior styling, the 2026 Tata Punch will look a lot more modern than the existing (pre-facelift) model. The latest spy shots show the camouflaged test mule featuring a revised front grille and a proper lower air dam, along with new headlights that look similar in design and layout to those found on the Punch EV. The Punch facelift is also expected to get the latter’s sleek daytime-running lights, minus the connected LED element.

What to expect from the Tata Punch facelift

The upright side profile with its short overhangs will be carried over sans major changes, but the 2026 Punch is expected to get a new design for its alloy wheels, especially on the top variants. Tata is also likely to offer the updated Punch with new colours, with the contrasting white or black roof options, depending on the trim level. The new spy shots just about reveal a blue exterior colour under the camouflage (which could be a new option), along with the obvious white roof. While it looks like a lighter shade than the existing model’s Tornado Blue, that appearance may be due to the harsh lighting. Rounding off the exterior updates on the Punch facelift would be a revised rear bumper with faux skid plates.

2. What new interior features are expected with the Tata Punch facelift?

A slight redesign and an updated feature set would improve the overall experience.

Tata Altroz facelift interiorTata Altroz facelift’s interior shown for representation.

Those stepping into the cabin of the 2026 Tata Punch can expect to find a new two-spoke steering wheel with the brand’s illuminated logo in the centre. Higher trims could get a fully digital instrument cluster, possibly the 10.25-inch unit that is fitted to the Altroz facelift (or perhaps like the one in the Punch EV). Another feature likely to be lifted from these cars is the ‘phygital’ HVAC panel, operated using touch-sensitive buttons and two physical toggles.

Higher trims of the 2026 Punch could also get ventilated front seats. These are already available on the Punch EV and would certainly be a welcome addition in the ICE version. While cruise control and a reversing camera are offered in the existing model, the Punch facelift could add a 360-degree camera as well. Its other features will include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, automatic climate control with rear vents, a voice-assisted sunroof, auto-folding outside rearview mirrors (ORVMs) and a cooled glove box.

3. What engine options will the Tata Punch facelift get?

Existing engine and transmission options to be carried forward.

Tata Punch petrol enginePre-facelift Tata Punch engine bay shown for representation.

Even though the 2026 facelift will feature more substantial updates than those introduced in 2024, it will retain the existing model’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated Revotron mill produces nearly 88hp and 115Nm in its petrol-only avatar, with the output dropping to 73.5hp and 103Nm in the CNG model. While the latter is only available with a 5-speed manual gearbox, the Punch petrol variants are also available with a 5-speed AMT.

4. What is the expected price of the 2026 Tata Punch?

Based on the variant, the Punch facelift may roughly cost Rs 20,000-50,000 more.

The pre-facelift Punch is priced between Rs 5.50 lakh for the base Pure trim and Rs 9.30 lakh for the CNG Accomplished + S trim with the Camo option. The updated Tata Punch is expected to launch in the first half of 2026, starting from around Rs 6 lakh for the base variant and stretching to around Rs 9.50 lakh at the top end. While the September 2025 GST 2.0 rollout helped make the Punch more affordable, its prices are bound to go up, especially due to the facelift and rising input costs.

5. Which cars will rival the 2026 Tata Punch?

The primary rivals of the 2026 Tata Punch include the Citroen C3, Maruti Suzuki Ignis and Hyundai Exter. Higher variants of the Punch also compete against the lower and mid-spec variants of the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Maruti Suzuki Fronx and Toyota Taisor.

All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.

Latest spy images by Navin

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