A few weeks ago, we told you Tata Motors was all set to introduce the hotted-up Tiago JTP this Diwali as part of a four model launch plan this festive season. Now, we can tell you that it will be more powerful than everyone thought it’d be.
Speaking to Autocar India on the sidelines of the launch of the Tigor facelift, Mayank Pareek, President, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit at Tata Motors, confirmed it will run a more potent version of the Nexon's 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine.
“The car is similar to what you saw at the Auto Expo. The engine is tuned to be sportier. Power has been improved, and that much power in a car that small feels like a lot. I have driven it, and the roar from that engine is exceptional”, said Pareek.
When asked if the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol in the Tiago JTP will be more powerful than the 110hp/170Nm version powering the Nexon, Pareek's one-word reply was “Absolutely”.
Developed by Tata Motors in partnership with Coimbatore-based Jayem Auto, the Tiago JTP will sport a number of mechanical upgrades over the stock Tiago, including intake and exhaust systems being tweaked for improved performance. In the interest of improving acceleration, Tata Motors will also optimise the gear ratios on the standard 5-speed manual gearbox. Handling will also be given due emphasis in the transformation process, with the hatchback running a specially reworked suspension – lowered springs and a slightly reduced ride height, which will give the Tiago JTP a more purposeful stance.
Lowered ride height aside, there will be several other cues to distinguish the Tiago JTP from the everyday version of the Tiago. The front bumper will sport a large air dam, there will be exaggerated housings for the fog lamps (with the elements further embellished with contrasting red detailing), while the bonnet and fenders will also feature air vents. Smoked projector headlamps, side skirts and a rear diffuser are other visual updates that will seriously enhance the look of the sportier Tiago. Stylish diamond cut alloy wheels will complete the look but, perhaps, in the interest of maintaining ride comfort, Tata will stick with 15-inch rims.
Inside, the Tiago JTP is set to get an all-black theme, a rich leather finish on the seats and steering (with funky red contrast stitching) as well as aluminium pedals. Tata is also likely to give the Tiago JTP the same 5.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system as seen on the Tiago NRG, paired to an eight-speaker sound system from Harman.
Tata is expected to launch the hotter Tiago sometime before Diwali at about Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom), a Rs 1 lakh premium over the standard model.
In the meantime, how much power do you think will the Tiago JTP make? Take a guess and leave your thoughts in the comments.
Also see:
Production-spec Tata Tiago JTP spied