What is Your Long-Term Review of Tata Tiago?
Over the past three years, Tata Tiago has been a staple in India's compact car market. As one of the best-selling petrol cars, its combination of features, performance, and value has appealed to a wide range of buyers. In this comprehensive review, I delve into the owner's experience over a two to three-year span, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the Tata Tiago.
Introduction to Tata Tiago
Launched in May 2016, the Tata Tiago has evolved into a beloved compact car, offering a mix of aesthetics and practicality. I am the owner of the base model for the last two years, and I am highly satisfied with its performance.
Build Quality and Design
The Tata Tiago is renowned for its robust build quality, making it a reliable daily driver. The car's design is sleek and modern, encapsulating a sense of luxury that is rarely found in its price segment. The exterior looks sensational, and the interior is comfort-oriented with precise fit and finish. The Harman music system adds an extra layer of luxury, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
Performance and Handling
The performance of the Tata Tiago is commendable, especially for its price range. It offers excellent mileage and very good handling. On highways, the car is stable and provides a comfortable driving experience. However, the engine lacks the refinement found in its competitors, which can make city driving somewhat challenging at times, particularly in congested areas.
Interior Features and Comfort
The interior of the Tata Tiago is thoughtfully designed with numerous small but impactful features. The hooks and bottle holders, for instance, are perfectly placed and make daily commutes more convenient. The seats, while comfortable, have a softer cushioning that, in my opinion, could have been firmer. Additionally, the car's boot space is adequate, easily accommodating a large and two small suitcases.
Service and Maintenance
Regarding service and maintenance, the Tata Tiago offers a cost-effective alternative. In my experience, servicing the car has been affordable, with each visit costing between 3,000 to 3,500 INR. This is in stark contrast to the 6,000 to 8,500 INR that I used to spend on my previous car, the Swift.
Negative Aspects and Points for Improvement
While the Tata Tiago excels in many areas, it is not without its drawbacks. The car's performance can be frustrating in heavy traffic due to poor low-end grunt. This can make driving in congested urban areas a bit more challenging. Additionally, the NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) levels are somewhat higher on highways, but these can be mitigated by the excellent music system. The head unit, although capable, is slow and can be a source of irritation.
Comparison with Swift
Previously, I owned a second-generation Swift. Comparing the Tata Tiago with the Swift, the Tiago stands out in terms of affordability and safety features. The build quality and paint quality are superb, with the exterior still looking new even after three years. Wider tires and a superior sound system further enhance the overall driving experience.
Conclusion
Overall, the Tata Tiago is a standout player in its market segment, offering a great ownership experience. While there are a few areas where improvements could be made, such as engine refinement and seating comfort, the car's combination of aesthetics, practicality, and value makes it a great choice for families and daily commuters looking for a reliable yet stylish compact car.