Is Tata Tiago Worth It in 2023: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction
The Tata Tiago has been a crowd favorite in the Indian market since its launch in 2016. With its affordable price, impressive fuel efficiency, and standout safety features, it's no surprise that many owners consider it a worthy purchase. In this article, we'll explore whether the Tata Tiago is still a good choice in 2023 and highlight its key features and disadvantages.
The Tata Tiago: A Complete Package
As an owner of a Tata Tigor, I can confidently say that the Tata Tiago is indeed a complete package. It offers a spacious, safest driving experience with a remarkable user interface. The car's road presence is impressive, and the driving experience is both smooth and engaging. Whether you're looking for a reliable daily driver or a car that can handle more adventurous road trips, the Tiago is a solid choice.
My own experience with the Tiago since August 2016, amounts to a total distance of 134,860 kilometers. The car has performed admirably, with a remarkable average of 20 to 25 kilometers per liter (km/l) in fuel efficiency. The diesel variant XT, which I purchased, has given me a consistent and reliable performance over the years.
Value for Money
When it comes to value for money, the Tata Tiago is a no-brainer. The car has proven its worth through its durability and low maintenance costs. My daily drive is about 160 kilometers, and the engine’s performance remains smooth and silent, even after several years of use. The AC system is fantastic, and I rarely need to use the third setting. The smooth gear shifts and comfortable seats contribute to an enjoyable driving experience.
The standout feature of the Tiago is the Harman JBL powered speakers system, which is an absolute must-have for any music lover. The sound quality, especially the bass, is top-notch, and the Bluetooth connectivity is user-friendly. However, there have been some disappointments, such as issues with sound pickup and the Tata authorised service centers. The average cost of servicing is around 8,000 INR, but the company has been working on addressing customer feedback.
Focus on Safety
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Tata Tiago is its safety. In my own experience, I was involved in an accident where the car's safety features were critical. In March 2019, a tanker was brought to a sudden stop in front of me at a speed of 40 km/h. Although I expected a heavily dented bonnet, the car sustained only a minor 1 cm dent and a paint scratch. This experience reinforced my belief in the Tiago's build quality and safety standards.
Much of this build quality can be attributed to the use of high-quality metal sheets, especially at areas such as the A, B, and C pillars. Unlike other cars in the same price range, the Tiago's build quality is commendable, and it has survived crash tests with relatively minor damage. This is a stark contrast to other brands like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, or Datsun, which often lack the same level of safety standards.
One notable challenge, however, is the issue with the bonnet pickup and the Tata authorised service centres. These service centres need to improve their performance and address customer feedback more effectively. Despite these minor issues, the Tiago's overall safety and build quality make it a more reliable choice than many alternatives in the market.
Conclusion
With its safety, value for money, and reliable performance, the Tata Tiago is a car that won't disappoint you. It's the most cost-effective option in its segment, whether you're looking at fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, or overall build quality. If you're in the market for a hatchback under 6 lacs INR, the Tata Tiago is definitely worth considering. Give it a chance, and you might be surprised by its performance and durability.
Happy Driving!
Data of Purchase: August 2016
Distance Driven: 134,860 kilometers
Variant: Diesel XT
Price: Under 6 lacs INR
Features: Harman JBL powered speakers, smooth AC, smooth gear shifts, comfortable seats, 20-25 km/l fuel efficiency