Tata Punch.ev

Tata Punch EV is a popular electric compact SUV in India, known for its features, safety ratings and range. The price of the Punch EV starts at Rs.9.99 lakh for the base variant and goes up to Rs.14.44 lakh ex-showroom, for the top the variant.

From the exterior, the Punch EV retains the familiar silhouette of its ICE counterpart but introduces several distinctive design elements that clearly mark it as an electric vehicle and give it a more premium and modern appeal.

The most noticeable change is the redesigned, blanked-off grille, which is a characteristics of EVs. This contributes to better aerodynamics. The charging flap is neatly integrated into the center of the grille, behind the illuminated Tata logo. This is a convenient location and differentiates it from other Tata EVs like the Nexon EV, which have the charging port on the fender. 

A sleek, full-width LED light bar runs across the bonnet, connecting the two LED DRLs (Daytime Running Light) units. These DRLs often feature cool sequential turn indicators and welcome/goodbye animations, adding a premium touch. 

The main headlamps are now LED projector units and are positioned lower on the bumper in a vertically stacked cluster, giving it a more sophisticated look. Higher variants of the Punch is provided with LED fog lamps, which also offer a cornering function for improved visibility.The front bumper is designed to accommodate the new lighting setup and often features a prominent silver skid plate at the bottom, enhancing its SUV appeal.

From the side, the Punch EV largely retains the recognizable compact SUV silhouette of the ICE Punch, including the high beltline and pillar mounted rear door handles. Subtle "EV" badging provided on the front doors distinguishes it as an electric model. 15 inch steel wheels with covers is provided on the lower variants where as 16 inch alloy wheels are provided higher variants. These diamond cut alloy wheels are designed aerodynamically to reduce drag and thereby to improve the range of the vehicle.

Thick black cladding around the wheel arches and along the side sills adds to its rugged, SUV like stance. Depending on the variant, the outside rear view mirrors come with electric adjustment and folding functions, often with integrated turn indicators. Roof rails provided on higher variants are also enhancing its SUV stance.

The signature Y-shaped LED tail lamps are carried over from the ICE Punch, giving it a distinct rear light signature. The tailgate features prominent "PUNCH.EV" lettering, clearly identifying it as the electric variant. The bumper is slightly revised, often incorporating a silver skid plate mirrors the front. Shark-fin antenna is provided on the roof of higher variants. The roof-mounted spoiler adds a sporty touch and aids in aerodynamics.

Dimensions:

• Length: 3857 mm
• Width: 1742 mm
• Height: 1633 mm
• Wheelbase: 2445 mm
• Ground Clearance ( unladen): 190 mm
• Boot Space: 366 Liters

Overall, the Tata Punch EV's exterior successfully blends the robust appeal of a micro-SUV with futuristic EV design cues, giving it a fresh and distinctive road presence compared to its petrol counterpart.

The Tata Punch EV's interior is a significant upgrade over its ICE counterpart, featuring a modern and feature-rich cabin. It is provided with a dual-tone black and white (or grey) theme, which contributes to an airy and premium feel. The dashboard has a multi-layered design, integrating the AC vents seamlessly. The overall design is futuristic, with a focus on digital elements and sleek controls. While mostly plastic, the material used are generally of good and don't feel cheap.

Key Features and Technology:

Infotainment System: A prominent 10.25-inch touch screen infotainment system takes center stage, supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It comes with Tata's Arcade.ev app suite, allowing access to various OTT applications and games when the car is parked. The system is integrated with multiple voice assistance like Hey Tata, Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant. JBL surroung system is provided on higher variants.

Digital Driver's Display: A 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster provides all essential driving information like range, speed, driving mode, battery level and more. It can also sync with the infotainment system to display maps from Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which is a premium feature for this segment.

Steering Wheel: The steering wheel features Tata's new 2-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo. It has integrated controls for the infotainment system, digital driver's display, and cruise control. Paddle shifters are also provided to adjust the levels of regenerative braking on the go.

Climate Control and Comfort: Automatic climate control with a "Phygital control panel ( a mix of physical buttons and touch controls.) is provided. Ventilated front seats are provided on higher variants. Air purifier with AQI (Air Quality Index) display and cooled glove box are also available.

Sunroof: A single-pane electric sunroof  is available on higher variants. It can be operated with voice commands (including Hinglish).

Drive Mode Selector: A stylish jeweled rotary drive mode selector with an integrated display and buttons for Sport and Economy Drive modes are also present.

Seating & Space: Top variants are provided with dual-tone leatherette upholstery. Height adjustable driver seat is provided. Front seats are wide and offer good cushioning and side support. Higher variants are provided with ventilated seats. Rear seat is also offering decent legroom and under-thigh support for average sized adults. However it is best suited for two passengers, with the middle passenger feeling a bit cramped due to the central bulge and lack of a dedicated headrest. Rear center arm rest is also available. 90-degree opening doors make ingress and egress easier.

Storage: 366 liters of boot space is available in rear, additionally 14 liters of "frunk" (front trunk)  is provided under the bonnet, is ideal for keeping charging cables or small bags. All doors are provided with 1 liter bottle holders. Two small cup holders are provided at the front, there is a storage spaces in the center arm rest too. The wireless phone charger doubles as a tray is also a nice feature.

Battery and Range

The Tata Punch EV comes with two main battery pack options, both of which are Lithium-Ion batteries. These batteries are liquid-cooled and have an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, providing durability and safety.

Medium Range Battery Pack:

• Capacity: 25kWh
• Claimed Range: 315km
• Motor Output: 80.46 bhp (60 kW) power and 114Nm torque

Long Range Battery Pack:

• Capacity: 35kWh
• Claimed Range: 421km
• Motor Output: 120.69 bhp (90 kW) power and 190Nm torque

The real world range for the LR variant is often reported to be around 300-315km with AC on.

Tata Motors offers an 8-years or 1,60,000 km warranty on the battery pack, whichever comes first, covering manufacturing defects, performance issues, and significant degradation.

The Punch with a variety of charging options- from slow home charging to rapid public charging. Here is the breakdown of the charger types and associated charging times:

DC Fast Charging (50kW): 10-80% in approximately 56 minutes for both battery packs.

AC Charging (7.2kW):

• 25kWh variant: 10-100% in about 3.6 hours
• 35kWh variant: 10-100% in about 5 hours

It also supports regular 15A plug point charging (10-100% in around 9.5 hours for the 35kWh battery).

Safety Features

Tata Punch EV is one of the safest cars in its segment, having achieved 5-star safety rating in both Adult Occupant Protection and Child Occupant Protection from Bharat NCAP. In fact, it achieved one of the highest scores ever recorded by Bharat NCAP. Some of the key safety features are giving below.

• 6 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Program
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Hill Hold Assist
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Rear Parking Sesnors
• IP67 Battery Pack and Motor
• Seat Belt Reminder
• Pedestrian Protection System

Higher variant includes

• All 4 Disc Brakes
• 360-Degree Surround View Camera
• Blind Spot View Monitor
• Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold
• SOS Calling Function
• Hill Descent Control
• Rain Sensing Wipers
• Auto-Dimming IRVM,etc and more

Overall, the Tata Punch EV is a compelling package for those looking for a compact, feature-rich, and safe electric SUV, primarily suited for urban and occasional intercity travel.

Note: All images used in this blog has been taken from Manufacturer's website for a general information.

Kia Carens Clavis

Kia has introduced the Carens Clavis in India. Like all other Kias, this car is no different in terms of features and new age technology. The Clavis is a technology packed wonder in all aspects. The price of the car is not yet announced but the pre booking is allowed in the website.

Exterior

The Clavis comes with a bold and refreshed exterior design, positioning it as a more premium and SUV-inspired version of the popular Carens MPV. It aims to turns heads with a futuristic stance while retaining its family friendly practicality.

The Clavis greets onlookers with Kia's signature 'Digital Tiger Face,' which has been updated for a more assertive look. A key highlight is the redesigned front end featuring striking triangular, three-pod LED headlamps, in some variants referred to as 'Ice Cube MFR LED Headlamps.' These are complimented by distinctive angular or inverted L-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) dubbed 'Star Map LED DRLs,' that lend aggressive edge. The grille takes inspiration from Kia's newer electric models like the EV5 and Syros, appearing largely blanked-off. A redesigned front bumper incorporates a contrasting black section and a robust faux silver skid plate, enhancing its rugged appeal.

While maintaining a silhouette similar to the existing Carens, the Clavis boasts several upgrades. Prominent black body claddings along the wheel arches and side sills emphasizes its SUV-like character. It rides on newly designed larger  wheels, available in 16-inch or 17-inch sizes, often featuring a crystal-cut dual-tone finish. Body coloured outside rear view mirrors with integrated turn signals, sleek black roof rails (integrated on certain trims), and conventional pull type door handles complete the side view. Subtle silver inserts add a touch of premiumness. Dimensionally, the Carens Clavis is slightly longer than the standard Carens by approximately 10mm, with the overall length of  4550 mm, width of 1800 mm, height of 1708 mm, and a wheelbase of 2780 mm.

The rear of Carens Clavis has undergone a significant transformation. It now features eye-catching connected LED taillights, referred to as 'Star Map LED Connected Tail Lamps,' which are linked by an illuminated light bar spanning the width of the tailgate. A redesigned rear bumper, also featuring a chunky silver skid plate, mirrors the ruggedness of the front. A 'Clavis' badge, a roof-mounted spoiler and a shark-fin antenna round off the modern rear aesthetics.

Interior

Step inside the new Kia Carens Clavis, and you are greeted by a significantly revamped and more premium interior compared to the standard Carens. Kia has focused on enhancing the ambiance, technology, and comfort levels, aligning with the Clavis's upmarket positioning.

The most striking change in the all-new layered dashboard design. It prominently features a dual-screen setup on higher variants, compromising  a large 12.3-inch floating touch screen infotainment  system  and an equally sized 12.3-inch fully digital driver's side display, reminiscent of the  setup in the Kia Syros. Lower trims are expected to feature an 8-inch touchscreen, often with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

A new two-spoke multi-function steering wheel, also borrowed from the Syros, adds a contemporary touch. Below the central screen, a sleek touch-enabled panel with physical knobs allows for intuitive control over both the climate control and media systems, featuring an "infotainment/temperature swap switch" for dual functionality. The center console has also been redesigned with contrasting silver accents and houses the gear selector, wireless phone charger, and cup holders.

The Carens Clavis retains its versatile three-row seating configuration, available in both 6-seater (with captain's chairs in the second row, typically on the top-spec HTX+ variant) and 7-seater (with bench seats) layouts. Kia has introduced new upholstery options to elevate the cabin feel. These include dual-tone themes like black and beige for entry to mid-level variants, and a sophisticated navy blue and beige combination for higher trims. Some variants feature an indigo-coloured dashboard with black metal trim, paired with the beige and navy leatherette seats, while others offer premium fabric with semi-leatherette seats in black. A vertical line design on the seats further enhances the premium look.

Passenger comfort is a key focus in the Clavis. A major highlight is the introduction of the panoramic sunroof, with higher turbo-petrol trims receiving a dual-pane version, while other variants get a single-pane electric sunroof. Front occupants benefit from ventilated seats and a 4-way powered driver's seat (though height adjustment often remains manual).

The cabin experience is further enriched by 64-colour ambient lighting, a wireless phone charger, and thoughtful additions like retractable seat back tables with integrated cup and IT device holders. Rear door sunshades are standard fitment from the base variant, and the second row seats feature a convenient one-touch electric tumble function for easy access to the third row. Practicality is maintained with roof-flushed second and third-row diffused AC vents, multiple USB Type-C charging ports, a smart key with push button start and remote engine start, auto dimming IRVM with Kia Connect controls, telescopic steering adjustment, cooled cup holders and even a cooled can holder for the second-row passengers.

Beyond infotainment, the Clavis's interior is packed with technology. Higher variants boast an 8-speaker Bose premium sound system and Kia Connect for connected car features with Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.

For safety and driver assistance, a Level 2 ADAS (Advance Driver Assistance Systems) suite is available on the top-spec DCT variant. Other notable interior safety and convenience features include a 360-degree camera system, Blind View Monitoring System in the instrument cluster, a factory installed dual-camera dashcam (on HTX and HTX+ variants), a Smart Pure Air Purifier with an AQI display, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, and front and rear parking sensors. As standard, the Clavis comes with six airbags.

While offering a more luxurious environment, the Carens Clavis doesn't compromise on the practicality that the Carens is known for. It continues to offer a spacious three-row layout with good headroom and legroom, particularly in the first and second rows. The third row remains usable, especially for short journeys. With all three rows in place, the boot space is a practical 216 liters.

Overall, the interior of Kia Carens Clavis represents a significant step up, with a clear emphasis on a more premium design, enhanced material quality, a wealth of new technology, and improved comfort and convenience features, making it a more sophisticated and inviting space for families.

The Kia Carens Clavis  will be offered with three distinct engine choices:

• 1.5-liter Naturally Aspirated Petrol Engine: This unit is tuned to produce approximately 115PS of power and 144Nm of torque is  available  with a manual transmission and potentially an automatic option, focusing on smooth city drivability and efficiency.
• 1.5-liter Turbo-Petrol Engine: For those seeking a more spirited driving experience, this engine delivers a robust 160PS and 253Nm torque. It will likely be paired with multiple transmission choices, including a 6-speed (intelligent Manual Transmission) and a 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission), offering a blend of performance and convenience.
• 1.5-liter Diesel Engine: A staple for long-distance cruising and fuel economy, this engine generates around 116 PS of power and 250Nm of torque. Buyers can expect this engine to be mated with both manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The turbo-petrol variant is the most performance-oriented of the lot, providing brisk acceleration suitable for both urban commutes and highway journeys. The diesel variant will continue to be a strong choice for its torque delivery and fuel efficiency, while the naturally aspirated petrol will serve as an accessible entry point into the Carens Clavis range.

 Kia Carens Clavis aims to elevated overall ownership experience with an updated design, enhanced interior features and the inclusion of  Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in higher trims, positioning it as a more upmarket offering compared to the standard Kia Carens.

Note: All images used in this blog has been taken from Manufacturer's website for a general information.

Hyundai CRETA Electric

Hyundai Creta EV is an all-electric version of Hyundai's hot selling SUV Creta. The Creta EV launched in India in January.2025. Price of the base variant starts with Rs.17.99 lakh and goes up to Rs 24.38 lakh for top end model.

As usual, the Creta looks very handsome and bold from its exterior. The Creta EV shares its design language with the regular Creta, but with some EV-specific touches like a pixelated closed-grille, aerodynamic wheels and lighting elements. The lower portion of the grille having an auto open and close function, is a part of  battery management system.

The 17-inch alloy wheels of the car looks beautiful, these are designed to reduce drag and improve efficiency. Charging port is integrated into the front grille, making it easily accessible. A small storage space or frunk space of 22 liter is also made available under the front bonnet.

As the regular Creta, the EV variant of the car looks good from the rear too. An Electric badging is provided on the electric tail gate differentiate it from the ICE version. Overall, the Creta EV's exterior design is a blend of familiar Creta styling and EV-specific elements, creating a unique and appealing look.

The interior of the Hyundai Creta EV is designed to be spacious, comfortable and modern, with a focus on technology and convenience. It has a very premium cabin. The long sunroof provided on the Creta EV elevates its premium feel from inside.

The dashboard features two 10.25-inch screens, one for the infotainment system and the other for the digital instrument cluster. This gives the cabin a high-tech feel. Wireless mobile charger and two C-type charging points are provided. 

It has a nice 3-spoke steering wheel with three dots on the middle, other than the regular Hyundai logo, that represents a Morse code for H as in the Ioniq-5. Volume control and cruise control switches are provided on it. Gear selector is now provided on the steering wheel is making the center console more spacious.

Center console has a floating design, creating a sense of spaciousness, it houses the drive selector, cup holders and electronic parking break. Bottle holders are provided on all four doors. Cool glove box and ambient lighting are provided. A driver armrest provided is also having a small storage space, is good to hold wallets or snacks.

Front seats are very comfortable and are ventilated seats. Both the driver and co-driver seats has electrical adjustment. The driver seat have 8-way electrical adjustments with memory function to store preferred driving position. The co-driver seat also gets an electric boss mode, allowing rear passengers to adjust it for more legroom.

The rear seats are also well cushioned and offer good under-thigh support, even with the raised floor due to the battery pack. Three headrests are provided. It also have a 2-step reclining function for added comfort.

Features like AC vents, sunshades and a retractable tray with cup-holders with slots for phones or tablets are made available for rear passengers.

The Creta EV is powered by a single electric motor mounted on the front axle, driving the front wheels. The vehicle is provided with two battery pack options: A 42kWh pack with a claimed range of 390km, and a 51.4kWh pack with a claimed range of 473km. The long range variant offers 171hp and 255Nm torque, while the standard variant delivers 135hp and 200Nm of torque. The higher variant of the car can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 7.9sec. The instant torque delivery of electric motor makes overtaking effortless, both in city and highway conditions.

The Creta Electric offers three driving modes: Eco, Normal and Sport. Each mode offers a distinct driving experience, with varying levels of responsiveness and power delivery. The Eco mode prioritizes efficiency, while the Sport mode offers the most spirited performance.

The regenerative braking feature helps to recover energy and improve efficiency. Creta EV offers five levels of regenerative braking, allowing driver to customize the level of deceleration. The highest level of regenerative braking enables one-pedal driving, where the car can be brought to a complete stop  without using the brake pedal. 

The steering is well weighted and responsive, making the car easy to maneuver in city traffic also the added weight of the battery pack gives the car a planted feel, thus improving stability at higher speeds. Suspension of the Creta EV is well tuned to provide a comfortable ride even on rough roads. It is a practical and efficient choice for daily commutes and long journeys.

Dimension & Technical Specification

When come to safety, the new Creta Electric comes with a lot of active and passive safety features. Some of them are given below..

• 6 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Hill-Start Assist Control (HSC)
• Hill Descent Control (DSC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Front & rear disc brakes
• Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold
• Rain sensing wiper
• Seat belt pretensioners-Driver & Passenger
• Driver anchor pretensioner
• Height adjustable front seat belts
• Seatbelt reminder for all seats
• Child seat anchor (ISOFIX)
• Emergency stop signal (ESS)
• Impact sensing auto door unlock
• Speed sensing auto door lock
• Auto headlamp
• Parking assist
• Rear defogger with timer
• Rear and front parking sensors etc..

And Hyundai SmartSense features (ADAS) include

• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Forward Collision Avoidance Assist
• Blind-spot Collision Warning
• Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Driver Attention Warning
• Safe Exit Warning
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Lane Following Assist
• High Beam Assist
• Leading Vehicle Departure Alert
• Rear Cross- Traffic Collision Warning
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist
• Surround View Monitor
• Blind-Spot View Monitor

In conclusion, the Creta Electric is a nice, bold looking SUV, comes with a very spacious cabin and luxurious seats. It is a technology packed all round vehicle with tons of active and safety features too. Moreover, 400+ km driving range and fast charging facility provided on the car makes a good choice to consider it if you are planning to buy an EV.

Note: All images used in this blog has been taken from Manufacturer's website for a general information.

Skoda Kylaq

Skoda has recently launched its new sub-four meter SUV Kylaq in India. It is available in petrol manual and automatic variants. Manual entry model of the Kylaq is priced at Rs.7.89 lakh and goes up to Rs.14.40 lakh for the top end automatic model.

The Kylaq looks bold from the front. Power bulges can be seen on the bonnet. LED headlights and DRLs are provided. Typical Skoda grille and large air dam with skid plate are making the car more more beautiful from the front. 

From the sides, you can find the beautiful 17 inch alloy wheels, whereas16 inch wheels are provided on the lower variants, 189mm ground clearance is evident from the sides. Black cladding starting from the front bumper passing all the way to the back bumper making it more rugged. ORVMs are in body color. Black roof rails (non-functional) provided on the Kylaq is enhancing its SUV stance from the sides.

The thick skid plate element is provided on the back bumper. Skoda name is fixed on the black element under the rear glass. 

The Kylaq is having a nice neatly laid out cabin. Fit and finish of the material are very good. A 10.1 inch touch screen infotainment system is provided. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are provided. However, the resolution of rear view camera is a bit low when compare with the competition. The 8 inch digital cockpit looks very neat, the driver can access various vehicle related information like speed, distance travelled, average fuel efficiency, service interval etc. from this screen. Touch and feel of the driving wheel is very good. This steering wheel has manual  tilt and reach adjustment. Volume and cruise control switches are provided on it.

Skoda Kylaq is provided with well contoured seats. It can accommodate five people. Front seats are ventilated seats with six-way electrically adjustable functions. A small sun roof is provided.  Wireless mobile phone charger, two type-C USB chargers and a 12V charger are provided on the front. A small storage space is provided under the driver arm rest. Rear A/c vents and two type-C chargers are provided for rear passengers. Three adjustable headrests are also provided. All the four doors are provided with bottle holders also you will get two cup holders on the center arm rest of the rear seat.

The boot space of the Kylaq is 446 liters with all the seats are in upright position, but it can be increased to a whopping 1265 liters by folding the second row seat. These rear seats are actually a 60:40 split seat.

Skoda Kylaq Dimension

Engine and Transmission

The Kylaq is provided with a 999cc 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, is mated with a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions. The automatic variant is provided with paddle-shifters too.

Safety

Skoda Kylaq is a robust vehicle. It is provided with six airbags as standard. Some of the safety features are giving below.

• Six Airbags as standard
• ABS
• Electronic Differential Locking System (EDS)
• Multi-Collision Brake
• Brake Disc Wiping
• Hill-hold Assist
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• High Speed Alert
• Central Locking
• Seatbelt Pretensioners and Reminders
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Rear Parking Camera
• Anti-theft Alarm
• ISOFIX, etc.

Although it is provided with several safety features and having robust build quality, it lacks in the department of ADAS features, it could have provided at least in its top variant.

Conclusion

Skoda Kylaq looks very powerful and a well engineered vehicle. The Kylaq is one of the few vehicles which has scored full 5-stars in the BNCAP safety ratings. It is a perfect 5 seater and having a very decent boot space too. Definitely you can consider the Kylaq if you have plan to vehicle in its price range.

Note: All images used in this blog has been taken from Manufacturer's website for a general information.