Here’s Your First Look At The Tata Altroz Turbo Petrol

• Altroz Turbo petrol could utilise a detuned version of the Nexon’s engine.
• The Turbo variant could be offered with an automatic transmission option.
• The auto option is likely to be a dual-clutch transmission, a first for Tata.
• The test mule’s blue shade looks similar to the Nexon's Tectonic Blue colour.
• The Altroz Turbo petrol is expected to be launched in early 2021.

Remember the Tata Altroz Geneva Edition that debuted with a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol motor? While it got us enthusiasts excited about the Altroz then, Tata disappointed us by deciding not to launch the premium hatchback with that powerplant. Instead, we got the same 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol as the Tiago, putting out just 86PS. However, Tata could soon answer our prayers as the Altroz Turbo has been spotted testing undisguised. 

But how does one know that this is the Tata Altroz Turbo? The main indicator is the ‘Turbo’ badge on the tailgate. Another distinguishing factor is this blue shade, which suits the hatchback very well and could be exclusive to the Turbo variant. In fact, it looks similar to the Nexon's Tectonic Blue colour option.  

The Altroz Turbo is likely to utilise a detuned version of the Nexon’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine as seen on the 2019 Geneva show car. We expect the Altroz’ unit to develop 102PS of power and 140Nm of torque, making it 16PS and 30Nm less powerful than the Nexon. However, the Altroz Turbo could offer a party trick in the form of a dual-clutch automatic transmission instead of the Nexon’s 6-speed AMT. A manual gearbox could also be part of the lineup.  

We were also hoping that the Altroz Turbo would utilise parts from the JTP bin. But now that the partnership has been dissolved, the idea of the Altroz featuring performance based upgrades seems bleak. That said, the standard Altroz has a mature ride and handling setup and the addition of this engine could unlock its true potential. Apart from the Tiago’s petrol motor, the Altroz is currently offered with a 90PS 1.5-litre diesel engine as well. Read how they perform right here.  

The Tata Altroz Turbo is expected to reach showrooms in early 2021 and is likely to be the flagship petrol variant in its lineup. The Altroz petrol is currently priced from Rs 5.44 lakh to Rs 7.65 lakh (ex-showroom), and the Turbo variant could very well breach the Rs 8 lakh mark. The Altroz Turbo will go up against VW’s Polo TSI and the upcoming Hyundai i20 Turbo.