Tata Tiago iCNG AMT: Balancing Convenience and Cost

For those seeking a family car equipped with CNG, the Tiago emerges as a top contender in the market, boasting appealing aesthetics, a comprehensive range of features, and adequate power for everyday commutes. Tata has effectively addressed two major concerns associated with CNG vehicles: limited boot space and the absence of an automatic transmission.

However, these enhancements come at a price -- an additional Rs 50,000 on top of the CNG which is priced at a Rs 95,000 premium over the manual variant. Does this elevated cost truly enhance the CNG driving experience and integrate it more seamlessly into mainstream usage, or does it undermine the cost-saving benefits typically associated with CNG?

Boot Space:

The Tiago now features two smaller cylinders with a combined capacity equivalent to the previous single 60-litre CNG tank. Placing these cylinders closer to the boot floor has significantly increased the available boot space, allowing for the accommodation of an overnight suitcase, a duffle bag, and a laptop bag simultaneously. Tata has ingeniously managed to incorporate a spare tyre beneath the boot floor, adding to the practicality of the design.

Driving Experience:

The Tiago iCNG delivers a smooth driving experience that may leave you questioning whether you're running on CNG at all. With seamless startup on CNG and negligible additional noise or vibration from the engine, it offers ample power for maintaining speeds of 50-60 kmph and executing overtakes. While acceleration at higher RPMs may feel somewhat lacking, particularly on highways, the car excels in urban environments. 

With the introduction of the AMT, the Tiago iCNG has significantly enhanced its driving experience. This AMT stands out as one of the finest transmissions offered in any Tata vehicle to date. Its upshifts are notably swift, and the shift logic and tuning are spot-on, ensuring that you remain within the power band without struggling for power. While the downshifts may not be as rapid, they are nevertheless smooth, and the gearbox tends to maintain a higher gear to sustain momentum. Whether running on CNG or petrol, Tata has skillfully calibrated the AMT to seamlessly accommodate both fuel options. Overall, we highly recommend the AMT variant for those seeking added convenience, particularly for city driving. 

Price vs Running Costs Dilemma:

The primary motivation for purchasing a CNG vehicle is typically the promise of lower running costs. However, the increased cost of the CNG AMT variant up front prompts a consideration of the time required to recoup this investment through fuel savings. A comparison of fuel costs and mileage reveals a substantial difference in running costs between the petrol and CNG variants. Assuming a daily mileage of 50 km, it would take approximately two years to offset the additional purchase cost of the CNG AMT through reduced running costs.

Verdict:

Tata has effectively positioned the Tiago as a formidable option in the family hatchback segment, offering a blend of style, features, comfort, and versatility in powertrain options. While the introduction of the AMT and CNG variants expands its appeal, the increased cost associated with the automatic transmission raises questions about its economic viability. Ultimately, the decision hinges on individual usage patterns; So for high-mileage drivers, the CNG AMT remains a financially sound choice, whereas those with lower daily mileage may find better value in opting for the petrol AMT variant.