The Tata Aeris, while a new name in the market, is built on the foundation of the popular Tigor. Known since 2017 for its unique styling and practicality, the Tigor has been a favorite for its comfortable ride and reliable powertrains. The Aeris enhances these qualities with a sharper design, a more luxurious interior, and an expanded list of features, while maintaining the same mechanical setup. Having explored the iCNG variant, the focus now shifts to the petrol version to assess its capabilities as a daily-use sedan.
Performance and Engine Characteristics
The petrol model of the Tata Aeris is equipped with a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, generating 86hp and 113Nm. This setup offers the choice of a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT). Though not the smoothest engine in its class, it provides a noticeable improvement over the CNG version in terms of cruising capability.
Notably, the petrol Aeris exhibits some vibrations at idle and low speeds, which diminish when in motion but reappear beyond 2,500rpm with a coarse engine note. The engine’s output is modestly enhanced compared to the CNG variant, making a perceptible difference on the road. The manual gearbox, while not as slick as some competitors, offers short shift throws and precise gear gates, contributing to a satisfying driving experience.
In urban environments, the Aeris performs adequately, with a light clutch that eases the strain in traffic. The manual version is quick to reach 80kph, though it takes longer to hit higher speeds. On highways, the petrol Aeris maintains speed efficiently, providing a decent cruising experience. The AMT version, while practical for city driving, shows typical hesitation during aggressive acceleration, making the manual option preferable for highway use.
Ride Quality and Handling
The Tata Aeris excels in ride comfort, handling broken roads with ease. Its suspension effectively absorbs surface irregularities, providing a smooth ride. With 170mm ground clearance, it navigates speed bumps comfortably. Despite the CNG version’s advantage in ride quality due to its 14-inch wheels, the petrol variant’s 15-inch alloys offer satisfactory performance.
At higher speeds, the Aeris remains stable, with a suspension that stiffens to handle quick maneuvers without feeling unsettled. The steering, though lacking precision around the center, gains weight at higher speeds, enhancing confidence during highway driving.
Fuel Efficiency and Design
While official fuel-efficiency figures for the Aeris petrol are yet to be disclosed, expectations align with the Tiago’s previous figures of 13.30kpl in the city and 16.60kpl on highways. The Aeris’ design is modern and sleek, featuring LED lights throughout and a design reminiscent of the Tiago hatchback. This alignment helps differentiate it from fleet-focused models, appealing more to private buyers.
The Aeris sports a new clamshell bonnet, LED headlights, and a revised front bumper, contributing to its contemporary look. Dual-tone alloy wheels and chrome accents enhance its profile, while the rear features modern taillights and a sleek bumper design.
Interior Comfort and Features
The Aeris’ interior is spacious with a beige theme that adds to its airy feel. Equipped with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen and a semi-digital instrument cluster, the cabin is both functional and modern. The dashboard and controls are well-organized, with tactile dials for climate control and a redesigned center console.
The seats offer part-leatherette upholstery, enhanced cushioning, and ventilation, ensuring comfort on long journeys. Rear seat space is ample, though headroom may be limited for taller passengers. The Aeris offers a generous 419-litre boot space, enhanced by mechanical struts that maximize storage capacity.
Safety and Value Proposition
The Aeris is equipped with a comprehensive array of features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 360-degree cameras, and a DVR function. Safety features include six airbags, Isofix child-seat anchorages, and a host of driver aids. The Aeris’ competitive pricing, ranging from Rs 5.29 lakh to Rs 8.74 lakh, positions it as a strong contender in its segment, offering significant value for money.
Source: Autocar India
