The domestic automaker Tata Motors did not enjoy a very favourable position in the minds of Indian car lovers till now. Tata cars were much behind the new cars from other automobile giants. And the failure of Tata Nano further defamed the company. But things have changed drastically with the introduction of the Zest sedan and Tata Bolt hatchback. Tata has proved that it can make cars that can stand up to the novel cars from foreign automakers. At Rs 4.2-6 lakhs, Bolt is an excellent value for money offer in terms of design, drivability, practicality and efficiency.
Bolt carries significant closeness to the old Indica Vista. Built on the same chassis as that of Zest, it does bear a resemblance to the new sedan as well from certain angles. The signature grille flows into the blackened out projector headlights and the fog lamps get a chrome garnish strip. Two prominent lines, the blackened C-pillar, a strong shoulder line and ORVMs with turn indicators add up spice to the profile view. The rear gets flame-shaped LED tail lights, a centre fog light and number plate strip in chrome.
The all black interior of the Bolt is quite airy and spacious. Although the car looks compact from outside, five adults can be easily housed in and there is still a luggage space of 320 litres. The curvy dashboard designed in a black and silver theme immediately catches attention. It is stylish, elegant, logical and moreover user-friendly. Seats are tall and comfortable and the plastics used are all of fine quality. Extra features include Electronic Power Assisted System with ‘Active Return’ function, speed-sensitive power steering, ABS, Cornering Stability feature and dual path suspension system. It also has a 5-inch touch screen with audio and video playback, advanced Bluetooth technology, an SD card reader, USB and aux-in, a trip computer, power windows/ mirrors, parking sensor, climate control and in-built HVAC controls.
Bolt is specially targeted towards those who are passionate about driving. Tata has equipped the Bolt with a 1.2-litre 1200 cc Revotron petrol mill and a 1.3-litre 1300 cc Quadrajet diesel power mill. Both the engines are powered with a five speed manual transmission gear box. The petrol powertrain of Tata Bolt can deliver 85 ps of power at 5000 rpm and 140 Nm of torque at 1750-3500 rpm and its diesel powertrain delivers 75 ps of power at 4000 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 1750-3000 rpm. The independently setup MacPherson suspension system at the front and an anti-roll bar at the rear play a significant part in the overall driving dynamics of this car. The slightly stiffer suspension also helps in better handling. The car feels agile and nimble and the steering precision is just right.
Also check Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 ABS
