img

If you’ve been eyeing a compact electric SUV lately, the Tata Punch EV has likely been at the top of your list. It’s been a massive hit in India, but with the recent launch of the new facelift model, many of us are left wondering: “Is the new one really that much better, or was the old one just fine?”

Let’s break it down in plain English. No jargon, just the facts you need to know before putting your money down.

1. The Look: From Rugged to Futuristic

The first thing you’ll notice is the face. The older Punch EV looked a bit more traditional with its black grille strip and separate DRLs. The new facelift, however, looks like it traveled back from the future. It now features a connected LED DRL bar that runs across the front and a body-colored closed panel. It’s cleaner, sleeker, and definitely more "EV-looking." Around the back, you get connected tail lamps too, which makes the car look wider and more premium on the road.

2. Stepping Inside: A Massive Tech Leap

Inside is where you really feel the "newness." While the old model was comfortable, the facelift feels high-tech. You get a fresh two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo (it looks very cool at night). The infotainment system has been upgraded to a smoother 10-inch screen with a much better user interface. Plus, the center console is now mostly touch-based, giving the cabin a very modern, minimalist vibe.

3. Range: Going the Extra Mile

This is the big one. We all want more range, right?

Old Model: Offered 25 kWh and 35 kWh battery options, giving you roughly 315 km to 421 km (ARAI).

New Facelift: Now offers a beefier 40 kWh battery pack on the top end, pushing the range up to 468 km. That extra 40-50 km might not sound like much on paper, but in the real world, it’s the difference between reaching your destination comfortably or biting your nails looking for a charger.

4. Safety & Features: No More Compromises

Tata has always been known for safety, but they’ve upped the ante here. 6 airbags are now standard across all variants. That’s a huge win for peace of mind. On top of that, the new model adds luxury features like ventilated seats (a godsend in Indian summers), a cooled glove box, and multiple drive modes.

5. The Price Tag: A Pleasant Surprise

Here’s the kicker—the new model actually starts at a lower price point! While the old one started around ₹9.99 lakh, the new Punch EV starts at ₹9.69 lakh. And if you opt for the BaaS (Battery as a Service) model, the entry price drops significantly to about ₹6.49 lakh, making it more accessible than ever.

The Verdict: Old or New?

If you already own the older Punch EV, you’re still driving a great car. But if you’re a first-time buyer, the facelift is a no-brainer. With more range, better safety, and a much cooler interior for a similar (or lower) price, the new Tata Punch EV is easily one of the best value-for-money electric cars in India right now.


Read More: Trouble Mounts for Zee Entertainment SEBI’s Fresh Notice and a Crashing Share Price