ReviewNest

Tata Altroz Petrol DCA Review: The Smart City Hatchback – Smooth Automatic, Premium Comfort, and 5-Star Safety!

Introduction: The Tata Altroz Petrol DCA enters the competitive premium hatchback segment with a compelling proposition: combining the Altroz’s acclaimed design and robust build quality with the convenience of a modern dual-clutch automatic transmission. It’s specifically tailored for the urban dweller who seeks a seamless and comfortable driving experience in congested city traffic, without having to compromise on safety or style.

Priced from an ex-showroom ₹ 11,49,000* (for the listed variant, prices may vary by region and offers), the Tata Altroz Petrol DCA aims to deliver a premium feel at a competitive price point. It features Tata’s proven 1.2L Revotron Petrol engine paired with a sophisticated 6-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCA) gearbox, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing effortless driving, comfort, and safety in their daily commute.

Key Features: Smart Automatic, Refined Design, and Uncompromised Safety

The Tata Altroz Petrol DCA is equipped with features that highlight its convenience, premium feel, and strong safety credentials.

• 1.2L Revotron Petrol Engine: Powering the Altroz DCA is Tata’s reliable 1.2L Revotron Petrol engine. This 1199 cc, 3-cylinder unit produces 88 PS @ 6000 rpm and 115 Nm of torque @ 3250 rpm. While not a powerhouse, it offers adequate performance for city driving and light highway duties.
• 6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCA) Transmission: The standout feature is the advanced 6-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCA) gearbox. This transmission is known for its smooth, quick, and seamless gear shifts, providing a refined driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic, without the typical jerkiness of AMT units.
• 5-Star Global NCAP Safety Rating: A core strength of the Altroz lineup, it retains its 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP for adult occupant protection and a 4-star rating for child occupant protection. This makes it one of the safest premium hatchbacks in India, offering immense peace of mind.
• Spacious 345L Boot Space: The Altroz offers a highly practical 345 liters of boot space, which is generous for a hatchback and makes it suitable for family outings or carrying substantial luggage.
• Premium Ride Quality and Quiet Cabin: The Altroz is known for its well-tuned suspension (Dual-Path MacPherson Strut at the front) that absorbs road imperfections effectively, providing a comfortable and plush ride. The cabin also offers good NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) insulation for a quiet experience.
• 16” Alloy Wheels: The provision of 16-inch alloy wheels (in higher variants) not only enhances the vehicle’s sporty and premium aesthetic but also contributes to better road presence and handling.
• Stylish Design: The Altroz boasts a striking and contemporary design with sharp lines, a bold front fascia, and a distinctive rear, ensuring it stands out on the road.

Full Specifications Table: Tata Altroz Petrol DCA

The Driving Experience: Pros and Cons for the City-Focused Driver

The Tata Altroz Petrol DCA combines convenience with the Altroz’s inherent strengths, but some trade-offs exist.

✔️ Pros: Why the Tata Altroz Petrol DCA Excels

• Smooth and Responsive DCA Gearbox: The 6-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic transmission offers significantly smoother and quicker shifts compared to traditional AMTs, providing a premium and comfortable driving experience, especially in stop-and-go city traffic.
• Great for City Traffic and Daily Use: The automatic transmission, coupled with the compact dimensions and good maneuverability, makes it an ideal car for navigating congested urban environments effortlessly.
• Premium Ride Quality and Quiet Cabin: The Altroz’s suspension is well-tuned to absorb road imperfections, delivering a comfortable and composed ride. The cabin is also relatively well-insulated, contributing to a quieter experience.
• Stylish Design and Premium Interiors: The Altroz stands out with its sharp, contemporary design and a well-appointed interior that offers a premium feel for its segment.
• Solid Build and High Safety Rating: With a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, the Altroz DCA offers top-tier occupant protection, making it a very safe choice for families and daily commutes.
• Good Boot Space (345L): Practical for a hatchback, offering ample luggage capacity for city errands or short trips.

❌ Cons: Points for Consideration

• No Turbo Variant in Petrol DCA: The Altroz DCA is only available with the 1.2L naturally aspirated Revotron engine. For those seeking more spirited performance, particularly on highways or for quicker overtakes, the absence of a turbo-petrol option with the DCA is a significant drawback.
• No Paddle Shifters: The lack of paddle shifters on the steering wheel limits manual control over gear changes for drivers who prefer a more engaging experience.
• Only Average Highway Performance: While adequate for city use, the 1.2L naturally aspirated engine coupled with the DCA might feel a bit strained or require more effort for quick overtakes and sustained high speeds on highways, especially with a full load.
• Slightly Higher Pricing: The DCA variants carry a premium over their manual counterparts, which might push it into consideration with some compact SUVs or larger hatchbacks.
• Petrol Mileage Lower than Diesel/CNG: As expected, the petrol engine will offer lower fuel economy compared to the diesel or iCNG variants, leading to higher running costs for high-mileage users.
• Only Petrol Fuel Type: Limits fuel choice for buyers who might prefer diesel for efficiency or CNG for extremely low running costs.

Final Verdict: The Altroz DCA – Your Go-To for Comfortable and Safe City Driving

The Tata Altroz Petrol DCA is a compelling choice for anyone prioritizing comfort, convenience, and safety in their daily urban commute. The star of the show is undoubtedly the smooth and refined 6-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCA) gearbox, which transforms the city driving experience, making it effortless and enjoyable, particularly in congested traffic.

Beyond the automatic convenience, the Altroz retains its core strengths: a segment-leading 5-star Global NCAP safety rating for unparalleled peace of mind, a premium and stylish design that stands out, and a comfortable ride quality that absorbs urban imperfections with ease.

While the absence of a turbo-petrol engine with the DCA and the resultant average highway performance are points to note, for city dwellers, families, and individuals who seek a sophisticated automatic hatchback that doesn’t compromise on build quality or safety, the Tata Altroz Petrol DCA is a fantastic buy. It’s a well-engineered, practical, and stylish everyday car that simplifies urban mobility.