Tata Intra V20 Gold Bi-Fuel Review: The Anxiety-Free Pickup
Introduction: Unmatched Range, Uncompromising Performance
As India’s First Bi-Fuel Pickup, the Tata Intra V20 Gold is a revolutionary vehicle built on the ‘Premium Tough’ philosophy. It is conceptualized to offer a truly anxiety-free commute, providing uninterrupted operations with an incredible extended range of up to 800 km. With a powerful 1.2L engine, a massive 1200 kg payload, and a suite of car-like comfort features, the Intra V20 Gold is designed to deliver superior performance without range anxiety.
Design: Premium Style, Robust Substance
The Intra V20 Gold exudes a sense of modern sophistication and ruggedness. Its design is both stylish and functional, featuring a large 2690 mm (8.8 ft) loading deck capable of handling its full 1.2-tonne payload. The chassis is supported by a robust semi-elliptical leaf spring suspension, ensuring it can handle heavy loads with excellent stability. The cabin is spacious and ergonomically designed, reflecting the premium aspect of its ‘Premium Tough’ DNA.
High Payload Capacity:
A massive 1200 kg payload and a large loading area allow for higher earnings on every trip.
Durable Construction:
A strong hydro-formed chassis and a robust leaf spring suspension ensure reliability and stability under heavy loads.
Performance: The Unmatched Power of Bi-Fuel
The Intra V20 Gold’s biggest strength is its powerful and versatile 1.2L, 3-cylinder engine. In petrol mode, it unleashes a mighty 43 kW (58.4 HP) and a class-leading torque of 106 Nm. In CNG mode, it delivers a still-impressive 39 kW (53 HP) and 95 Nm of torque for maximum fuel economy. This dual-fuel capability, combined with a 5-speed gearbox and a top speed of 80 km/h, ensures powerful performance in any situation, from city streets to highways.
Class-Leading Torque:
With 106 Nm of torque in petrol mode, the Intra V20 Gold offers superior pulling power and quicker acceleration.
Bi-Fuel Advantage:
Seamlessly switch between economical CNG and powerful petrol for the perfect blend of performance and savings.
Comfort: Fatigue-Free Driving, Guaranteed
The Intra V20 Gold is designed to keep the driver comfortable and productive. The spacious, walk-through cabin is equipped with Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), which significantly reduces steering effort and provides a car-like driving experience. The dashboard-mounted gear lever frees up cabin space and is easy to reach. These features, combined with comfortable seats with headrests, make the Intra V20 Gold a fatigue-free vehicle for long hauls and city traffic alike.
Technology: Smart, Efficient, and Connected
As India’s first bi-fuel pickup, the Intra V20 Gold is packed with smart technology. The key highlight is its ability to run on both CNG and petrol, offering a massive combined range of up to 800 km. It features a simple fuel change-over switch and a Gear Shift Advisor on its digital instrument cluster to help drivers achieve optimal fuel efficiency. This ensures uninterrupted operations and greater peace of mind.
Safety: Robust and Reassuring
The Intra V20 Gold is built on a foundation of safety. Its robust hydro-formed chassis is designed for maximum strength and durability. The braking system is highly effective, featuring disc brakes at the front for superior stopping power. The vehicle also incorporates specialized safety features for its bi-fuel system, including automatic fuel switching in case of a gas leak and an auto-cutoff for the CNG system upon ignition. Large mirrors and a wide windshield enhance visibility for safer driving.
Full Specifications Table: Tata Intra V20 Gold
Engine & Transmission
- Engine: 1199 CC NGNA CNG Engine, 3-Cylinder
- Power (Petrol): 43 kW (58.4 HP) @ 4000 RPM
- Power (CNG): 39 kW (53 HP) @ 4000 RPM
- Torque (Petrol): 106 Nm @ 1800-2200 RPM
- Torque (CNG): 95 Nm @ 1800-2200 RPM
- Steering: Electric power assisted
Suspension, Brakes & Tyres
- Front Suspension: Semi-elliptical leaf spring
- Rear Suspension: Semi-elliptical leaf spring
- Brakes: Front – Disc, Rear – Drum
- Tyres: 165 R14 LT 8PR (Tubeless)
Dimensions & Weights
- Wheelbase: 2450 mm
- Payload: 1200 Kg
- GVW: 2550 Kg
- Ground Clearance: 175 mm
- Turning Circle Radius: 5675 mm
Features & Ownership
- Fuel Tank: CNG: 80 L + Petrol: 35L
- Range: Up to 800 km
- Warranty: 3 years or 1,00,000 km
Comparisons: Intra V20 Gold vs The Competition
The Tata Intra V20 Gold sets a new benchmark in the bi-fuel pickup category. When compared to the Mahindra Supro CNG Duo, the Intra V20 Gold offers a significantly more powerful 1.2L engine, higher torque (106 Nm vs 78 Nm), and a much larger payload (1200 kg vs 750 kg). Against the Ashok Leyland BADA DOST CNG, the Intra V20 Gold’s primary advantage is its superior driver comfort, thanks to the standard Electric Power Steering (EPAS) and a more refined cabin experience.
Vs. Mahindra Supro CNG Duo:
More powerful engine and 60% higher payload capacity for superior performance and profitability.
Vs. Ashok Leyland BADA DOST CNG:
Superior driver comfort with standard Electric Power Steering and a more ergonomic cabin.
Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View
Pros:
- Massive 800 km Range: Bi-fuel system provides unparalleled freedom from range anxiety.
- Powerful Performance: Class-leading torque and a high payload capacity of 1200 kg.
- Car-like Comfort: Electric Power Steering and a premium cabin make for a fatigue-free drive.
- Robust and Reliable: Built on the ‘Premium Tough’ philosophy with a strong chassis and suspension.
Cons:
- D+1 Seating Only: Does not offer the D+2 seating found in some other Intra models.
- No Airbag Option: Lacks the option for an airbag, a key safety feature.
Who Is This Vehicle For? Tailored Recommendations
The Tata Intra V20 Gold is the perfect choice for:
- Long-Haul Operators: Who need the extended 800 km range for uninterrupted inter-city or highway routes.
- Businesses Needing Power & Economy: Who want the high torque of petrol for heavy loads and the low cost of CNG for regular use.
- Owner-Drivers Valuing Comfort: Who will benefit greatly from the Electric Power Steering and premium cabin on long journeys.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Bi-Fuel Pickup for an Anxiety-Free Drive
The Tata Intra V20 Gold is a true game-changer, setting a new standard for what a pickup can offer. As India’s first bi-fuel pickup, it provides an unparalleled combination of long-range, powerful performance, and fuel economy. It perfectly embodies the ‘Premium Tough’ philosophy by delivering a robust, high-payload vehicle that doesn’t compromise on driver comfort. For any business that needs to cover long distances without range anxiety, while still demanding power and profitability, the Intra V20 Gold isn’t just an option—it’s the definitive solution.
Overall Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0 (For its Segment)
