Tata Motors is doubling down on its segment leader - the Tata Punch with facelifted ICE and EV versions slated for launch in late 2025.
Introduction: Compact SUVs, Reimagined
In a market where compact SUVs dominate urban roads and rural trails alike, Tata Motors is doubling down on its segment leader – the Tata Punch with facelifted ICE and EV versions slated for launch in late 2025. These updates aim to inject fresh design, smarter tech, and enhanced practicality into a model that already commands over 38% market share in the sub-compact SUV segment.
Table of Contents
The Punch EV, launched in early 2024, has already earned a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, making it India’s safest electric car under ₹20 lakh. Now, with both ICE and EV facelifts on the horizon, Tata is poised to redefine what value-packed, sustainable mobility looks like.
Feature Chart: Punch ICE vs Punch EV Facelift (Expected)
| Feature Category | Punch ICE Facelift | Punch EV Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.2L NA Petrol / CNG | 25kWh & 35kWh Battery Packs |
| Transmission | 5MT / AMT (CNG AMT expected) | Single-speed Automatic |
| Power Output | 88PS (Petrol), 74PS (CNG) | 82PS (MR), 122PS (LR) |
| Range | ~400 km (CNG) | 315–421 km (MIDC) |
| Infotainment | 10.25″ Touchscreen (ICE) | 10.25″–12.3″ Touchscreen (EV) |
| Safety | 6 Airbags, ESC, TPMS | 6 Airbags, ESC, ADAS, 360° Camera |
| Sunroof | Electric (ICE & EV) | Electric with voice assist |
| Interior | Illuminated logo, digital cluster | Arcade.ev suite, ventilated seats |
| Safety Rating | 5-star Global NCAP (ICE) | 5-star Bharat NCAP |
| Charging | N/A | DC Fast Charging (10–80% in 56 mins) |
| Drive Modes | Eco, City | Eco, City, Sport |
Design & Styling: EV-Inspired Evolution
Both facelifts will borrow heavily from Tata’s new design language, seen on the Nexon and Harrier EV:
- Connected LED DRLs
- Split headlamp setup
- Flush door handles
- Redesigned bumpers and grille
- New alloy wheel designs
- Color Options: Glacier White, Seaweed Green, Empowered Oxide, Daytona Grey, Fearless Red
The ICE facelift will retain a conventional grille, while the EV will feature a closed-off front fascia for aerodynamic efficiency.
Infotainment & Connectivity
Punch ICE Facelift:
- 10.25″ Touchscreen (Harman)
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Digital instrument cluster
- Touch-based HVAC panel
- Illuminated Tata logo on steering
Punch EV Facelift:
- 12.3″ Cinematic Touchscreen (Harman)
- Arcade.ev app suite for OTT streaming
- 360° camera with blind spot monitoring
- Wireless charging, ventilated seats
- Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant integration
Variant-Wise Pricing (Expected)
Punch ICE Facelift:
| Variant | Fuel Type | Estimated Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Smart | Petrol | ₹6.00 – ₹6.50 Lakh |
| Pure | Petrol/CNG | ₹6.80 – ₹7.30 Lakh |
| Creative | Petrol/CNG | ₹8.00 – ₹8.50 Lakh |
| Fearless | Petrol/CNG | ₹9.50 – ₹10.50 Lakh |
Punch EV Facelift:
| Variant | Battery Pack | Estimated Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Smart | 25kWh | ₹9.99 – ₹11.14 Lakh |
| Adventure | 25kWh / 35kWh | ₹11.84 – ₹12.64 Lakh |
| Empowered | 35kWh | ₹13.14 – ₹14.44 Lakh |
Note: Prices are ex-showroom estimates and may vary by region and configuration.
Launch Timeline & Availability
- Punch ICE Facelift: Expected launch in November 2025
- Punch EV Facelift: Expected launch in December 2025
- Booking Window: Likely to open 4–6 weeks prior
- Availability: Pan-India rollout with metro-first strategy
- Rivals:
- ICE: Hyundai Exter, Maruti Fronx, Renault Kiger
- EV: Citroen eC3, MG Comet EV, Nexon EV MR
Safety Ratings & Tech
The Punch EV has already achieved:
- 5-star Bharat NCAP rating
- 31.46/32 for Adult Occupant Protection
- 45/49 for Child Occupant Protection
Expected safety features across both facelifts:
- 6 airbags standard
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- ISOFIX mounts
- Hill-hold assist
- TPMS
- SOS calling
- Blind spot monitoring
- 360° camera (EV only)
EV-Specific Enhancements
The Punch EV Facelift will likely retain its Acti.ev platform, but may introduce:
- Improved battery management software
- Faster charging speeds
- Digital key & DrivePay integration
- Enhanced regenerative braking with paddle shifters
- Larger infotainment screen with Dolby Atmos audio
2025 Tata Nexon Unleashed: India’s Safest SUV Gets Smarter, Sharper, and Stronger
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the launch timeline for the Tata Punch and Punch EV facelifts?
Both models are expected to launch in Q4 2025, with bookings likely to open by September 2025
What are the key design changes in the 2025 facelifts?
Expect a refreshed front fascia, connected LED DRLs, new alloy wheels, and updated rear styling for both ICE and EV variants.
What powertrain options will be available in the Punch EV facelift?
The EV will retain its 25kWh and 35kWh battery packs, but may adopt Nexon EV’s larger battery for extended range and faster charging.
What is the expected range of the Punch EV facelift?
The updated EV could offer up to 365-400 km of real-world range, depending on battery configuration and driving mode.
Will the ICE Punch facelift get a new engine?
No major engine changes are expected. It will continue with the 1.2L Revotron petrol engine, tuned for better efficiency and refinement.
What are the standout interior upgrades?
Both variants will feature:
10.25-inch infotainment screen
Digital instrument cluster
2-spoke illuminated steering wheel
Ventilated seats, sunroof, and ambient lighting
What safety features will be included?
Expect 6 airbags, ESP, TPMS, hill-hold assist, and 360-degree camera. The Punch EV retains its 5-star Bharat NCAP rating.
What is the price range for the facelifted models?
Punch ICE: ₹6.20–₹7.50 lakh (ex-showroom)
Punch EV: ₹9.99–₹14.44 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on variant and battery pack
Will the Punch EV facelift support fast charging?
Yes, it will continue to offer 7.2kW AC charging and DC fast charging, with potential upgrades for quicker top-ups.
How do the facelifted Punch models compare to rivals?
They compete with Hyundai Exter, Maruti Fronx, and Citroen eC3, offering a unique blend of style, tech, and safety in the compact SUV segment.