Tata Motors will launch the Punch facelift on January 13, 2026, featuring a new turbo-petrol engine, EV-inspired design, upgraded interiors, and six airbags as standard. With six trims and advanced features, the refreshed Punch aims to outshine rivals like Hyundai Exter and Maruti Fronx in the sub-4m SUV segment.
Tata Motors is gearing up for a major refresh of its popular micro-SUV, the Punch, with the facelifted model set to launch on January 13, 2026. Since its debut in 2021, the Punch has become one of Tata’s best-selling vehicles, and this facelift marks its most significant update yet.
Design and Styling
The new Punch adopts a modern EV-inspired design language, borrowing cues from the Punch EV and Nexon. The front fascia now features vertically stacked trapezoidal LED headlamps, a slimmer grille, and piano black accents. Redesigned skid plates and a sharper bumper further enhance its sporty appeal.
Powertrain Upgrade
For the first time, the Punch will be offered with Tata’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, delivering more power and performance. This addition is expected to appeal to younger buyers seeking spirited driving, while the existing naturally aspirated petrol engine remains available for budget-conscious customers.
Interiors and Features
Inside, the facelift introduces a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 360-degree camera, and premium upholstery. Tata has also prioritized safety, making six airbags standard across all trims, a move that sets a new benchmark in the segment.
Market Positioning
With rivals like the Hyundai Exter, Maruti Fronx, and Citroen C3 intensifying competition, Tata’s facelifted Punch aims to retain its dominance by offering a blend of style, performance, and safety. The six-trim lineup ensures options for every buyer, from entry-level to premium.
Key Highlights
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Launch date: January 13, 2026.
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Design refresh: EV-inspired front fascia, slimmer grille, vertically stacked LED headlamps, piano black accents.
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Engine upgrade: New 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine (borrowed from Nexon), alongside existing options.
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Variants: Six trims – Smart, Pure, Pure+, Adventure, Accomplished, and Accomplished+ S.
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Interior upgrades: 10.25-inch touchscreen, 360-degree camera, premium upholstery.
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Safety: Six airbags standard across variants, improved crash protection.
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Competition: Hyundai Exter, Maruti Fronx, Citroen C3.
Conclusion
The Tata Punch facelift represents a bold step forward, combining EV-inspired styling, a turbo-petrol engine, and enhanced safety features. Launching on January 13, 2026, it is poised to strengthen Tata’s foothold in the micro-SUV market, appealing to both first-time buyers and enthusiasts.
Sources: NDTV Auto, Financial ExpressThe Financial Express, India TV News, CarDekhoCarDekho, Economic Times
