Despite being one of the more premium offerings in Tata Motors’ portfolio, the Altroz has often played second fiddle to more headline-grabbing models like the Nexon or the Punch. Since its debut, the Altroz hadn’t received the level of attention — or updates — that its segment rivals have enjoyed. That changed when Tata introduced the iCNG variant, complete with the brand’s clever dual-cylinder CNG system. It was a smart solution that preserved boot space, and it was my last proper interaction with the Altroz.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Altroz finally gets the makeover it has long deserved. From a distance, changes are subtle. You have to squint a little to spot the cosmetic tweaks, most of which are focussed on the front. A redesigned grille and new LED headlamps with a blacked-out strip connecting them add aggression and a premium edge. The profile remains largely unchanged, except for redesigned, aero-optimised wheel covers that resemble those found on EVs. At the rear, there’s more drama: a sculpted bumper, connected LED light bar, and a blacked-out treatment on the bumper for the higher trims. It gives the car an EV-like stance, and whispers of an Altroz EV down the line don’t seem far-fetched.
Another notable addition are the flush-fitting door handles with illuminated surrounds, which not only add sophistication but are also practical at night. Tata is also offering the Altroz in five colours: Dune Glow, Ember Glow, Pristine White, Pure Grey, and Royal Blue. Paired with dual-tone 16-inch alloys, the 2025 Altroz certainly looks the part.
Our first drive experience unfolded under dramatic Bengaluru skies, with monsoon clouds swirling overhead and occasional patches of blue offering cinematic flair. With the exterior updates done and dusted, it was time to climb inside and see what had changed where it counts.
Just like other recently updated Tata cars, the Altroz benefits from Tata’s ‘trickle-down cabinomics.’ The highlight is the new 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, borrowed from higher-end Tata models. The same goes for the fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster, available only on top trims. Lower variants get a mix of analogue and digital gauges, which still look quite contemporary.
The layout is cleaner, and thankfully, Tata has retained physical buttons for critical functions like temperature and fan speed. There should have been a rotary volume knob — instead, you get touchscreen-heavy controls, though at least there’s a volume rocker on the steering wheel. The Altroz has usable cupholders in the centre console, a basic yet essential feature that is missing in some other Tata models.
The updated steering wheel, now sporting an illuminated Tata logo, looks techy but is a magnet for fingerprints. It’s packed with physical controls, and while the finish could have been better, it’s functionally sound. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly and look crisp on the updated display.
Cabin quality has taken a noticeable step up. Soft-touch materials, improved plastics, and better upholstery make the interior feel more upmarket. In terms of comfort, Tata has clearly worked on seat support. Thigh support in both front and rear rows has improved, and this additional cushioning makes longer drives a more pleasant affair. Legroom is generous, and headroom is ample too — though the single-pane sunroof could have been upgraded to the panoramic unit available in the Curvv. That would have added not just more natural light, but also an extra dose of wow.
The boot is also worth mentioning. Despite the clever dual-cylinder layout in the iCNG variant, the Altroz still offers a usable 210 litres of boot space — ample for everyday luggage. The diesel variant we also tested offers a far roomier 345 litres. So spacious, in fact, that our photographer could almost climb in.
On refinement, the 2025 Altroz marks a clear evolution. NVH levels have improved significantly, and this contributes to a far more serene cabin experience. Everything feels just a bit more premium and tightly screwed together.
Under the hood, we had the chance to sample multiple powertrains. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers 86 bhp and is paired with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. We drove the manual variant, and while it won’t set your pulse racing, it feels refined and reliable. The clutch action is smooth, and gear shifts are slick. This powertrain won’t thrill enthusiasts, but it’s well-tuned for city commutes and occasional highway runs.
We then switched to the 1.5-litre diesel, which puts out 88 bhp and is mated to a manual gearbox. On the highway stretches near Bangalore airport, the diesel impressed. It’s torquey, tractable, and willing to pull even in higher gears. The diesel clatter is present when standing outside, but inside the cabin, the insulation is good enough to keep noise at bay. This version offers a satisfying balance of power and economy.
The third variant we drove was the iCNG. The 1.2-litre engine here is detuned to 74 PS, and while you do notice a marginal dip in responsiveness, particularly during hard throttle inputs, it’s surprisingly well-mannered. Tata’s dual-cylinder CNG layout doesn’t just preserve boot space; it helps with weight distribution too. The transition between petrol and CNG is seamless, and unlike many rivals, the Altroz iCNG doesn’t feel severely compromised in performance.
Speaking of economy, claimed fuel efficiency figures are as follows: 26.9 km/kg for the CNG, 23.6 kpl for the diesel, and though we couldn’t test the petrol extensively, real-world numbers should be in the 17–18 kpl ballpark. During our diesel run, despite heavy-footed highway driving, we managed a respectable 21.8 kpl—impressive by any standard.
The Tata Altroz continues to impress with its well-balanced ride and handling characteristics, making it one of the more composed hatchbacks in its segment. Built on the ALFA architecture, the car feels solid and planted at high speeds, with minimal body roll even during quick lane changes or tight corners. The suspension setup strikes a fine balance between comfort and control — absorbing potholes and rough patches with confidence, yet remaining taut enough to keep the car from feeling floaty on highways. The steering is light and predictable at low speeds, which makes city driving a breeze, but it also weighs up adequately as speeds rise, offering reassuring feedback.
Now, onto the trump card — safety. The Altroz has already earned a solid reputation here, with a Global NCAP 5-star rating for adult protection and 4 stars for child safety. Tata hasn’t confirmed if the updated model has been re-tested, but since the platform remains the same (ALFA architecture), we expect similar, if not improved, scores. Six airbags, ESP, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX mounts, and fog lamps round out the comprehensive safety package. If peace of mind is a priority, the Altroz delivers in spades.
At the end of the day, the 2025 Tata Altroz emerges as a far more rounded product. It looks sharper, feels more premium inside, and now comes loaded with tech and safety features that truly elevate its standing in the premium hatchback segment. And at an introductory price of ₹6.89 lakh (ex-showroom), it delivers outstanding value. Tata hasn’t just updated the Altroz—they’ve finally done it justice. It’s no longer a car you walk past in the showroom.
