Tata Motors have introduced the Zest, a compact sedan with turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, offering an auto ‘box on the oil-burner. Will it be a game-changer? We find out.The Indian small car and compact sedan markets have always been two very bustling segments, whether or not there is an economic disaster in process. There are several global companies vying for the top spot here, and even if they don’t manage to dent top spot, they get away with decent numbers if the product presents itself as a viable alternative with a more or less better focus than its primary target. Tata did that years ago. Remember that rather big small car armed with a naturally aspirated diesel engine that took the market by storm, fighting off the Japanese and the Koreans in the process? Yes, it was Tata who put their name on the global map, and now they’re up to something yet again.
At the Auto Expo in Delhi earlier this year, Tata Motors showcased a new concept, called the Nexon, and also a Bolt and a Zest, the latter of which is the hero for the next few pages. The Zest is a compact sedan that has been created keeping the current – and maybe even the future – market in mind. It brings in several features which until now were confined to the higher C- and even D-segment models. It comes with a fresh face while retaining the family look, but of more interest are the changes inside and under the skin.
A look at the Zest and the first thing I noticed were the projector headlamps. It also has LED daytime running lights, which I’m sure will go down well with the target audience. The LED tail-lamp cluster is also a very attractive unit and will lend the Zest a unique signature after dark. Inside, the car has received a thorough revamp. The centre console in the top-end XT model is all new and features a multimedia touch interface developed in collaboration with Harman. The sound system features eight speakers – four speakers and four tweeters – for a surround sound experience. The voice-controls have been created after extensive testing with 70 different citizens and a range of dialects, and Tata Motors are confident that it will make journeys not just more comfortable, but a lot safer too.
Speaking of safety, the Zest actually brings in an appreciable amount of kit. The top-end car is equipped with dual front airbags and Gen-9 ABS from Bosch. The updated anti-lock braking system features EBD and Corner Braking Control to improve stability when cornering tight. Moreover, it is standard in the top and middle variants. There is a new ePAS or electronic power steering with speed-sensitive operation which uses a new setup of brushless motors to improve steering weight while retaining a good amount of feel. It has also been made smaller to be a tad more comfortable.
The comfort factor continues with the seats offering good support. There is good room in the rear too for a car in this segment. Small details such as adjustable headrests front and rear add to the comfort and safety factors in equal proportion. Visibility is good and you don’t feel cramped in the least. There is enough usable storage space in the cubby-holes and door pockets. The boot is rather voluminous, but the high load-line can make loading big and heavy bags a sweaty job.
