One of the highlights is the début of Tata’s Revotron engine family. In the Zest, power comes from a 1.2-litre turbocharged, SOHC eight-valve motor which makes 90 PS at 5,000 RPM and 140 Nm of torque from 1,500 RPM. The engine is paired to a five-speed manual ‘box, but the interesting bit is the addition of driving modes. ‘City’ mode is the default, which balances performance and fuel efficiency. ‘Eco’ and ‘Sport’ modes are also available to maximise efficiency or performance respectively. The Revotron engine uses smart ignition maps to deliver improved feel according to the drive mode selected.
On the move, the Zest is a comfortable car. The driveability of the Revotron cannot be denied: low-end torque has received a big boost, literally, and that means less frequent gear shifts. The ‘Eco’ mode uses a relaxed ignition map, though I didn’t find much of a difference between ‘City’ and ‘Sport’ other than a slight urgency in the latter. One outstanding aspect, though, is the braking. It was a rainy day in Goa and the handling, even in wet conditions, was good. The new Bosch ABS lends an elevated level of assurance when braking hard, even at highway speeds.
Tata Motors also had the Zest diesel model for us to try out: the mid-range XMA variant. The tried and tested Quadrajet 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel motor powers this model, with Manza-spec peak 90 PS and 200 Nm of torque. The most interesting aspect, however, is the gearbox: the new F-tronic automated manual transmission marks the arrival of India’s first truly affordable diesel automatic car – something many feel was sorely missing, with no major manufacturers taking the step to introduce a model for whatever reason.
The F-tronic uses a hydraulically-operated shifter with pre-programmed shift points and claims to deliver the fuel efficiency of a manual transmission. When you’re easy with your right foot, the five-speed unit shifts cleanly and progressively. Step on it, though, and there is a noticeable delay between shifts while the engine stays on the boil. Thankfully, the 200 Nm of torque makes sure you don’t feel too let down at any point. The diesel is actually less vocal than the petrol.
In terms of practicality, the Zest offers a good amount of space and equipment. The focus on quality is evident, but so far as feel goes, Tata can still do better as they move up the ladder to compete with the Koreans as well as the Germans. That said, the Zest is a step up from what we’ve seen thus far. We just hope that Tata Motors can deliver the final salvo with a price-tag that gets eyes wide open. A compact sedan with a choice of a turbo-petrol or an automatic diesel? About time!
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Rommel Albuquerque
