Tata Altroz Facelift : In the fiercely competitive premium hatchback segment, the Tata Altroz has carved out a respected position since its 2020 debut.
Now, with the launch of the 2025 facelift on May 22, Tata Motors has given its contender a comprehensive update that aims to strengthen its appeal against established rivals like the Maruti Baleno, Hyundai i20, and Toyota Glanza.
This mid-life refresh brings significant changes to the exterior styling, interior amenities, and feature list, while maintaining the solid foundations that made the original Altroz a compelling option.
Tata Altroz Facelift Design Evolution: Sharper and More Premium
The 2025 Altroz facelift demonstrates Tata’s philosophy of evolution rather than revolution. The basic silhouette remains familiar, but numerous design changes collectively deliver a more upmarket and contemporary appearance.
The front fascia receives considerable attention with new dual-pod LED headlamps flanked by sleek LED daytime running lights that lend a sharper, more aggressive look.
The redesigned front bumper with pixel-type LED fog lamps adds to the premium character, while a new 3D front grille enhances the hatchback’s road presence.
Moving to the side profile, one of the most striking additions is the introduction of flush-type door handles with illumination for the front doors – a segment-first feature that elevates the car’s premium quotient.
The rear door handles remain integrated into the C-pillars, maintaining the coupe-like appearance that has always been part of the Altroz’s appeal. New 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with a diamond-cut finish add a touch of sophistication to the side view.
At the rear, the Altroz facelift sports newly designed LED taillights connected by a light bar that spans the width of the tailgate, creating a distinctive signature, especially at night.
The rear bumper has also been redesigned with black elements that contribute to the car’s sportier stance. The evolutionary design approach ensures that the Altroz remains instantly recognizable while looking fresher and more upmarket than before.
The 2025 Altroz facelift is available in five color options: Dune Glow, Pristine White, Royal Blue, Ember Glow, and Pure Grey. Higher variants offer a dual-tone finish with a contrasting black roof, further enhancing the visual appeal.
Cabin Refinements: Enhanced Comfort and Technology
Step inside the 2025 Altroz, and you’ll notice that while the overall dashboard layout remains familiar, it has been significantly enhanced with premium materials and modern technology.
The most noticeable change is the dual-tone black and beige theme that replaces the all-black interior of the previous model. This new color scheme, which Tata calls “Grand Prestigia,” creates a more spacious and airy ambiance.
The dashboard features a large expanse of gloss black trim in the center, outlined by a thin copper-colored accent strip and ambient lighting that elevates the cabin atmosphere, particularly during night driving.
The HVAC controls have been updated with a touch-based panel that replaces the physical buttons of the outgoing model, lending a more contemporary feel to the center console.
One of the most significant interior upgrades is the adoption of Tata’s new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo, similar to the one found in the Nexon.
The front seats have been redesigned for better comfort, while the rear bench now offers extended under-thigh support, addressing a common criticism of the previous model.
The 90-degree wide-opening doors – a feature carried over from the earlier Altroz – continue to provide easy ingress and egress, particularly useful in tight parking spaces.
Technology and Features: Setting New Benchmarks
The 2025 Altroz facelift establishes new standards in the premium hatchback segment with its comprehensive feature list. The headline additions include dual 10.25-inch displays – one for the infotainment system and another for the driver’s instrumentation.
The touchscreen infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, while the fully digital driver’s display is a segment-first feature that can show various information including navigation and blind spot monitoring feed.
Another notable addition is the single-pane electric sunroof with voice command operation – a feature increasingly demanded by Indian consumers across segments. The automatic climate control system now comes with rear AC vents, improving comfort for back-seat passengers.
Other premium features include a wireless smartphone charger, cruise control, an air purifier, push-button start/stop, auto-folding ORVMs, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, and an 8-speaker sound system by Harman.
The connected car technology has been enhanced to offer remote functions through a smartphone app, allowing owners to monitor vehicle status, location, and even operate certain features remotely.
USB Type-C ports replace the older USB-A ports, reflecting the changing charging needs of modern smartphones.
Safety: Continuing Tata’s Strong Legacy
Tata Motors has built a reputation for safety-focused vehicles, and the 2025 Altroz facelift continues this tradition with an impressive array of safety features.
Most notably, six airbags come as standard equipment across all variants – front, side, and curtain – setting a new baseline for safety in this segment.
Other standard safety features include ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat anchorages. Higher variants add a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and a 360-degree camera with a blind spot monitor that displays feeds from the ORVM cameras on the digital instrument cluster when the turn indicators are activated.
While the facelifted Altroz hasn’t been crash-tested yet, the pre-facelift model secured a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP in 2020 under the older testing protocol.
Given the structural similarities and enhanced safety features, the new Altroz is expected to maintain this high safety standard when it undergoes the newer, more stringent BNCAP (Bharat New Car Assessment Program) testing.
Powertrain Options: Versatility for Every Need
The 2025 Altroz facelift continues to offer one of the most diverse powertrain lineups in its segment, with petrol, diesel, and CNG options to cater to different customer preferences.
The base engine is a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol unit that produces 88 PS of power and 115 Nm of torque. This engine can be paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or, new for the facelift model, a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission).
The DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) option introduced earlier continues to be available and now comes with paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience.
For those seeking better fuel efficiency, the Altroz is available with a CNG option paired to the same 1.2-liter petrol engine. In CNG mode, this powertrain produces 73.5 PS and 103 Nm of torque, offering a claimed fuel efficiency of up to 26.90 km/kg. The CNG variant features Tata’s twin-cylinder technology, which preserves a significant portion of the boot space – an advantage over many other CNG vehicles.
The Altroz remains the only car in its segment to offer a diesel engine – a 1.5-liter turbocharged unit that delivers 90 PS and 200 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission. This option caters to customers who prioritize long-distance fuel efficiency and torque-rich performance.
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Transmission Options | Fuel Efficiency (Claimed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 1.2L | 88 PS | 115 Nm | 5-speed MT / 5-speed AMT / 6-speed DCT | 18-19 km/l |
| Petrol+CNG | 1.2L | 73.5 PS (CNG mode) | 103 Nm (CNG mode) | 5-speed MT | 26.90 km/kg |
| Diesel | 1.5L | 90 PS | 200 Nm | 5-speed MT | 23-25 km/l |
Dimensions and Practicality: Unchanged but Adequate
The 2025 Altroz facelift maintains the same dimensions as its predecessor, with a length of 3990mm, width of 1755mm, and height of 1523mm.
The 2501mm wheelbase provides adequate interior space, particularly for front and rear passengers, though the middle rear seat remains better suited for occasional use due to the raised floor tunnel.
The boot capacity remains unchanged at 345 liters for the petrol and diesel variants, which is adequate though not class-leading. The CNG variant offers 210 liters of boot space – still usable for everyday needs and more generous than many other CNG vehicles thanks to the twin-cylinder technology.
The 37-liter fuel tank provides a reasonable driving range, especially in the diesel and CNG variants with their superior fuel efficiency.
Ground clearance stands at 165mm, which is sufficient for Indian road conditions in most scenarios, though some competitors offer slightly higher clearance. The turning radius of 5.0 meters facilitates easy maneuverability in tight urban environments.
Variants and Pricing: Comprehensive Range
The 2025 Tata Altroz facelift is offered in seven variants: Smart, Pure, Pure S, Creative, Creative S, Accomplished S, and Accomplished Plus S. Prices start at Rs. 6.89 lakh for the base Smart variant and go up to Rs. 11.49 lakh for the top-end Accomplished Plus S with the DCT transmission (all prices ex-showroom, introductory).
The variant structure has been carefully crafted to provide meaningful feature upgrades at each step.
The Pure S variant is particularly interesting as it is the most affordable variant to offer a sunroof – a feature that has become increasingly important for many Indian car buyers. The Creative variants balance features and value, while the Accomplished variants offer the full suite of premium features.
Not all powertrain options are available across all variants. The base Smart variant is limited to the petrol-manual combination, while the top-of-the-line Accomplished Plus S DCT is only available with the petrol-DCT powertrain. The diesel engine is available in the mid-range variants, catering to customers who prioritize fuel efficiency and long-distance driving comfort.
Driving Experience: Refined and Comfortable
While the basic driving characteristics of the Altroz remain similar to the pre-facelift model, Tata has made some refinements to enhance the overall experience.
The naturally aspirated petrol engine, while not the most powerful in its class, provides adequate performance for city driving and occasional highway trips.
The new AMT option makes the car more accessible to those seeking an automatic transmission at a lower price point, while the DCT continues to offer smoother and quicker shifts for a more premium driving experience.
The diesel engine remains a highlight for those who regularly undertake long journeys, offering strong mid-range torque and excellent fuel efficiency.
The CNG variant, while naturally showing some performance deficit compared to pure petrol mode, delivers acceptable drivability with the significant advantage of lower running costs.
Ride quality has always been a strong point of the Altroz, with its ability to absorb road imperfections while maintaining composure at higher speeds.
The suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and handling, though it’s tuned more toward the former. The steering, while not particularly sporty, offers decent feedback and precision for everyday driving scenarios.
NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels have reportedly seen some improvement in the facelift model, particularly in terms of wind and road noise isolation at highway speeds. However, the three-cylinder petrol engine’s characteristic thrum remains noticeable, especially under hard acceleration.
Market Positioning and Competition
The 2025 Tata Altroz facelift enters a competitive segment dominated by established players like the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Hyundai i20, and Toyota Glanza. However, it brings several unique selling propositions to the table:
Safety Focus: With six airbags as standard across all variants and a proven 5-star crash safety rating (for the pre-facelift model), the Altroz stands out as one of the safest hatchbacks in its class.
Powertrain Diversity: It is the only premium hatchback to offer petrol, diesel, and CNG options, catering to various customer preferences and usage patterns.
Segment-First Features: The fully digital driver’s display, illuminated flush door handles, and blind spot camera integration are features not commonly found in this segment.
Bold Design: The Altroz continues to offer one of the more distinctive designs in its class, now enhanced with premium elements like connected LED lighting and flush door handles.
The Altroz’s pricing strategy places it competitively against its rivals, though it does command a slight premium for equivalent variants. However, this premium is often justified by the additional features and powertrain options not available in competing models.
Who Should Consider the 2025 Altroz Facelift?
The 2025 Tata Altroz facelift makes a compelling case for several types of buyers:
Safety-Conscious Customers: Those who prioritize safety features and crash protection will appreciate the Altroz’s focus on occupant safety, with standard six airbags and robust structural integrity.
Feature Enthusiasts: Buyers who value modern technology and convenience features will find the dual digital displays, connected car technology, and comprehensive comfort features appealing.
Long-Distance Travelers: The diesel variant, with its excellent fuel efficiency and torque-rich performance, makes the Altroz an ideal companion for those who frequently undertake highway journeys.
Budget-Conscious Premium Buyers: The lower variants offer a good balance of essential features and build quality at a relatively accessible price point, making premium hatchback ownership more attainable.
CNG Users: Those looking for a premium hatchback with factory-fitted CNG will find the Altroz one of the few options in this segment, offering the advantage of lower running costs without significant compromise on boot space.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Striking design with premium elements like flush door handles and connected LED lighting
Comprehensive safety package with six airbags as standard
Diverse powertrain options including petrol, diesel, and CNG
Feature-rich cabin with dual 10.25-inch displays
Strong build quality and proven crash safety credentials
Spacious interior with comfortable seating
Twin-cylinder CNG technology preserves usable boot space
Cons:
Three-cylinder petrol engine lacks the refinement of some competitors
AMT transmission, while convenient, doesn’t match the smoothness of CVTs offered by rivals
Ground clearance of 165mm is adequate but not class-leading
Middle rear seat comfort compromised by floor tunnel
Some premium features restricted to top variants
Service network not as extensive as some competitors
Tata Altroz Facelift Conclusion: A Thoughtful Evolution
The 2025 Tata Altroz facelift represents a thoughtful evolution of what was already a compelling premium hatchback.
Rather than making radical changes, Tata Motors has addressed key areas for improvement while building on the existing strengths of solid build quality, safety focus, and distinctive design.
The addition of modern features like dual digital displays, sunroof, and flush door handles brings the Altroz up to date with current market expectations, while the expanded transmission options make it accessible to a broader range of customers.
By maintaining its unique selling propositions of diverse powertrain options and safety focus, the Altroz continues to differentiate itself in a crowded segment.
For potential buyers, the 2025 Altroz facelift merits serious consideration, particularly for those who value safety, build quality, and feature richness over outright performance.
The introductory pricing, starting at Rs. 6.89 lakh and going up to Rs. 11.49 lakh (ex-showroom), positions it competitively against established rivals, making it an even more compelling option in the premium hatchback space.
As Tata Motors continues to strengthen its passenger vehicle portfolio, the refreshed Altroz demonstrates the company’s commitment to staying relevant and competitive through thoughtful updates that enhance the overall ownership experience.
In a market where consumer preferences are rapidly evolving, the 2025 Altroz facelift strikes a good balance between tradition and innovation, likely ensuring its continued success in the premium hatchback segment.