Tata Altroz Racer automatic to likely get the 7-speed DCA transmission
Tata Motors is contemplating the introduction of an automatic gearbox for its recently launched Altroz Racer, currently available only with a manual transmission. According to Vivek Srivatsa, Tata Motors’ Chief Commercial Officer, the decision depends on market demand.
The Altroz Racer is powered by a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 120 HP and 170 Nm torque, coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It might soon be equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCA). This gearbox is already in use with the Nexon’s 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine and the standard Altroz’s petrol variant. This move could enhance the Racer’s competitiveness against its primary rival, the Hyundai i20 N Line, which offers both 6-speed manual and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic options.
The decision to initially launch the Altroz Racer with a manual gearbox was driven by the need for a swift market entry and the relatively lower development costs and time associated with manual transmissions. Srivatsa emphasised that their primary goal was to ensure the Altroz Racer reached customers quickly.
Tata Motors has positioned the Altroz Racer at a very competitive price point. The entry-level variant is priced at Rs. 9.49 lakhs (ex-showroom), undercutting the base model of the i20 N Line by Rs. 50,000/-. Even the top-end variant of the Altroz Racer, at Rs. 10.99 lakhs (ex-showroom), is priced Rs. 28,000/- lower than the range-topping i20 N Line N8 MT.
In addition to competitive pricing, Tata Motors has equipped the Altroz Racer with several new features. These include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with a new operating system, 360-degree camera, 7-inch instrument cluster and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Altroz Racer also features segment-first ventilated seats.
While Tata Motors is optimistic about the Altroz Racer’s market performance, aiming to match or surpass the sales of the i20 N Line, the potential addition of an automatic transmission could further strengthen its position. The homegrown manufacturer is keen on capturing a larger market share and providing more options to its customers, ensuring that the Altroz Racer remains a formidable contender in the sporty hatchback segment.
