Showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo, the Tata Nano Twist Active was spotted testing by Motoroids reader Omkar Kulkarni. The Nano Twist Active gets an updated design and styling while the highlight is the inclusion of the new F-Tronic automated manual transmission (AMT) and a functional boot-lid. Mr. Kulkarni caught not only the exteriors of the car, but also the interiors featuring the new AMT gearbox. Also caught testing was the Zest compact sedan along featuring a different grille.
The Tata Nano Twist Active gets an updated front fascia with a revised headlight cluster, new bumper and new hood. The concept model also incorporated fog-lights in the bumper, which we hope makes it to the production model as well. The car will also come with a revised set of tail lights and a new bumper. On the inside, the Nano Twist Active will get an Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) that is currently available on the Nano Twist model; as well as an updated dashboard, instrument cluster and new beige upholstery.
The much needed functional boot-lid will add an extra 80 kgs to the weight of the car. However, the boot will be more easily accessible this time around. The fuel economy is expected to drop marginally due to the added weight, but Tata has increased the size of the fuel tank from 15-litres to 25-litres for a better range. The AMT gearbox that will feature on the Twist Active is very much similar to the one found on the Maruti Celerio AMT version. When launched, the Nano Twist Active would be the cheapest automatic vehicle on sale in India.
Rumours also suggest that the Twist Active variant will get an all-new 3-cylinder petrol engine that will be producing around 67 PS of power. The car could also be updated with front disc brakes for enhanced stopping power and a revamped suspension setup. Expect the Twist Active variant to sport a premium price tag compared to other Nano variants and will be competing with the Maruti Alto, Hyundai Eon and Datsun GO in the segment. The AMT gearbox will surely give it an upper hand though.
Tata’s new strategy with the Nano is to remove the ‘cheap’ tag from its profile and market the vehicle as a youthful and vibrant product. The bigger engine will also add to the Nano’s appeal, which although is an excellent city car always felt under powered. The company is taking every effort possible, leaving no stone unturned to make its products a success in the market. The new Twist Active model is expected to hit showrooms by the end of 2014 or by early 2015; the diesel Nano though is still on hold at the moment.
Spy Pictures Source – Motoroids