The Tata Nano XE variant is the most affordable car in India to come equipped with a power steering but misses out on several creature comforts to keep costs under check.
Tata Motors has been striving hard to make the ambitious Nano a success. Moving away from the ‘cheap car’ tag, the automaker has been marketing the product as a well equipped city car that manages decent interior space, fuel efficiency and creature comforts at an affordable price tag. Moving on the same lines, Tata has launched the new Nano XE variant priced at Rs. 2.06 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi), it comes equipped with a power steering unit.
The Tata Nano XE follows the XT (XT – Xtreme Edition) variant that was launched last year and comes equipped with a power steering. The Nano XE, however, has been priced very aggressively and is now the most affordable vehicle in the country to get a power steering unit. The variant was developed after feedback from drivers who found it difficult to use the regular steering wheel that is heavy in comparison. Tata is specifically targeting young city drivers with the new XE version.
While the Tata Nano XT was loaded with all the bells and whistles, the Nano XE is a significant Rs. 40,000/- cheaper in comparison and loses out on quite a few creature comforts in comparison. To begin with, the price cut leaves out fog lamps, keyless entry, dash integrated music system, heater, front power windows, 12V socket as well as magazine and coin holders. Also missing on the Nano XE is the roof beading, roof spoiler and roof mounted antenna to save costs.
In terms of aesthetics, the bare bones Tata Nano XE differentiates itself from the XT with black bumpers, door handles and misses out on chrome strips at the front and rear. The XE is only offered in three colour options namely Pearl White, Meteor Silver and Royal Gold thereby missing out on the Damson Purple and Dazzle Blue that will now be available only on the XT trim. The powertrain remains the same 624cc engine producing 38 HP and 51 Nm of torque, paired to a 4-speed manual gearbox.
Tata is trying very hard to ensure the success of the Nano with sales stagnant over months. The Nano is also in the doldrums with reports of the project being shut down on account of under performance. Nonetheless, the automaker has a host of new variants planned that will help revive sales and includes a tailgate opening version, AMT equipped version while a major facelift is also on the cards.
