With the all new Tata Bolt ready to make it big in the B-Class hatchback space, Tata Motors has stopped the production of the Vista hatchback at its plant. The move only seems logical as the Bolt is a far better looking and well equipped product that will be catering to a wider market across the nation. Tata however has stopped the production of the Vista BSIV diesel model that was powered by the 1.3-litre Quadrajet engine (MultiJet from Fiat) producing around 75 PS of power, and will continue to produce the Vista with the TDI engine in the base LS variant for sometime before axing the Vista completely next year.
The Tata Vista LS TDI is powered by a 1405cc 4-cylinder, turbo intercooled diesel engine that produces 71 PS at 4500 RPM and 135.4 Nm of torque at 2500 RPM. The engine however is a BSIII compliant and cannot be sold in major cities. Tata is likely targeting the cab market in tier-II and III cities with the Vista LS variant. The Vista is a spacious car on the inside and the LS is a rather no nonsense version. You do get basic features like power steering, manual air-conditioning, dual tone interiors, multi trip metre, digital clock, driver information system and engine immobiliser that should keep the cab drivers and passengers happy.
Along with discontinuing the Vista, Tata Motors will stop providing the spare bulb kit with the Vista and Manza models at the time of delivery further onwards, as part of a cost cutting strategy. The Indian car maker has been realigning its strategies and managing its expenses in a bid to resurrect its market share and stop losses. The company has heavily invested on the Bolt and Zest cars that are one of the first of the many new launches expected from the company.
The Bolt is expected to be launched in the coming weeks and will be available with two engine options. The 1.2-litre home grown Revotron petrol engine produces 85 PS and 140 Nm of torque, while the 1.3-litre Quadrajet diesel produces 75 PS and 190 Nm of torque. Both the engines are mated to a 5-speed manual, while the diesel variant will also get an AMT gearbox making it the cheapest diesel automatic in the country. Tata Motors is planning to undercut the segment leader, Maruti Swift that starts at Rs. 4.4 lakhs. The base variant of the Bolt with the Revotron motor is expected to be priced around Rs. 4.2 lakhs (ex-showroom) when launched. The Vista LS TDI is priced at Rs. 4.78 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Update – In an email communication to us, Tata Motors has denied stopping production of the Vista hatchback. The company mentions there is no change in the production plans of the Vista.
