KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- All-new 120 PS turbo-petrol engine introduced
- Six airbags now standard across all variants
- Larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity
- Premium interior with digital cluster & sunroof
- Sharper futuristic design inspired by Punch EV
Tata Punch Old Vs New: Tata Motors has officially pulled the wraps off the 2026 Punch facelift, and this update goes far beyond just cosmetic tweaks. While the outgoing Punch was already a strong seller thanks to its safety credentials, rugged stance, and value-for-money positioning, the new model aims to be more aspirational. With updated styling, a revamped interior, more features, and a new turbo-petrol engine, the Punch now wants to appeal to both the head and the heart. So what really changes? Let take a closer look, but before that make sure you become a part of our 91Wheels WhasApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
Read more: 2026 Tata Punch Launched At Rs. 5.59 Lakh (Ex-sh): All Details Here!
Exterior Design: Familiar Yet More Futuristic
The new Punch facelift draws inspiration from the Punch EV, and that influence is immediately visible. It still retains its upright, micro-SUV proportions, but now looks more modern and premium.
What's New
- Redesigned front fascia with sleeker LED DRLs
- Blacked-out surrounds for the DRLs
- New split headlamp layout with full LED units
- Dual-tone front bumper design
- New alloy wheel designs
- Connected LED tail-lamps at the rear
- Black panel running across the tailgate
- Revised rear bumper
Overall, while the silhouette remains unchanged, the facelift adds a sharper and more contemporary edge. The old Punch looked tough and utilitarian, whereas the new one looks more like a mix of ruggedness with a more tech-forward personality.
Interior: Same Layout, Much More Premium
On the inside, it clearly noticeable that Tata has focused heavily on modernising the cabin. The basic layout remains similar, but the execution has been significantly upgraded. Materials feel more premium, and the cabin now looks more in line with Tata's newer and pricier offerings.
The highlight is the new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo, which adds a sense of sophistication. The touchscreen has grown larger, now measuring 10.25 inches, and comes with refreshed graphics and a more intuitive interface. The fully digital instrument cluster also enhances the tech appeal. Even the upholstery has been updated, moving from a monotone theme to a dual-tone finish, making the cabin feel more youthful and stylish.
Features: A Segment Game-Changer
This is where the new Punch really pulls away from its predecessor. The older model was practical but not particularly feature-rich. The facelift changes that completely.
New Feature Additions
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- 360-degree camera system
- Automatic climate control
- Cruise control
- Hill descent control
- Single-pane sunroof
- Push-button start/stop
- Upgraded 6-speaker sound system
With these additions, the Punch now feels far more premium and tech-loaded than before. It no longer feels like a barebones entry-level SUV but rather a well-rounded urban vehicle.
Safety: Stronger Than Before
Safety has always been one of the Punch's biggest strengths, and Tata has made it even more solid this time. The facelift now gets six airbags as standard across all variants, which is a massive upgrade. It also comes with ESC, TPMS, rear parking camera, and ABS with EBD.
The old Punch already had a reputation for being safe, but the new one now sets an even higher benchmark in the segment.
Engines: The Biggest Upgrade
Mechanically, the headline update is the introduction of a new turbo-petrol engine. While the naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine continues with 88 PS and 115 Nm of torque, Tata has now added a more powerful 1.2-litre turbo-petrol unit producing 120 PS and 170 Nm of torque.
This makes the new Punch one of the most powerful cars in its class. The older model was focused more on city driving and efficiency, but the new turbo engine adds a layer of excitement and highway confidence that was previously missing. The CNG option will also continue (now with AMT gearbox as well) , making the Punch appealing to buyers who prioritise running costs.
Pricing and Positioning
Despite all these upgrades, Tata has managed to keep the pricing competitive, with the facelift starting at Rs. 5.59 lakh, which goes up to Rs. 8.99 lakh (ex-sh) for the range topping Accomplished +S variant. This makes it a strong value proposition, especially when you consider the new features and engine options.
Read more: Mahindra XUV 3XO EV Variantwise Features Explained
Verdict
The old Punch was a sensible choice - safe, practical, and rugged. The new Punch builds on those strengths while adding modern styling, more tech, better features, and a much stronger engine option.
In short, Tata hasn't just refreshed the Punch; it has evolved it. The facelift makes it more desirable, more premium, and more fun to drive, without losing its core identity.
