KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Facelifted Tata Punch spotted in near-production form, inspired by Punch EV design cues
- Updated front bumper, sleeker LED DRLs and vertically-stacked headlamps expected
- Same 1.2-litre petrol and CNG powertrains to continue; launch expected in H1 2026
Tata Motors smallest SUV has been nothing short of a sales phenomenon in India. Since its launch, the Tata Punch has consistently ranked among the brand's top performers, thanks to its SUV-like stance, strong safety credentials, and city-friendly footprint. However, while features have evolved over time, the design has remained largely untouched. That is finally set to change, as Tata Motors gears up to introduce a facelifted version of the Punch. Recent spy shots reveal near-production test mules of the upcoming Tata Punch facelift, offering clearer insights into the design and feature upgrades planned for the popular micro-SUV. The updated model is expected to align the Punch more closely with Tata's newer design language, as seen on the Punch EV and Curvv. Read on to find out more details, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
Updated Exterior Inspired by Tata Punch EV
The latest test mules of the Tata Punch facelift appear closer to showroom-ready form compared to earlier sightings. While camouflage still covers key areas, several changes are now evident. At the front, the Tata Punch facelift sports a redesigned bumper with a more layered look. The upper grille now features pronounced horizontal air intakes, giving the nose a wider stance. Sleeker LED DRLs are visible, paired with vertically stacked headlamps, an element clearly inspired by the Punch EV. Depending on the variant, the headlamp housing is expected to integrate fog lamps with a cornering function. The clamshell bonnet design remains, reinforcing the SUV-like character.
Spy images also hint at the possible addition of an ADAS radar module in the lower bumper area, suggesting a major safety upgrade. New alloy wheel designs are expected as well, though these remain fully camouflaged for now. The familiar thick body cladding continues, likely unpainted, maintaining the rugged appeal that Punch buyers prefer.
More Tech & Safety Inside The Cabin
Interior updates are expected to be more substantial. Earlier spy shots have already revealed a redesigned dashboard layout featuring a larger floating touchscreen, likely measuring around 10.2 inches. A new steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo is also expected to debut here. Feature upgrades could include a fully digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera system and Level 2 ADAS, positioning the Punch facelift as one of the most tech-rich offerings in its segment. The presence of multiple camera housings in recent test mules further strengthens the likelihood of advanced driver assistance features being introduced.
Familiar Engine To Continue
Mechanically, Tata Motors is expected to keep things unchanged. The Punch facelift will likely retain the existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, along with the CNG variant. Transmission options should continue to include the 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT gearboxes.
Based on the maturity of the test vehicles, the Tata Punch facelift is expected to make its market debut in the first half of 2026. Pricing is likely to see a modest bump, justified by the significant design refresh and added technology.
Verdict
The upcoming Tata Punch facelift looks set to be more than a cosmetic update. With refreshed styling inspired by Tata's newer EVs, a tech-heavy cabin and the potential addition of ADAS, the Punch is preparing for its next phase in a fiercely competitive market. By retaining its proven engines while modernising the design and features, Tata is strengthening the Punch's position as one of India's most sought-after entry-level SUVs heading into 2026.
