Tata Nano 2012-2017 Twist XT

Nano 2012-2017 Twist XT Review

Tata Motors India has introduced the latest version in the Tata Nano model series christened as Tata Nano Twist XT and it is powered by the same 624cc engine that is also powering its existing variants. The company introduced this latest version with several new aspects in terms of safety and comforts. One of the most important comfort feature of this latest version is its power steering column that eases the efforts of driving by offering a precise response. This small hatch comes with a crumple zones that safeguards the occupants inside when collisions occur. It also features a twin glove box compartment for added convenience and storage, while the cabin lights inside comes with a dimming effect. In terms of exteriors, this latest version gets a tip-tap ORVMs along with full wheel caps and a sporty mesh rear bumper with stylish chrome accents. The company says that the electric power steering unit of this small hatch is designed by the ZF Friedrichshafen, a German company that also designed the 9-speed auto gearbox for the Tata's Land Rover. The company rolled out this new version under the umbrella of the Tata Motor's HORIZONEXT campaign, which will help the company to improve the products as per the requirements of the customers.

Exteriors :

The exteriors of this Tata Nano Twist XT remained mostly identical to the existing variants but few tweaks have been made to make it look more attractive. On the front facade, this latest edition has the large headlight cluster integrated with halogen lamps along with turn indicators. The bonnet is very sleekly designed and it is decorated with the company logo along with a chrome strip. Also the front bumper comes incorporated with the dynamic fog lights along with chrome inserts that accentuates the front facade. The front windscreen is very large and it is accompanied with wiper. Coming to the sides, the company has fitted the tip-tap styled outside rear view mirrors to the doors and its caps have been painted in body color. Furthermore the steel wheels are now fitted with full wheel covers that will add to the decent looks of side. On the other hand, the rear end of this small hatch received a sporty mesh rear bumper that provides better air intake to the engine cooling. Apart from these rest of the body design and structure of this vehicle remained to be the same as other existing variants. Currently the manufacturer is offering this latest version in a total of six striking exterior body paints such as Damson Purple, Dazzle Blue, Papaya Orange, Pearl White , Meteor Silver, and Royal Gold.

Interiors :

Coming to the interiors, this Tata Nano Twist XT comes with a newly designed instrument cluster with trendy fonts and LED gauge that refreshes the inside cabin. The speedometer comes with a new fonts, while the temperature and the fuel gauge comes with LED setup that makes it look stylish. Apart from this, the company also repositioned the digital trip meter along with clock that makes the instrument cluster look refreshing. While the rest of the interiors remained mostly identical to the earlier version. The interior cabin is blessed with a dual tone color scheme with seats along with door trims are covered with premium beige/sporty black fabric upholstery. This latest version is blessed with a twin glove box compartment that provides added storage and enhances the convenience. The dashboard in the front cabin is integrated with an all new AmphiStream music system along with AC unit and other control switches. The company is offering number of utility based features inside this small hatch including the 3-spoke steering wheel, digital fuel gauge, electric trip meter , integrated speakers, cup holders, bottle holders, and number of other necessary features.

Engine and Performance:

The company has rolled out this new trim by assembling it with the 2-cylinder, 624cc petrol power plant under the hood . This engine is incorporated with the multi-point fuel injection system that enables this motor to produce good performance and delivers optimum fuel efficiency. The maximum power produced by this engine is 37.5bhp at 5500 +/- 250rpm, while yielding a peak torque output of about 51Nm at 4000 +/-500rpm, which is good. The company has skillfully coupled this 2-cylinder engine with a 4-forward + 1-reverse manual transmission gearbox that powers the rear wheels and returns a staggering mileage of about 25.4 Kmpl. The company claims that the vehicle can achieve a top speed of about 105 Kmph, which is good for a vehicle of such caliber.

Braking and Handling:

Tata Motors hasn't compromised on the braking and handling aspects of this small hatch. It has blessed this latest version with an advanced dual circuit, vertical split braking system operated by tandem master cylinder with vacuum booster. This mechanism enhances the 180mm diameter drum brakes fitted to all the four wheels and delivers a reliable performance irrespective of road condition. Most impressive aspect about this Tata Nano Twist is its brush-less electric power assisted steering system that enhances the drive quality and offers an easy maneuvering in sharp corners and parking spots. The company integrated this steering with an Active Return system that returns the steering wheel back to its position when released after taking a turn. It also supports a small turning radius of 4-meters that makes it an ideal for crowded cities.

Comfort Features:

This trim comes with improved comfort and convenience features that certainly offers a joyful traveling experience. The list of comfort features include a remote key less entry, a proficient air conditioner unit with heater, front power windows, a 12V power socket, sun visor on driver and passenger side , front and rear seat headrest, magazine and coin holders on all doors, distance to empty display, average fuel economy display, digital clock and several other features. Apart from these, the company also installed a dash integrated AmphiStream music system with CD/MP3 player that also supports USB, AUX-In and Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety Features:

Tata Motors is offering this new version with improved safety aspects that protects the passengers to a greater extent. The company has designed this small hatch with a monocoque chasis with precisely engineered crumple zone that safeguards the passenger cabin in case of collisions. Other safety functions of this four wheeler includes a central locking system, center high mounted stop lamps , booster assisted brakes, additional body reinforcements, intrusion beam are just to name a few. 

Pros : Great fuel efficiency, advanced electric power steering system. 

Cons : Price needs to be competitive, appearance and style need to improve.