Tata Zest Quadrajet 1.3 XM

The much awaited compact sedan Tata Zest is finally launched in the car market. It was first showcased at the Auto Expo 2014, which was held in Delhi earlier this year. This model will compete against the likes of Maruti Swift Dzire, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent and other vehicles in this segment. The company has introduced it in several trim levels, out of which, Tata Zest Quadrajet 1.3 XM is the mid range variant. It is powered by a 1.3-litre diesel engine, which can generate 88.8bhp along with 200Nm of maximum torque output. This variant comes with an efficient braking and suspension mechanism, which keeps it well balanced at all times. Its internal cabin is quite roomy, owing the large wheelbase of 2470mm. It has a spacious boot compartment of 390 litres and its fuel tank can store about 44 litres diesel in it, which is perfect for planning longer journeys. At the same time, it comes with 3995mm, 1706mm and 1570mm of length, width and height respectively. It has a minimum ground clearance of 165mm that is quite decent. At present, the company is selling this compact sedan in quite a few exterior paint options for the buyers to choose from. The list includes Platinum Silver, Sky Grey, Buzz Blue, Dune Beige, Pristine White and Venetian Red finish option.

Exteriors:

The car makers have given this latest entrant an aerodynamic body structure, which is fitted with a lot of features. Its side profile is designed with neatly carved wheel arches, which are fitted with an elegant set of 15 inch alloy wheels , which enhances the look of its side profile. These rims are further covered with 185/60 R15 sized high performance tubeless radial tyres. Its door handles and external rear view mirrors are painted in body color. These ORVMs are electrically adjustable and integrated with LED side blinker. The rear end is equipped with a body colored bumper, which has a pair of fog lamps as well. The large windscreen is integrated with a high mounted stop lamp. Apart from these, it also has a wraparound LED tail light cluster, an expressive boot lid with model lettering and a roof mounted antenna for better reception of FM radio. Its frontage is designed with a bold radiator grille, which is embossed with a prominent company logo in the center. This grille is flanked by striking well lit headlight cluster that is powered by projector headlamps and side turn indicator. The body colored bumper has a wide air dam that helps in cooling the engine quickly. It flanked by a fair of fog lamps and it also has day time running lights. The large windscreen is integrated with a set of intermittent wipers and its bonnet has a couple of character lines, which gives it a decent appearance.

Interiors:

The internal cabin of this Tata Zest Quadrajet 1.3 XM trim is quite spacious and incorporated with well cushioned seats, which are integrated with head restraints. These seats are covered with fabric upholstery and provide ample leg space for all occupants. It has a premium layered dual tone dashboard that comes with Java Black and Latte finish. It is equipped with quite a few features like AC vents, a large glove box, an illuminated instrument cluster and a three spoke steering wheel with company's emblem in the center. The integrated multi-information display houses a digital tripmeter, key-in and light-off reminder buzzer, a tachometer, low fuel warning light, door ajar and driver seat belt reminder notifications. This variant is bestowed with a lot of utility based aspects like cup and bottle holders, front seat back pockets, a spacious boot compartment, map pockets in all doors and remote fuel lid opener.

Engine and Performance:

This variant is equipped with a 1.3-litre diesel engine, which comes with a displacement capacity of 1248cc . This power plant has the capacity to generate about 88.8bhp at 4000rpm in combination with 200Nm of peak torque output between 1750 to 3000rpm. It is skilfully paired with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which sends the engine power to front wheels. It allows the sedan to achieve a maximum speed in the range of 165 to 170 Kmph. At the same time, it can cross the speed barrier of 100 Kmph in close to 18 seconds. This diesel mill is incorporated with a common rail based direct injection fuel supply system, which allows the sedan to deliver about 20-23 Kmpl under standard driving conditions.

Braking and Handling:

The front axle is assembled with dual path independent McPherson strut along with anti roll bar. While the rear axle is equipped with a semi independent twist beam type of mechanism. It also has a corner stability control function. On the other hand, its front wheels are fitted with a set of disc brakes , while the rear ones have conventional drum brakes. This braking mechanism is further augmented by anti lock braking system along with electronic brake force distribution. The electric power assisted steering wheel supports a minimum turning radius of 5.1 meters, which is rather decent for this segment. This tilt adjustable steering wheel is speed sensitive and it comes with active return function.

Comfort Features:

This Tata Zest Quadrajet 1.3 XM trim is incorporated with a number of refined features. It has a ConnectNext infotainment system by Herman, which comes with speed sensing volume control function. It supports radio with AM/FM tuner, USB port, Aux-in interface, iPod connectivity, Bluetooth along with 4-speakers and 4-tweeters . The multi-functional steering wheel is mounted with audio and call control buttons for ease of the driver. Apart from these it is bestowed with tilt adjustable steering wheel, air conditioner with a heater, sun visor with passenger side vanity mirror, front power windows and electrically adjustable outside rear view mirrors.

Safety Features:

The list of features include front and rear fog lamps, sped sensitive auto door lock, seat belts for all occupants along with driver seat belt reminder notification on instrument panel, remote central locking system and a centrally located high mounted stop lamp . It has an advanced engine immobilizer, which prevents the vehicle from any unauthorized entry.

Pros:

1. Nicely done-up exteriors is a big plus point.

2. Engine performance is quite good.

Cons:

1. Lesser ground clearance is a disadvantage.

2. Engine noise and vibration can reduce.