Rumour: Base variant of Tata Zest to get 75 PS diesel

Tata Motors knows that the upcoming Zest compact sedan and Bolt hatchback are extremely important products to them. If these two models do not make an impact on the market, the company could be staring at a bleak future. Therefore, it is not taking any chances and working hard to ensure that the two models are successful.

The Zest, which will be the first of the two offerings to hit the market, is scheduled to be launched in August. Tata Motors will offer the car in many variants in both petrol and diesel versions. The company is also offering many segment-first features such as LED day-time running lights (DRLs), a turbo petrol engine and diesel with AMT to broaden the appeal of the car.

Now rumours have surfaced that Tata Motors will plonk a less powerful diesel engine in the car as well. This engine is the same 1.3-litre Quadrajet unit that we are familiar with. However, unlike the higher variants of the diesel Zest, it uses a fixed-geometry turbocharger in place of a variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT). The engine has a lower power output - 75 PS against 90 PS of the VGT version.

This engine will be available on the base model of the Zest and will appeal to those looking at just the space, ride and quality that the car offers rather than performance. The company will also be able to price the base variant substantially lower than the other variants, which will make it a very attractive value for money proposition. The base variant of the Zest is expected to lose features such as DRLs, alloy wheels, climate control, airbags and the Harman-developed infotainment system, which are seen on higher variants.

Tata Motors will also use this engine in the Bolt.

Source: Zigwheels