Is the iTurbo Worth It? Driving the 2026 Tata Punch with 120 PS & 6-Speed Gearbox"

The 2026 Tata Punch Turbo Introduction

Beyond the engine, the 2026 model boasts a premium "Ultra View" cockpit featuring a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen, a 360-degree camera, and ventilated seats. Safety remains a top priority with a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and six airbags as standard. With its increased 193mm ground clearance and bolder LED styling, the Punch Turbo isn't just a commuter anymore—it’s a powerful, tech-loaded micro-SUV ready for any adventure. 

Here is a comprehensive guide to the 2026 Tata Punch Turbo, including its price, specs, and ji why it's a game-changer.

​2026 Tata Punch Turbo: Index

1. ​Overview: The Turbo Transformation
2. ​Engine & Performance: What's New?
3. ​Key Specifications Table
4. ​Interior & Tech Upgrades
5. ​Safety First: 5-Star Bharat NCAP Rating
6. ​Price & Variants

​Verdict: Should You Buy It?

​1. Overview: The Turbo Transformation

​The Tata Punch has always been loved for its SUV-like stance and rugged build, but its 1.2L naturally aspirated engine sometimes felt underpowered on the open road. The 2026 facelift addresses this by introducing the 1.2L iTurbo petrol engine, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. This version isn't just about speed; it's about a more relaxed and confident driving experience.

​2. Engine & Performance: What's New?

​The biggest headline is the 120 PS and 170 Nm of torque. Compared to the standard 88 PS, this is a massive jump.

​Highway Ability: You no longer need to plan your overtakes seconds in advance.

​Drive Modes: It typically comes with City and Sport modes to balance fuel efficiency with performance.

​Transmission: It features a slicker 6-speed manual transmission, which helps in keeping the engine in its power band at high speeds.

​3. Key Specifications Table

4. Interior & Tech Upgrades

​Tata hasn't just updated the engine; the cabin feels significantly more premium.

​Infotainment: A new 10.25-inch HD touchscreen replaces the older unit, featuring wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

​Instrument Cluster: A 7-inch digital display provides all vital stats clearly.

​Comfort: Reworked seat cushioning and a revised center console make it a more practical daily driver.

​Luxury Touches: Voice-assisted sunroof, wireless charger, and a 360-degree camera system.

​5. Safety First: 5-Star Bharat NCAP Rating

​Safety remains a non-negotiable for Tata. The 2026 Punch has secured a 5-star rating from Bharat NCAP.

​6 Airbags as Standard: Now across all variants.

​Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Keeps the car stable during sudden maneuvers.

​High-Strength Steel: A rigid body shell designed to absorb impact.

​6. Price & Variants

​The Turbo engine is available in higher-spec trims, making it a premium offering within the Punch lineup.

​Adventure Turbo: Approx. ₹8.30 Lakh (Ex-showroom)

​Accomplished Plus S Turbo: Approx. ₹9.80 Lakh (Ex-showroom)

​Note: Prices vary by city and taxes. The Turbo variants are generally priced about ₹40,000 to ₹50,000 higher than their naturally aspirated counterparts.

Here are the Pros and Cons of the 2026 Tata Punch Turbo to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your garage.

​The Pros (What makes it great)

• ​Segment-Leading Power: With 120 PS and 170 Nm, it is significantly more powerful than the standard Punch. It solves the "underpowered" feel, making highway overtakes effortless.
• ​Unmatched Safety: It maintains its 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and now includes 6 airbags as standard across all variants, making it one of the safest small cars in India.
• ​High Ground Clearance: Its 193mm ground clearance (increased for 2026) is best-in-class, allowing it to handle broken roads and tall speed breakers like a proper SUV.
• ​Tech-Loaded Cabin: The new 10.25-inch infotainment system, 360-degree camera, and wireless charging bring it at par with more expensive SUVs.
• ​90-Degree Door Opening: This signature feature remains, making it the easiest car in its segment to get in and out of, especially for elderly passengers.

​The Cons (The "Corns" or drawbacks)

• No Turbo-Automatic Option: Currently, the Turbo engine is only paired with a 6-speed manual. If you want an automatic (AMT), you have to stick with the slower, non-turbo engine.
• ​3-Cylinder Vibrations: While improved, the 3-cylinder engine still has some inherent "thrum" and vibrations at idle compared to the smoother 4-cylinder engines found in rivals like the Hyundai Exter.
• ​Touch-Heavy Controls: The new touch-based climate control panel looks premium but can be distracting to use while driving as it provides no physical feedback.
• ​Rear Seat Width: While there is plenty of legroom, seating three adults in the back remains a tight squeeze; it is essentially a comfortable 4-seater.
• ​Price Premium: The Turbo variants sit at the top of the range, pushing the price close to ₹10 Lakh (ex-showroom), which puts it in direct competition with larger compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon or Nissan Magnite.