Altroz Racer Review
Tata Altroz Racer is one of the best hatchbacks available on the market, boasting a powerful engine, extensive technology features and 5-star safety measures.
However, its biggest shortcoming lies in its lack of an automatic gearbox – something which rivals like i20 N Line and Maruti Fronx Turbo provide. Altroz Racer Review
Altroz Racer Review Engine
Tata engineers understood the standard Altroz was a solid hatchback, but needed more power. So in their Racer variant they added an even more potent engine; utilising the same 1.2-litre turbo petrol unit found in the Nexon but now producing an output of 118bhp and 170Nm with dual tip exhaust giving off a sportier note that’s pleasing on the ears. Altroz Racer Review
Tata also optimized its suspension to handle its extra power, creating a mature setup capable of handling regular roads as well as larger potholes with ease. Furthermore, steering has a good feel to allow nimble manoeuvring and quick build-up of pace. Furthermore, The Racer utilizes a hydraulic clutch control system which makes gearshifts feel quicker and more precise while remaining heavy at lower speeds traffic levels.
At its fastest, the Altroz Racer can hit 100 km/h in just over 11 seconds, which may not be as fast as some top-spec hot hatchbacks but still delivers solid performance and is enjoyable to drive. Thanks to its strong mid-range engine, highway overtakes don’t present too many problems either.
The Racer comes equipped with numerous features, such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay systems, an 8-speaker music system with ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera and black interior featuring orange accents around vents and gear lever. These subtle additions give it an aggressive yet sporty vibe without overstaying its welcome.
Altroz Racer Review Transmission
Tata engineers recognized that the Altroz Racer needed something extra in its standard form – more urgency – which is why India’s first F1 driver, Narayan Karthikeyan was recruited as a consultant to help fine-tune it as an effective performance hatchback.
To do so, they upgraded the Altroz Racer with a 120PS + 170Nm i-Turbo+ engine from Nexon’s three-cylinder petrol engine – adding 10bhp and more torque at lower revs over its previous output and offering better handling at speed – making driving at speed much more enjoyable with steady cruise control and easier overtakes with additional grunt available. Altroz Racer Review
The Racer also features a hydraulic clutch, which enhances clutch pedal feel and reduces effort required to change gears compared to its standard model’s spongy clutch pedal feel. Furthermore, brakes have been upgraded for greater pedal feedback and responsiveness. Altroz Racer Review
This added performance sets the Racer apart from its rivals – such as Hyundai i20 N Line and premium Renault Kiger/Nissan Magnite micro SUVs. Furthermore, it enhances overall experience for buyers seeking something a bit different in a hatchback car. Altroz Racer Review
Altroz Racer Review Safety
Tata has taken an innovative approach in equipping the Racer as a fun vehicle to drive.
The engine of this Racer has been significantly upgraded for improved performance and an engaging driving experience, featuring a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine from Altroz iTurbo that generates 120hp and 170Nm and pairs with a six-speed manual gearbox paired with smoother shift quality, no more abrupt shift quality shifts and no sudden jerkiness when shifting gears. Furthermore, its hydraulic clutch replaces conventional mechanical ones.
Although tuned for higher power output, the Racer still manages to achieve excellent fuel economy figures of 19-26 kmpl on highway and city runs. Although its front disc and rear drum brakes remain similar to those found on standard Altroz vehicles, their response seems more responsive with reduced effort required in stopping.
Safety-wise, the Racer comes standard with six airbags, an electronic stability controller (ESC), ISOFIX anchorages and cruise control – in addition to features like Auto Headlamps, Rain Sensing Wipers, Blind View Monitor and 360-degree cameras that help build driver confidence on the road. Altroz Racer Review
The Racer offers an improved cabin that is similar to that of its Altroz counterpart; however, some cosmetic changes such as dual-tone paint and racing stripes distinguish this model. Available colors for the Racer include Atomic Orange, Avenue White and Pure Grey hues; racing elements can be seen throughout its cabin including vents and gear console. Seats provide excellent support even on long journeys while its light steering wheel returns quick responses, making maneuvering it through city traffic effortless. Altroz Racer Review
Altroz Racer Review Design
If you’re in search of a hot hatchback that will get your blood pumping, look no further than the Tata Altroz Racer. As its name implies, this car features an upgraded engine and cosmetic upgrades over its regular counterpart – with Atomic Orange being our pick among three colour themes including Avenue White and Pure Grey.
Tata Altroz Racer is equipped with a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine producing 118 horsepower and 170 nm of torque – the same unit found in Nexon subcompact SUV – to deliver instantaneous performance boost. Mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, its output goes directly to the front wheels – though unfortunately there’s no automatic option available as that would have only added to its appeal further.
Tata engineers realized that simply adding more punch wouldn’t suffice, so they turned their focus towards refining its driving dynamics. Working closely with India’s first F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan resulted in an improved suspension setup capable of handling bumps and potholes efficiently while offering a flat torque curve that makes overtaking traffic without difficulty and triple-digit speeds easily achievable.
Tata has gone all-out Darth Vader with their Racer interiors, featuring black upholstery with orange accents reminiscent of Darth Vader himself. This adds a sporty edge without becoming garish or excessive; also providing plenty of leg room in its spacious cabin.
Altroz Racer Review Features
The Altroz Racer takes its basic platform and adds some custom touches, including new paint scheme, Racer badges, front ventilated seats and dual tip exhaust that gives it its unique appearance. Furthermore, there’s a new touchscreen infotainment system with an intuitive user interface.
Tata Altroz Racer can only be had with a six-speed manual transmission and features the same 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine seen in Tiago JTP and Nexon models, producing 118bhp and 170Nm, enough power for it to reach 100kmh in only 7.1 seconds! Tata tuned its engine further so as to give a sportier feel – plus there are other small changes too.
As with the iTurbo, the clutch has been reduced and gear ratios altered to deliver quicker acceleration. Unfortunately, however, the Racer does not include a drive mode option – which may be disappointing to some drivers.
Because of these modifications, the Racer is more enjoyable to drive than its standard Altroz sibling; however, even with its enhanced performance capabilities it cannot compare with modern day Pinto Abarth models.
Though not as luxurious, the Racer manages to provide an enjoyable driving and handling experience on regular roads. It features stiffer suspension, which lends it a tauter and more fun-to-drive character while still remaining comfortable over rougher surfaces. Safety-wise, its no different from regular Altroz and offers 6-airbags, ABS, EBD ISOFIX 3-point seatbelts for all passengers cruise control automatic headlamps wipers automatic headlamps wipers as well as 5-star crash test ratings as standard features – plus it features dual zone climate control system plus air purifier as standard features!
