Tata Motors has just unveiled the Zest, which is a sub 4-metre version of the Manza but gets heavy changes. Like the Bolt, the Zest too gets a plethora of changes but the biggest is the F-Tronic Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) which is the first in the segment in the compact sedan space, as it will be offered with the diesel too. The Tata Bolt and Zest are designed with inputs from Tata Motors’ design studios in Pune, Turin (Italy) and Coventry (UK). The Tata Zest gets Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), projector headlights, LED tail lamps, 15-inch alloy wheels and a new Buzz Blue colour. The DRLs differentiate the Zest from the Bolt.
The Tata Zest is powered by a 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine (Quadrajet in Tata speak) which produces 90 PS of power and 200 Nm of torque. The petrol engine is the 1.2-litre Revotron unit which belts out 85 PS and 140 Nm. Both petrol and diesel engines will be offered with F-Tronic automatic gearbox and a 5-speed manual. All the features from the Bolt are offered on the Zest, like 5-inch infotainment system, smartphone integration, touch-screen, phone enabled navigation, etc. The Zest gets a completely enhanced X1 platform.
The Tata Zest measures 3995 mm in length, 1695 mm in width and 1570 mm in height. It weighs 1106 kgs and has a 44-litre fuel tank. The steering unit is updated and is an EPS wheel with self centring and speed sensitivity. The vehicle runs on 16-inch wheels which is again a segment first as all other compact sedans run on 15-inch rubber.
A quick look at the Tata Zest in person and here is what we think. The Zest looks really good, the design is fresh and the boot doesn’t look awkward but the tail lights are reminiscent of a competitor from the compact sedan space. The quality looks good and Tata Motors is betting big on quality and features at a value for money price to win customers. The company is pursuing best in class customer experience and that is something which will also boil down to its sales and service.
