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Tata Motors has taken the wraps off the refreshed Punch EV, and at first glance, you might be tempted to call it a subtle update. But spend a little more time with it, and you realise this facelift is less about dramatic reinvention and more about sharpening an already successful formula.
The Punch EV has been one of the most important electric vehicles in Tata’s portfolio. In a market where affordability, range anxiety, and practicality constantly wrestle with each other, the Punch EV found a sweet spot. Now, with this facelift, Tata isn’t just polishing the design; it is responding to a maturing EV buyer who expects more range, more tech, and more sophistication, without a steep jump in price.
With new styling tweaks, expanded battery options, and added features, the 2026 Punch EV facelift is here to reinforce its position in the compact electric SUV segment.
Price and Rivals
The Punch EV facelift is priced from INR 9.69 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to INR 12.59 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-spec variant.
Tata is also offering a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) option. Under this program, the base Smart 30 variant can be purchased at INR 6.49 lakh (ex-showroom) plus 2.6 per kilometre for battery usage.
This flexible pricing model could significantly lower the entry barrier for EV ownership.
In terms of competition, the Punch EV goes up against the Citroen eC3. It can also be cross-shopped with models such as the MG Windsor EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, and even its larger sibling, the Tata Nexon EV.
Design
Visually, Tata has opted for refinement over radical change. The facelifted Punch EV looks more mature, and arguably, more premium.
Front Fascia: Subtle but Effective Changes
The most noticeable update is at the front. Tata has reworked the bumper, giving it a curvier and more minimal look. The new textured silver skid plate adds a layer of ruggedness while maintaining a cleaner aesthetic. The overall impression is more polished compared to the outgoing model.
One key change is the deletion of the connecting light bar between the sleek DRLs. While some enthusiasts may miss it, the revised design arguably looks less busy and more cohesive.
The vertically stacked LED headlamps remain low-set, just like before, but now sit within larger surrounds to complement the redesigned bumper. It is a small detail, but it helps the front end look more proportionate.
Side Profile: Familiar Yet Updated
From the side, the Punch EV retains its distinctive compact SUV silhouette. The muscular haunches, roof rails, and rear door handles positioned near the C-pillar continue to give it a quirky yet confident road presence.
The changes are minimal but noticeable:
A new ‘Tata.ev’ badge on the front doors.
Grey body cladding replacing the older black treatment.
Dual-tone variants now get blacked-out A, B, and C pillars, creating a floating roof effect.
The 16-inch alloy wheels retain their signature quirky design, which has become a recognisable part of the Punch identity.
Rear: The Big Highlight
At the rear, the connected LED taillamp cluster is the most significant visual update. This single addition modernises the back of the car instantly and aligns it with contemporary EV design trends.
The bumper has also been revised, now featuring a textured silver skid plate. The familiar ‘Punch.ev’ lettering remains on the tailgate, maintaining brand continuity.
Expert Take:
While the updates are not revolutionary, they are intelligently executed. The facelift makes the Punch EV look cleaner, more sophisticated, and slightly more upscale, without alienating existing buyers who liked its original character.
Colour Options:
The Punch EV facelift is offered in a vibrant range of seven colour options, including the newly introduced Fearless Yellow, Bengal Rouge, and Caramel. These fresh additions join the existing shades of Supernova Copper, Empowered Oxide, Pure Grey, and Pristine White, giving buyers a broad palette to choose from, whether they prefer bold and expressive tones or subtle and sophisticated finishes..
Interior
Step inside, and the Punch EV facelift feels instantly recognisable. Tata has not reworked the dashboard layout, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
Dashboard and Layout
The upright dashboard design remains, paired with a free-standing infotainment display. The layout is practical, ergonomic, and easy to get used to.
One subtle but welcome change is the rounded borders of the infotainment screen, which make the interface appear less sharp-edged and more modern.
The colour theme has shifted from the earlier black-and-white combination to a grey-and-white finish. This makes the cabin feel airier and more contemporary.
Steering and Controls
The two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo continues to stand out. It feels modern and distinctive in a segment where many competitors stick to traditional three-spoke designs.
The 10-inch digital driver’s display is retained and now offers the ability to display navigation, improving practicality.
The centre console features a piano-black finish and houses the rotary gear selector with a knurled border, a premium touch rarely seen in this price bracket.
Rear Seat Experience
The rear seat remains largely unchanged in terms of space and layout. The new grey-white upholstery enhances the sense of freshness. For a compact SUV, the Punch EV continues to offer usable space for urban families.
Features
The Punch EV facelift continues its feature-rich approach.
The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system now comes with a revised user interface. It supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, making daily usability seamless.
The 10-inch digital driver’s display remains crisp and legible, now enhanced with navigation display functionality.
One of the standout features remains the voice-enabled electric sunroof. It’s a feature that resonates strongly with Indian buyers, and Tata has wisely retained it.
Ventilated front seats are a significant addition, especially in hot climates. For a compact EV at this price point, this feature sets a benchmark.
Other notable features include:
Wireless charger
Auto headlamps
Rain-sensing wipers
Auto-dimming IRVM
Air purifier
USB Type-C fast charging ports
4-speaker sound system
Keyless entry
Expert Opinion:
In terms of equipment, the Punch EV feels over-delivered for its segment. Tata understands that EV buyers in this price range want technology and comfort as justification for switching from ICE vehicles. This facelift strengthens that value proposition.
Safety Features
Safety has been one of Tata’s core strengths, and the Punch EV facelift continues that philosophy.
Standard safety equipment includes:
6 airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Hill Hold Assist
ABS with EBD
ISOFIX mounts
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
Higher variants add:
360-degree camera
Electronic parking brake with auto-hold
Blind-view monitor
Rear wiper and defogger
While the facelifted model is yet to be crash-tested, the previous version secured a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. Expectations remain high.
From an expert standpoint, the only mild criticism is that a rear wiper and defogger could have been standard across all variants.
Boot Space
The Punch EV offers 366 litres of boot space (up to the parcel tray), which is impressive for a compact SUV.
The rear seats can be folded to increase storage capacity, although the absence of split-folding limits flexibility. Nevertheless, for daily errands and weekend trips, the space on offer is more than adequate.
Powertrains and Battery
The most significant upgrade in the Punch EV facelift is its revised battery lineup. Tata now offers two options, allowing buyers to choose based on their driving needs and budget.
The 30kWh battery delivers a claimed 365–375 km range (MIDC Part 1 + 2, under certification), producing 88 PS and 154 Nm. It is well-suited for city commutes and occasional highway drives, offering a balanced mix of efficiency and performance.
The new 40kWh battery is the standout addition, offering a claimed 468 km range and 129 PS of power. With stronger performance and significantly higher range, it transforms the Punch EV from a city-focused EV into a capable long-distance compact SUV.
Expert Analysis:
This is where Tata has made the smartest move. By offering two battery options with a significant jump in range and power, the brand widens the Punch EV’s appeal, from budget-conscious first-time EV buyers to those seeking a primary family car.
Specifications at a Glance
Battery Options: 30kWh and 40kWh
Claimed Range: 365–375 km (30kWh) | 468 km (40kWh)
Power Output: 88 PS (30kWh) | 129 PS (40kWh)
Torque: 154 Nm (30kWh)
Boot Space: 366 litres
Infotainment: 10.25-inch touchscreen
Driver Display: 10-inch fully digital cluster
Safety: 6 airbags, ESC, Hill Hold Assist, ABS with EBD, TPMS
Wheels: 16-inch alloy wheels
Conclusion
The Tata Punch EV facelift is not a radical redesign, and it doesn’t need to be. Instead, it refines what already worked and strengthens the areas that matter most, range, features, and perceived quality.
In a market where EV adoption is accelerating but still price-sensitive, Tata has struck a careful balance. The added range, improved features, and subtle design enhancements make the Punch EV feel future-ready without pushing it out of reach.
For buyers looking at a compact electric SUV that blends practicality, safety, and technology with credible range figures, the new Punch EV facelift makes a compelling case, perhaps stronger than ever before.
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