By Prashirwin Naidu

After six years off the South African radar, Tata is back. I joined their spirited two-day launch to sample the latest line-up: the Tiago, Punch, Curvv and Harrier, unveiled at the scenic Cradle Boutique Hotel, which set the tone for a crisp, excitement-filled outing. The return of this Indian headquartered manufacturer is more than symbolic. Tata is here to reclaim space in a market now crowded with Chinese newcomers while also nibbling the market share away from legacy players like Toyota, Suzuki and Volkswagen. The new lineup covers the spectrum, from budget-friendly city cars to family SUVs packed with serious kit, signalling Tata’s intent to compete head-on.

Tiago, a budget-friendly hatch with great safety feature

My first drive in the cheerful Tiago revealed a hatchback built for value-seekers who don’t want to compromise on safety. Under the bonnet sits a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine — modest in output, but perfectly suited to daily driving. Paired with a light clutch and five-speed manual gearbox, it makes city commutes and weekend errands an easy task. Fuel efficiency is another win, with a claimed 5 L/100 km.

Step inside, and the Tiago feels anything but entry-level. A dual-tone cabin with plush melange seats sets a welcoming tone, while tech-savvy buyers will appreciate the 7-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Add in a digital instrument cluster and a cooled glovebox, and it’s clear Tata has paid attention to detail.

Safety is where the Tiago truly surprises. With a four-star Global NCAP rating, dual
airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist, corner stability control, and a reverse camera, it raises the bar in this price bracket. Available in three trims — XM, XT, and XZ — the Tiago starts at R184 900, including a two-year/30 000 km service plan and five-year/125 000 km warranty. For first-time buyers or small families, it’s a safe, stylish, and affordable all-rounder that punches above its weight.

Punch, a rugged styled compact SUV with a bold personality

The Punch is Tata’s compact SUV with a personality as bold as its name. Standing tall with 190 mm of ground clearance, it’s well-suited to tackling South Africa’s pothole-strewn streets. Pricing kicks off at R244 900. Like the Tiago, it’s powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. However, the AMT (automated manual) gearbox felt hesitant and jerky at times, making the manual the more enjoyable option.

Where the Punch really shines is in design and practicality. Chunky lines, LED and Daytime Running Lights, roof rails, and clever storage touches give it plenty of character. Step inside, and the roomy cabin surprises with dual-tone trim, a flat floor, wireless charging, auto climate control, and, on higher trims, even a sunroof.

Safety is a strong point too — its five-star Global NCAP rating is backed by dual airbags, ABS (braking system) with EBD, ESP (electronic stability program), and corner stability control. With five derivatives available, from the entry-level Adventure to the range-topping Creative+ AMT at R339 900, the Punch comes standard with a three-year/45 000 km service plan and a five-year/125 000 km warranty. While its drive may lack sparkle, the Punch makes up for it with rugged flair, space, and everyday practicality — a solid choice for urban xplorers.

Curvv, a coupé-inspired compact SUV that brings glamour to everyday drive

Day two introduced Tata’s sleeker contender, the Curvv, a coupé-inspired compact SUV designed to bring a touch of glamour to the daily grind. With its raked roofline and sharp bodywork, it lines up squarely against rivals like the Suzuki Fronx and Toyota Starlet Cross.

Step inside and the premium intent is clear. A voice-activated assistant, panoramic sunroof, surround-view camera, ventilated seats, and quality finishes create an upmarket feel. The driving position is spot-on, though rear passenger space is a little snug. A deep boot with a power tailgate makes it practical too.

Under the bonnet, a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch auto. The Curvv feels composed on the road, but the auto occasionally hunts between gears. With 208 mm of ground clearance, it also carries a hint of adventure. Pricing stretches from the entry-level Pure+ to the top-spec Accomplished S at over R500 000, placing the Curvv in the same ring as the Haval Jolion, Kia Seltos, and Renault Duster. Stylish, well-specced, and versatile, the Curvv is Tata’s statement piece in the compact SUV segment.

Harrier, Tata’s Flagship with Land Rover DNA

Rounding off the range is Tata’s flagship SUV, the Harrier, underpinned by the Land Rover Discovery Sport platform (Tata owns Jaguar Land Rover). Set against rivals like the Chery Tiggo 8 and Haval H6, it comes in Pure+, Adventure+ A, and Fearless+ trims starting from R549 900 with a five-year/75 000km service plan and a five-year/125 000km warranty.

Space is a strong card, with 445 litres of boot capacity expanding to 815 litres. The cabin feels solid and premium, offering ventilated leather seats, park distance control, and a user-friendly camera system.

Powered by a diesel engine paired with a six-speed automatic, the Harrier delivers
smooth torque and refinement, making it the most polished drive of Tata’s new line-up. Ride comfort is excellent, keeping body roll neatly in check. While it’s front-wheel-drive only, it still carries enough versatility for light off-road detours.

After sampling the full range, it’s clear that Tata’s comeback is more than a headline. From the value-packed Tiago to the chunky Punch, stylish Curvv, and capable Harrier, the line-up has personality, depth, and a welcome focus on safety.

Yes, the brand still needs to rebuild trust in a market crowded with bold newcomers, but this refreshed portfolio shows intent. With competitive pricing, solid warranties, and designs that embrace character, Tata’s second act in South Africa feels well underway and it’s off to a promising start.