CarPal People’s Choice of 2017 Winner — The Tata Tiago
We thought it would be interesting to give our readers a chance to vote for their favorite cars of 2017 by pitting them against each other in a knockout style tournament. Much to our delight, the response was overwhelmingly positive and the competition threw up some exciting surprises. Perhaps none more so than the Tata Tiago beating the likes of the Maruti Swift, Volkswagen Polo and the Ford EcoSport on it’s way to winning the title of CarPal People’s Choice of 2017!
Here’s what the final tournament bracket looked like:
Though the Tiago did have a little luck on it’s way to the finals, having broken a tie with the Polo in the semis by virtue of having had more votes in previous rounds, it’s ultimate triumph over the EcoSport was no fluke.
The Tiago is at the forefront of Tata’s quest to revamp it’s image in the country and cater to a new generation of car buyers. Tata have done a great job of understanding the changing needs of the market and have delivered a modern hatch with a refreshing design, impactful features and commendable engine tech at a convenient price point. Consequently, the Tiago was one of the most popular cars of 2017. Here is a list of things we like about the car and what we think can be improved:
Strengths:
1. Perfect dimensions for city running makes it a practical buy.
2. The Harman music system is the best in it’s class — may be even more.
3. Tata’s ‘Impact Design’ philosophy blends in a pleasing outlook.
4. Small value additions (hook next to the passenger seat) go a long way.
5. Reasonable maintenance expenses.
Weaknesses:
1. May not be as spacious as most Tata cars
2. The petrol engine might lack punch.
3. Vibrations due to 3-cylinder engine config.
4. Tata’s after sales experience, though better than earlier, isn’t as efficient as the rest.
5. Resale value to become better only post 4–5 years.
