Is Tata Punch EV the Best Affordable Electric SUV of 2025?

Tata Punch EV 2025

Tata Motors' latest entry, the Punch.ev, is part of Tata's range of compact electric SUVs based on its new acti.ev architecture. Launched in early 2024, the Punch.ev is intended to combine the practicality and perky styling of the ICE Punch with electric powertrain efficiency, modern features, and great value. Tata Punch.ev will compete as a city SUV EV with choice of "Standard" (Mid-Range) or "Long-Range" packs for buyers.

In this article, we will discuss all the key details such as specifications, battery, charging, features, real-world performance, Pros & Cons, value for money, and owner experience.

Variants, Battery & Performance

Tata offers Punch.ev in two battery versions:

So, Long Range gives more power and torque, plus better range, at a higher cost.

Charging & Battery Details

The battery pack and motor have an IP67 rating, thereby offering effective protection against dust and water ingress. The warranty for both the battery and motor is 8 years or 1,60,000 km, whichever comes first.

Charging options are as follows:

• Standard (25 kWh): 3.3 kW AC / 15A plug or wall-box: ~9.4 hours for 10 - 100%; 7.2 kW AC wall box: ~3.6 hours
• Long Range (35 kWh): 3.3 kW / 15A: ~13.5 hours; 7.2 kW AC wall box: ~5 hours

Fast DC charging with a 50 kW DC charger will give you 10-80% state-of-charge in about 56 minutes. Regenerative braking has multiple levels, and paddles to control the brake regen effects are provided to the driver. Drive modes include Eco, City, and Sport.

Features & Design

• Dimensions: Length ~3,857 mm, Width ~1,742 mm, Height ~1,633 mm, Wheelbase ~2,445 mm, Ground Clearance ~190 mm.
• Boot Space: Approximately ~366 liters.
• Seating Capacity: Seats five, with good interior space for its segment. Rear legroom is a little less than larger SUVs - it is acceptable.
• Safety: 5-Star Bharat NCAP Rating. 6 Airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Hill Hold Control, Electric Parking Brake, Auto-Hold in LR, and other safety aids.
• Infotainment and Comfort: 10.25-inches Touchscreen Infotainment System, Digital Instrument Cluster, Voice Assistants, Air Purifier and AQI Display, Front Ventilated Seats, Wireless Charging, Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, LED Lighting, Stylish Exterior Front LED Light Bar, Projector LED Headlights.
• Water Wading Ability: About 350 mm.

Price & Variants

Here are the ex-showroom prices:

Prices vary depending on variant, region, incentives, etc.

Real‐World Use & Performance

The real range of the vehicle while driving in the city situation is lower than claims made by MIDC as this is influenced by air-conditioning use, traffic conditions, and temperature, though some users observed ranges closer to 230-250 km for the standard variant, with the latter being supported by tests if operated under more mixed-use driving situations.

Handling & Comfort: Most reviews state that the ride is smooth and the ground clearance contributes to travel comfort over rough road conditions; however, body roll is apparent in sharp turns.

Charging Behavior: Some owners report issues with the fast charger on the vehicle, or that the fast-charging speed on the vehicle was less than optimal using public charging stations.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Pricing is very competitive for the offering.
• Safety features are powerful: Bharat NCAP 5-star rating.
• Excellent real-world range in both standard and LR variants.
• Fast charging and multiple charging modes available.
• Battery and motor have an IP67 rating as well as a great warranty.
• Number of cabin features incl. infotainment, voice assist, ventilated seats, etc.

Cons

• Real-world range is sometimes less than published depending on conditions.
• Rear seat space would be cramped for taller passengers.
• Fast charger and local charger networks are still developing.
• Minor reported quality issues or inconsistencies from some users.

Who is it Best For?

• People living and commuting in urban & suburban areas who want a compact SUV EV for their day-to-day living.
• People who are first-time new EV owners who want safety and connectivity that isn’t too expensive.
• People who have access to charging at home or at their office.
• Not recommend for people who do long-distance highway driving; the long-range variant might be better - but only if you have reliable fast charging stations.

Final Verdict

The Tata Punch.ev is one of India’s best compact EVs in 2023; you get a solid combination of safety, features, range and price. If you mostly drive city and suburb, the standard variant is a great value. If you need more range and torque, you might want to consider the Long-Range variant.

Before you purchase, ensure to check the real charging infrastructure in the area, especially fast chargers, and figure out how much your AC / highway driving as will reduce your range. Make sure to watch launch offers or incentives; they can significantly reduce the cost!