It is not an occult secret that the Tata Zest and the Bolt which made debuts at Auto Expo 2014 are nearing their introduction. The company has showcased the cars a few times already, and online promotions have intensified before the cars can set off on the rescue mission.
Indian Autos Blog learns that the launch of the Zest in scheduled in August and the Bolt hatchback would enter the market about a month later. Both cars are based on the 'X1' platform but are packaged in a more compelling way. They benefit from extensive improvements to the exterior, interior and hardware.
The duo share the powertrain lineup which comprises the new Revtron 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol and the time proven 1.3-litre Quadrajet diesel engine (Fiat MultiJet). The four-cylinder petrol motor develops 85 hp of power and 140 Nm of torque which are rather modest by forced induction standards. However, Tata Motors says the engine will compensate with good driveability and fuel economy.
The diesel motor is expected to be available in different states of tune for the sedan and hatchback. While the Zest would be propelled by the VGT (Variable Geometry Turbo) version with 90 PS and 200 Nm of torque, the Bolt has to make do with the fixed type which develops 75 PS and 190 Nm of torque.
Both engines will be mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The Zest diesel will get an AMT option which is expected to make its way to the Bolt, to make it the cheapest diesel automatic car in India.
