Tata Motors has launched the new Aeris sedan in India with a starting price of Rs 5.29 lakh (ex-showroom), which puts it in the lineup, Smart. While some convenience and infotainment features available on higher variants don’t apply for the base trim, Tata Motors has equipped it with a whole lot of safety features. That makes the Aeris Smart more suitable for the budget-conscious market and basic safety features.
Tata Aeris Smart comes in both petrol and CNG powertrain options. The CNG version is priced Rs 1 lakh more than the petrol model, and both versions come with manual transmission. Delivery of the new sedan will take place on October 11. The Aeris is a compact sedan for practical family car consumers looking to buy affordable, safe, and low running costs.
Tata Aeris Smart: Exterior Features
The entry-level Smart variant has a relatively simple exterior setup compared with the higher-spec versions. It has halogen headlights instead of LED units, and the car rides on 14-inch steel wheels without wheel covers. The door handles and outside rear-view mirrors are black, so the base version looks functional.
The Smart trim also has fender-mounted turn indicators rather than the door-mounted ones on higher variants. A noticeable omission is the absence of a roof antenna. This is because the base version doesn’t have a factory-fitted music system.
The entry-level sedan also lacks a rear defogger, which is added to the Pure version from now on. These omissions help keep the starting price lower but also show the differences between the Smart and the more expensive Aeris version.
What You Get Inside The Tata Aeris Smart
The cabin of the Aeris Smart focuses on essential equipment rather than luxuries. Fabric seat upholstery and front seats with under-thigh support are included in the new version. The steering wheel is a two-spoke with tilt, and the four windows are manually operated.
There is a storage cubby and a 12V power socket in the centre console, which provides some basic practicality for everyday use. However, rear passengers are not provided with AC vents. This could be noticeable for families who frequently travel with multiple occupants, particularly in hot weather.
The absence of an infotainment system is also a major difference between the Smart trim and higher variants. For this price point, buyers don’t get a factory-fitted music system and touchscreen but rather a number of other connectivity features.
Six Airbags And Safety Features Standard
The Tata Aeris Smart has a lot of safety features, and this is the heart of the design. Although it is the entry-level model, six airbags are standard for the sedan. This includes protection for both the front and rear parts of the cabin.
The Smart trim also includes ISOFIX child-seat mounting points, three-point seatbelts for all occupants, and ABS with EBD. Cornering stability control is also included. These features make the base variant a substantial safety package, even at the relatively low price.
For consumers who value safety over convenience, this equipment list could be one of the main reasons to consider the entry-level version. The approach also means that customers don’t have to jump to a higher trim to get essential safety equipment.
Features Missing From The Base Variant
The Tata Aeris Smart does have some limitations. One of the biggest is that there is no music system. There is also no 10.25-inch touchscreen, which is offered on higher variants.
The base version also lacks the 360-degree camera and LED lighting that are available in more expensive trims. These features can make driving and parking more comfortable for people who frequently drive in crowded cities.
The absence of a factory infotainment system might be the biggest consideration for potential buyers. An aftermarket system can be installed, but for some customers, the convenience and integration of a factory-fitted unit is more appealing.
Petrol And CNG Engine Options
The Smart variant has petrol and CNG powertrains. The 1.2-litre petrol engine produces 85hp and 113Nm of torque, while the CNG version generates 75hp and 97Nm.
At the base-trim level, both versions are paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. The AMT automatic transmission is reserved for higher variants, and buyers with the Smart trim will have to opt for the manual gearbox.
CNG versions are equipped with an underbody CNG tank that helps preserve usable boot space. This could be a big benefit for customers who consider the Aeris primarily as a family vehicle but want to save on fuel running costs.
Is Tata Aeris Smart Worth Considering?
At Rs 5.29 lakh (ex-showroom), the Tata Aeris Smart focuses heavily on essential equipment rather than comfort and technology. The six-airbag system, ISOFIX mounts, three-point seatbelts, ABS with EBD, and cornering stability control make safety one of the best features of the base model.
However, customers who want a touchscreen, music system, rear AC vents, LED lighting, or a 360-degree camera will need to look for higher variants. For the most part, the Smart trim is more suitable for those who are comfortable with a basic cabin and are more interested in safety and affordability.
With both petrol and CNG options available, customers can also be more flexible with their driving requirements. With deliveries scheduled to begin on October 11, the Tata Aeris Smart will soon be available for customers who are in the market for a very affordable sedan and are looking for a car with good quality standard safety equipment.
