[New Image Gallery Added] Official - Tata Zest to launch next month

On the sidelines of the Tata Zest media drive program, Tata officials confirmed to Indian Autos Blog that the compact sedan will be launched in August. The test drive report is embargoed till next Monday and therefore in this story we will lay out the technical specifications and features that we are already aware of.

The Zest will be powered by the 1.2-litre Revotron turbocharged petrol and the 1.3-litre Quadrajet (Fiat Multijet) diesel engines. The petrol engine generates 88.2 bhp (90 PS) and 140 Nm of torque and comes mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The tech-laden engine offers three driving modes - City, Eco and Sport.

The oil burner also pushes out 88.2 bhp (90 PS) but offers a higher torque output of 200 Nm. Transmission options of the diesel Zest include a 5-speed manual and an AMT supplied by Magneti Marelli.

The sedan measures 3,995 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width and 1,570 mm in height. The wheelbase stands at 2,470 mm and the turning radius is 5.1 m. The car is shod with 185/60 - R15 tyres.

The ground clearances of petrol and diesel (AMT) versions are 175 mm and 165 mm respectively. The petrol variants weigh between 1,115 kg and 1,135 kg while the diesel AMT variant tips the scale at 1,170 kg.

The top end variant's equipment list - longer than its rivals - includes projector headlamps, bumper mounted LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, 15-inch alloy wheels, 8-speaker audio system, touchscreen multimedia infotainment system with voice command and SMS readout supports, reverse parking sensor, corner stability control, dual airbags, ABS and EBD.

Competitors: Maruti Swift Dzire, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Xcent

Expected Price: INR 5-8 lakhs, ex-showroom