How is your experience with the Tata Tiago XZA AMT?

When it comes to personal experiences with the Tata Tiago XZA AMT, opinions can vary widely, and it's essential to understand the nuances of what an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) can offer. In this comprehensive review, we'll explore the features, strengths, and weaknesses of the Tiago XZA AMT, drawing on a two-year user's experience and comparing it to expectations and performance in various driving conditions.

Understanding AMT and Its Characteristics

The term AMT stands for Automated Manual Transmission, which, as the name suggests, is a hybrid system that combines the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic one. For those unfamiliar, in an AMT, the clutch is operated electronically by the car itself, allowing for smoother gear shifts while still retaining the mechanism familiar to manual transmission drivers. One of the most notable characteristics accompanying an AMT system is the 'head nod,' which can be a gentle shake or jolt as the transmission shifts gears.

Driving Modes: City and Sport

The Tiago XZA AMT comes equipped with two distinct driving modes: City and Sport. The City mode is designed to maximize fuel efficiency, while the Sport mode, activated by a button near the AMT gear lever, shifts gears at a higher RPM, giving the car a sportier feel on the road. Unlike the smooth operation of a CVT or torque converter, the AMT in the Tiago may not offer the same level of smoothness, and this is something new drivers should be aware of. In the City mode, the Tiago delivers impressive fuel economy, and in Sport mode, the performance is decent. However, the overall driving experience may require a bit more caution and a 'light foot' to avoid discomfort.

Real-World Driving Experience

Having driven the Tiago XZA AMT for nearly two years, the car has consistently met and exceeded expectations across various terrains. From congested Bangalore roads to highways and hilly regions, the car has proved its reliability and versatility. In the process, I've encountered a few challenges, but the overall driving experience has been very positive.

Pros and Cons of the Tiago XZA AMT

Pros:

Amazing Looks: The car's design is aesthetically pleasing and unique, appealing to those who appreciate modern and sporty designs. Superb Audio Performance: The audio system is praised for its clarity and quality, though it occasionally behaves erratically at times. Comfort on Highways: The ride quality on highways is comfortable, offering a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Build Quality: The build quality is exceptional, far surpassing that of other similarly priced cars on the market.

Cons:

Highway AMT Response: The AMT transmission in the Tiago can be unpredictable in traffic, with a delayed response to acceleration. This can be particularly challenging for city driving, especially for new users. Driver Side AC Vent: The driver side air conditioner can sometimes deliver higher temperatures, despite setting the desired temperature. This is a common issue across all Tiagos and has been resolved through service. Steering Assist Delay: The steering assist system takes a minute to activate after starting the vehicle, making the first minute of driving feel less responsive. This has not been officially resolved by the manufacturer. Indicator Blinker: The indicator light often switches off before a turn is completed, requiring multiple indicator activations per turn. This is a known issue in the Tiago. Dashboard Vibration: Persistent dashboard vibrations, which have not been resolved despite multiple visits to the service station, may be a source of discomfort for some drivers.

Conclusion

Overall, I found the Tata Tiago XZA AMT to be a reliable and capable car, especially for those looking for a balance between manual control and automatic convenience. While there are some areas for improvement, the overall driving experience, service quality, and build quality make it a strong contender in its price range. If you have any reservations about the AMT, it might be worth considering the manual variant for a smoother and more predictable driving experience. However, if you're willing to give it a chance, the Tiago XZA AMT can be a great choice for hassle-free driving in various conditions.