Tata Zest XTA Automatic

The Tata Zest XTA Automatic is a well-rounded compact sedan that offers a lot of value for its price. It comes with a 1.3-liter Quadrajet diesel engine producing 89 bhp and 200 Nm of torque, paired with an automatic (AMT) transmission. The car features a robust build quality, with a solid exterior and a comfortable, feature-rich interior. The Zest boasts an 8-speaker Harman infotainment system, automatic climate control, and parking sensors, among other amenities. It also includes safety features like ABS, EBD, and dual airbags. With ample legroom, a spacious boot, and a compliant ride quality, the Zest XTA Automatic is a great option for those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and feature-packed compact sedan.

The Tata Zest XTA Automatic is a compelling option in the compact sedan segment, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and features that make it a strong contender. The diesel-automatic combo, powered by the 1.3-liter Quadrajet engine, provides a smooth and efficient driving experience, especially in city conditions. The cars build quality and fit and finish have significantly improved, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and well-equipped vehicle. However, the lack of a creep mode in the automatic transmission can be a minor inconvenience. Overall, the Zest XTA Automatic is a value-for-money offering that ticks all the essentials, making it a worthy consideration for potential buyers.

Despite its discontinuation for private purchase in 2017, the Tata Zest XTA Automatic continued to be available for taxi services until its permanent discontinuation in April 2019. This decision marked the end of an era for a vehicle that had sold over 1.5 lakh units. I believe the Zest left a lasting impact on the compact sedan segment.

Tata Motors offered various discounts and offers on the Zest, including the XTA Automatic, to boost sales. These offers, valid until the end of specific months, included benefits worth over Rs 50,000. I believe such offers helped attract more buyers to the Zest.

In March 2018, Tata Motors introduced the Zest Premio, a special edition that included additional features like a touchscreen infotainment system. While not all Premio editions were automatic, the XTA variant benefited from these upgrades, enhancing its appeal. I think these special editions are a great way to keep the vehicle relevant.

The Tata Zest XTA Automatic received a 4-star rating in the Global NCAP crash test, a significant improvement in safety standards for the vehicle. This rating was a result of the car being equipped with two airbags and other safety features. I think this rating boosted consumer confidence in the Zests safety.

In 2016, Tata Motors launched the Zest Sportz Edition, which, although not exclusively an XTA variant, highlighted the versatility of the Zest platform. This edition included several cosmetic and feature upgrades, showing that the XTA could also be customized for a sportier look. I believe such editions help keep the vehicle fresh in the market.

The Tata Zest XTA Automatic, although discontinued, was priced competitively in the Indian market. At the time of its availability, the ex-showroom price was around Rs. 9.89 lakh. When factoring in additional costs such as registration, insurance, and other taxes, the on-road price would have been approximately Rs. 11.5 lakh to Rs. 12 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. This pricing positioned the Zest XTA Automatic as a competitive option against other compact sedans, offering a good balance of features and performance at a reasonable cost.

The mileage of the Tata Zest XTA Automatic is one of its strong points, especially for those concerned about running costs. With a claimed mileage of 21.58 kmpl, this diesel-automatic variant is quite fuel-efficient. In real-world conditions, users have reported mileage ranging from 19 to 21 kmpl on highways and around 17 kmpl in city driving, making it an economical choice for both long trips and daily commutes.