Background :

The Indica was Tata?s first effort at building a global name for itself. Tata wanted to give people a big car at the price of a small car which would be at par to world class standards. It managed the first two though questions still remain on the latter. The Indica is available in both petrol and diesel versions, though the initial thrust was on diesel alone with the petrol version coming as the base model priced little above the Maruti 800. But Tata recently upgraded the petrol version in an effort to further boost sales and meet the stricter emission norms. version coming as the base model priced little above the Maruti 800. But Tata recently upgraded the petrol version in an effort to further boost sales and meet the stricter emission norms.

Design And Engineering :

The Indica can be badged as one of the best styled cars on Indian roads today. Probably due to the fact that it was done at well-know Italian design house I.DE.A. Dimensionally, the Indica is the largest ?small? car. The exquisitely shaped large winged headlights, the grille with a grin and a striking Christmas tree tail-light cluster gives the Indica a distinct identity. The Indica uses conventional MacPherson struts in front while the rear employs a fully independent layout ? a typical semi-trailing arm with coil springs mounted on the shock absorbers. Benefits of these are improved ride and handling but the downside is increased sensitivity.

Engine And Transmission :

The Indica 2000?s promise lies in its engine, the heart of which is the Hitachi custom-made Hitachi MPFI system that comes bristling with electronic hardware to optimise combustion and hence performance and emissions. Also, with each cylinder breathing through four valves, there is a huge leap in power output from 60bhp to 75bhp. With 1405cc under the hood, the Indica has a huge displacement advantage over its rivasl. It effortlessly surges forward in any gear, at any speed. The Indica now comes with a new five-speed ?box. But gearshift is rubbery and imprecise. Throws are long and the ?box tends to whine continuously.

Interiors and Convenience Features :

The feeling of space is quite similar to a mid-size car. Passenger rooms is its biggest strength with loads of legroom and width. Front seats are generous but short drivers can find the dashboard?s sill too high. The dash now comes with sporty white dials. The dual-tone centre console, finished in silver, adds a touch of excitement to the otherwise drab grey-on-grey interiors. Overall levels of equipment are high. It?s the only small car to have all four power windows. Air-conditioning is standard.

On the road : Steering and Suspension :

The Indica?s road behaviour is good for sedate motoring. The large wheelbase and weight play a key role in giving the Indica its sense of composure. Lack of steering response makes the front end feel loose. Raise front suspension amplifies this problem. Softer rear suspension makes the car more pliant, transmitting less of the road to the occupants. But suspension is still clunky and drums unwanted noise.