Tata Aeris iCNG Review: Three Reasons to Buy and Two to Avoid

The recently launched Tata Aeris arrives as a heavily updated version of the Tigor, featuring a modern exterior design and a feature-packed interior while keeping the same engine choices.

Design And Interior

The exterior features slim LED headlights with integrated daytime running lamps connected by a gloss-black trim, a front bumper with wide air inlets, new LED fog lamps, and a clamshell bonnet. The side profile includes 14-inch stylised steel wheels on CNG variants, wheel-arch cladding, chrome accents on the door handles and window line, and a coupe-like roofline ending in tail-lights wrapped in red trim. Inside, the cabin contains a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, a semi-digital driver's display, part-leatherette seat upholstery, and ventilated front seats. Additional cabin amenities include automatic climate control with rear vents, a 360-degree camera with a blind-spot monitor, and a 6-speaker sound system.

Practicality And Ride

The CNG model uses dual cylinders instead of a single tank, leaving room for a cabin-sized trolley and a couple of backpacks. While the official capacity is unannounced, a comparable Tigor setup provides a 227-litre boot. Cabin storage includes door pockets, a space under the front centre armrest, cup holders in both centre consoles, and a large glove box. The suspension is tuned for Indian conditions, absorbing rough road surfaces well, and the car remains stable at high speeds on the highway with decent steering feedback.

Drawbacks

The CNG-AMT transmission can feel jerky during rapid acceleration due to a noticeable pause before the powertrain responds, requiring careful planning for highway overtaking. Cabin noise also increases once engine revs cross 2,500rpm, accompanied by vibrations and wind noise on longer trips.

Context

Dual-cylinder CNG setups have become a popular solution in the Indian automobile market to solve the long-standing problem of lost luggage space in factory-fitted gas cars. Compact sedans like these are widely used by city commuters who want low running costs without giving up everyday practical utility.