The sedan TATA Indigo 2002 - 2016 year modification 1.4 MT (71 hp)

Engine
Engine type	diesel
Engine location	front, transverse
Engine capacity, cm³	1405
Boost type	turbocharging
Maximum power, hp/kW at rpm	71 / 52 at 4500
Maximum torque, N*m at rpm	135 at 2000
Cylinder arrangement	in-line
Number of cylinders	4
Number of valves per cylinder	2
Engine power supply system	engine with undivided combustion chambers (direct fuel injection)
Compression ratio	22
Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm	75 × 79.5
General information
Brand country	India
Car class	B
Number of doors	4
Performance indicators
Fuel consumption, l city / highway / combined	8 / 4.8 / —
Fuel type	diesel fuel
Maximum speed, km/h	155
Acceleration to 100 km/h, s	14
Ecological class	Euro 3
Sizes in mm
Length	4150
Width	1620
Height	1540
Wheelbase	2450
Ground clearance	165
Front track width	1400
Rear track width	1380
Wheel size	175 / 65 / R14
Suspension and brakes
Type of front suspension	independent, spring
Type of rear suspension	independent, spring
Front brakes	disc
Rear brakes	drum
Transmission
Transmission	mechanical
Number of gears	5
Drive type	front
Volume and weight
Fuel tank capacity, l	42
Curb weight, kg	1090
Trunk volume min/max, l	450
Gross weight, kg	1490

Overview of the TATA Indigo 1.4 MT (71 hp)

The TATA Indigo 1.4 MT is a compact sedan that was produced by the Indian automaker TATA Motors from 2002 to 2016. Designed as a practical and affordable vehicle, it caters to the needs of urban commuters and small families. With its diesel engine, front-wheel drive, and manual transmission, the Indigo offers a balance of fuel efficiency and performance. Its compact dimensions and lightweight design make it suitable for navigating tight city streets while providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo.

Performance and Efficiency

The TATA Indigo is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 71 horsepower and 135 Nm of torque. While its acceleration to 100 km/h in 14 seconds may not be groundbreaking, it provides adequate power for daily driving. The car achieves a maximum speed of 155 km/h, making it suitable for highway cruising. Fuel efficiency is one of its strong points, with a city fuel consumption of 8 liters per 100 km and an impressive highway consumption of 4.8 liters per 100 km. This makes the Indigo an economical choice for long-distance travel.

Design and Dimensions

The TATA Indigo features a classic sedan design with a length of 4150 mm, a width of 1620 mm, and a height of 1540 mm. Its wheelbase of 2450 mm ensures a comfortable ride for passengers, while the ground clearance of 165 mm allows it to handle rough roads with ease. The car's trunk offers a minimum capacity of 450 liters, providing ample space for luggage or groceries. The compact dimensions make it easy to park and maneuver in urban environments.

Engine and Transmission

Under the hood, the Indigo houses a 1.4-liter inline-4 diesel engine with direct fuel injection and turbocharging. The engine's compression ratio of 22:1 ensures efficient combustion, contributing to its fuel economy. The car is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, which provides a smooth and engaging driving experience. The front-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Suspension and Braking

The TATA Indigo features an independent spring suspension system at both the front and rear, ensuring a comfortable ride even on uneven surfaces. The front brakes are disc-type, offering reliable stopping power, while the rear brakes are drum-type, which are sufficient for the car's weight and performance. This combination provides a balanced and safe driving experience.

Pros and Cons

The TATA Indigo 1.4 MT has several strengths, including its fuel efficiency, compact design, and affordability. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as its modest acceleration and dated Euro 3 emission standards. Despite these limitations, the Indigo remains a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and economical sedan.

Critical Findings

The TATA Indigo offers excellent fuel efficiency, particularly on highways.
Its compact dimensions make it ideal for urban driving and parking.
The 1.4-liter diesel engine provides adequate power for daily commuting.
The car's suspension system ensures a comfortable ride on various road surfaces.
Its Euro 3 emission standard may limit its appeal in regions with stricter environmental regulations.

Historical Context

The TATA Indigo was introduced in 2002 as part of TATA Motors' strategy to offer affordable and reliable vehicles to the Indian market. During its production run, it became a popular choice among middle-class families and first-time car buyers. Its discontinuation in 2016 marked the end of an era for this iconic model, as TATA Motors shifted its focus to more modern and environmentally friendly vehicles.

Conclusion

The TATA Indigo 1.4 MT is a testament to TATA Motors' commitment to providing practical and affordable vehicles. While it may not excel in terms of performance or modern features, its fuel efficiency, compact design, and reliability make it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. Whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a long journey, the Indigo offers a dependable and economical driving experience.