Cars Specs

Tata Motors has already updated the Nano with power steering and an upmarket interior to help improve the small car’s performance in the entry-level segment. Now what else can be expected soon besides the long-rumoured diesel version? A Nano with a clever automatic gearbox? Yes, indeed.
Shown first at the 2014 Auto Expo, the upcoming Nano AMT has been caught on test on multiple occasions, suggesting that the official launch could be ahead of what’s being anticipated thus far.
Exterior
External shots from the existing set of spy images reveal the ‘smiley-faced’ facia of the Nano. This is essentially the new design language from Tata Motors for the A-segment hatchback which, by the look of it, will keep the overall proportions but include a new fascia and rear end.
The Nano AMT will also feature a revised set of headlights although the rear set of lights and the chrome treatment from the existing model will be carried over to this new semi-automatic version.
Interior
Like the exterior, the majority of the interior will remain the same but with obvious enhancements that will bring the model up to date with the competition. The cabin will continue to feature the centrally mounted instrument binnacle and the circular air vents. Of course, the biggest addition will be the chrome-finished gear stick for the AMT gearbox which will replace the traditional four-speeder. The Nano is known for being quite spacious despite its compact footprint and this AMT version will be no different. The car can seat up to five occupants in decent comfort.
Engine and Gearbox
There are chances that the Nano AMT might be powered by the new 1-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine, but it could be the 624cc engine found in the current model that is more likely to be used. Expect the Nano AMT to deliver marginally lesser or similar efficiency to that of the manual gearbox version which returns 25.35 kmpl to a litre.
The AMT gearbox is likely to be the same F-Tronic unit currently seen in the new Zest compact sedan. The clever new gearbox will eventually be available to a range of models from Tata Motors’ line-up.
Price and competition
With the Nano AMT, Tata Motors is looking to further explore the entry-level small car segment. An affordable, easy to drive small car is the ideal way to get round the ever growing traffic menace, after all.
The upcoming Nano AMT will compete with other small cars featuring a similar gearbox technology. While Maruti Suzuki’s Celerio is the only hatchback currently available with the AMT technology, it will soon be joined by the company’s other small car – the new Alto K10. The latter will pose a bigger threat to the upcoming Nano AMT.