Tata has launched the new Bolt hatchback and sedan in South Africa.

We recently reported on Tata’s dramatic product overhaul which will see a variety of new Tata products introduced locally with improvements in aftersales support and general service expected. Tata Motors has now started its offensive in South Africa with the introduction of the Bolt hatchback and sedan which according to the company, offers a “comfortable and responsive driving experience”.

Johnny Oommen, Head International Business, Passenger Vehicles, Tata Motors said: “The Bolt range, loaded with many segment-leading features, is built to global design and product standards and will appeal equally to the first time buyers as well as existing automobile owners looking for a new and exciting product.”

Under the Bonnet

Both the Tata Bolt hatchback and Bolt sedan are powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged REVOTRON engine that develops 66 kW and 140 Nm of torque with power transferred to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox. Tata has said that it may introduce an automatic gearbox to the Bolt range in 2016.

The Tata Bolt also has a Multi-Drive feature where the driver can switch between the default Sport mode, ECO and City mode.

Features

The Tata Bolt is offered in two trim levels namely XMS and XT with a choice of five colours to choose from. In XT trim, the Bolt is fitted with a 5-inch ConnectNext Touchscreen with Advance voice recognition, SMS notification fully automatic temperature control accessed via the touchscreen. Video playback via USB or SD card is possible on the system. The steering wheel also has mounted audio and phone controls.

Standard features include electric windows and mirrors as well as remote openers for the fuel flap and luggage compartment. The boot offers 210-litres of space in the hatchback while the sedan offers 360-litres. In terms of safety features, the Bolt is fitted with ABS and EBD as well as dual front airbags and Cornering Stability Control.

Read our first drive of the Tata Bolt here.

Tata Bolt Price in South Africa

Bolt Hatch XMS – R132 995

Bolt Hatch XT – R142 995

Bolt Sedan XMS – R142 995

Bolt Sedan XT – R152 995