Tata Punch ICE vs EV: How Close Are They Now?
The Tata Punch has always been one of the most sensible compact SUVs in India, but with the 2026 Tata Punch ICE facelift, the gap between the petrol/CNG version and the Punch EV has narrowed more than ever. Honestly, after looking closely at both, I feel Tata has intentionally blurred the lines to make the choice more about usage than features or design.
The ICE Punch finally gets a long-overdue facelift, while the Punch EV continues with the updates it received in August 2025, which were incremental rather than transformational. This makes the comparison far more interesting today than it was a year ago.
Design and Exterior Differences
At first glance, the overall design language is nearly identical between the Punch ICE and EV. Both SUVs feature angular LED headlamps, gloss-finished ORVMs with integrated turn indicators, chunky plastic body cladding, and pull-type door handles with C-pillar-mounted rear handles that enhance the sporty stance.
That said, a few EV-specific touches still stand out. The Punch EV gets connected DRLs at the front, arrow-style LED tail-lamp elements, uniquely styled faux skid plates, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The ICE facelift counters this with a connected light bar, slightly reworked DRLs, tail-lamps, and bumpers that give it a fresher look than before.
Dimensionally, the differences are minimal. The ICE Punch is 19mm longer and has 3mm more ground clearance, which is practically negligible. The EV is 18mm taller and scores a practical win with a 14-litre front trunk (frunk), something I personally find very useful for storing charging cables or small bags.
Interior and Features: Almost at Par
This is where the facelift really changes the game. The 2026 Punch ICE now shares many premium features with the EV, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 2-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo, auto-dimming IRVM, and a 360-degree camera setup. Earlier, these were strong reasons to lean toward the EV.
However, the Punch EV still feels a bit more future-ready inside. It gets a fully digital 10.25-inch driver’s display, compared to the ICE model’s 7-inch part-digital cluster, and also offers front seat ventilation, which is a big plus in Indian conditions.
The centre console layout clearly reflects the difference in powertrains. The EV features a rotary drive selector and an electronic parking brake, making it feel more modern. The ICE version sticks to a traditional gear lever and manual handbrake, which some buyers may actually prefer for familiarity.
Audio quality is similar, with both versions getting four speakers, but the ICE has four tweeters, while the EV makes do with two.
Powertrain Options and Performance
The Punch ICE lineup is impressively diverse. The Accomplished Plus (S) variants, priced between ₹8.99 lakh and ₹10.54 lakh, offer:
- 88hp 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol (MT/AMT)
- 120hp 1.2-litre turbo-petrol (MT)
- 73hp CNG (AMT)
This wide range makes the ICE Punch extremely flexible for different buyers and budgets.
On the other hand, the Punch EV Empowered Plus S variants sit much higher, between ₹13.14 lakh and ₹14.44 lakh. Buyers can choose between:
- 25kWh battery with 315km claimed range
- 35kWh battery with 421km claimed range
Both versions power a front-mounted electric motor and, in my opinion, offer a far smoother and quieter driving experience, especially for city use.
Pricing and Running Costs
There’s no ignoring the price gap. The Punch ICE is priced from ₹5.59 lakh to ₹10.54 lakh, while the Punch EV starts at ₹9.99 lakh and goes up to ₹14.44 lakh. That’s a substantial difference in upfront cost.
However, the EV clearly wins on running costs, especially if you drive frequently and have access to home or office charging. Lower energy costs and reduced maintenance can offset the higher initial price over time.
Which One Should You Choose?
If I had to sum it up, the Punch ICE now offers exceptional value for money, especially after the facelift. It looks modern, is feature-rich, and gives you multiple fuel and gearbox options at a much lower price point.
The Punch EV, meanwhile, still makes more sense for urban buyers who want a refined, future-ready driving experience and can justify the higher upfront cost with long-term savings.
That said, the equation may change soon. The Punch EV is due for a proper facelift, and once that happens, choosing between the ICE and EV versions could become genuinely difficult.
For now, it really comes down to how you drive, where you drive, and how long you plan to keep the car.
