The launch of Indica in 1998 marked a special occasion at Tata Motors.
Strictly speaking, it was not the company's first
passenger car. The Sierra, Safari and Estate based on the 207 platform were
introduced even before the Indica was launched. The Indica, however, marked
an entry into the "real" passenger car territory and at a price
that would give the established players a run for their money. The car as a
platform saw the development of derivatives - a sedan and a compact estate.
It offered a steep learning curve for the company that was better known as a
producer of trucks rather than passenger cars.
Come
2008 and Tata Motors has launched the second generation Indica. Gathering on
the success and experience of the earlier generation model, the new Indica,
which is christened as Indica Vista, promises yet another growth story. This
is reflected from the very look of the Indica Vista. A bold stance with
long, slender headlamps that run into the flanks and form the basis for a
prominent crease at the waist level presents a polished demeanour that
speaks confidence and maturity. Supporting the design is a new monocoque. A
completely new skin according to Tata sources, which uses higher strength
steel panels for enhanced torsional and bending stiffness. Tailor welded
blanks have been used for the first time to reduce weight. Under the tight,
well-proportioned skin is a car that has grown in dimensions.
 Compared
to the earlier generation Indica, this one is nearly 3.8 m long, 1.7 m wide
and flaunts a wheelbase of 2470 mm, which is comparable with C-class sedans
like the Ford Fiesta and Hyundai Verna. If this hints at the Indigo and
Estate, which are expected in the due course of time to compete with the
likes of Fiesta and Verna and under cut them on value, the new Vista is
certain to give its competitors a run for their money.
With
prices starting at Rs 3.49 lakhs, the Indica Vista offers wider door
openings that ease the task of getting in and out. The interior is markedly
different and speaks better build quality. The central instrument console is
an indicator and is also the dashboard and door pads with soft grain
structure. The switchgear is a pleasure to operate. Longer wheelbase
translates into more space inside and also better comfort. Three people can
thus accommodate more easily at the rear. At front, the driver's seat in
height adjustable and the steering is tilt adjustable too.
The
surprising part of the Indica Vista is the range of engines it offers. The
1405cc, 71PS turbo-diesel is offered but the highlight of the this
particular model is the availability of the 1.3-litre common-rail (Quadrajet)
diesel engine from Fiat, which is made at the Tata-Fiat joint venture at
Ranjangaon. The Indica Vista is the third car in this segment to get this
engine after the Swift and the Palio. The Safire engine, available on the
Indica Vista is claimed to be the 1197cc FIRE petrol unit seen on the Palio.
It does 65bhp and has a continuous variable cam phaser and drive by wire for
the throttle.
 In
the Indica Vista, the multijet offers a lively performance with an initial
zest that is backed by a strong throw of torque from lower down.
Acceleration is strong and the gears shift with ease and fair amount of
precision. The steering feedback, though not as spot on as the Palio, is
better than that of the earlier model and combines with the stiffer chassis
to result in a ride and handling that is much better than the earlier Indica.
The
Indica Vista, which is backed by a loyal group of vendors, just not just
look different but is an different personality all together. It is mature,
polished and better composed than the earlier Indica ever was. Even small
details like the profile of doors that help deal with water seepage problems
faced by the owners of the earlier Indica is worth noting. The best part of
the Indica Vista is the stage at which the company's engineering prowess has
reached as far as the passenger cars are concerned. The Indica Vista marks
yet another jewel in the Tata crown.
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