Introduction

It’s an engineering miracle, they say. But, like every other miracle, only a few seem to have got it. I didn’t. I still don’t. But, there’s no taking away from the fact that it is small. It is cheap. And, it looks and feels more expensive, more upmarket and better engineered than its purchase price would suggest. This is the Tata GenX Nano and now with the AMT, makes for a great city commuter.

Why I’d Buy It

It’s sort of cool. Like an underdog who has been excluded, looked down upon and completely rubbished, but it still manages to rise with a never-die attitude. How can one not like that! I’d buy one for that alone.

Plus, it has some positives. It’s practical: small, with a tight turning circle and an automated manual. And even though it is only as fast as a 150cc, it is still allowed on the expressway! And you don’t get wet in the monsoons. Now, that’s got to count for something.

Why I’d Avoid It

…because it is only as fast as a 150cc motorcycle. It’s also top heavy…in car terms, mind. So, it’s not exactly stable around a corner. What makes this worse is the fact that the GenX Nano is a rear-wheel drive. But, I am too scared to drift it because it might topple first and spin up its rear wheels later.

I also hate the visibility on the Nano. It’s a small car, for the city. Then why do I have such huge blind spots through the A and C pillars? It’s pointless. And, of course, it runs drum brakes on all corners. Who does that in today’s age of self-driving cars!

My Favourite Version

The AMT.

Quick Facts

Price: Cheap

Engine: Anemic

Gearbox: Convenient

FE: Excessive

0-100kmph: …forever