Tata Motors has introduced the Aeris, a compact sedan priced from Rs 5.29 lakh ($5,500), in the Indian market. The sub-four-metre model is a heavily updated version of the Tigor, which has been on sale since 2017 and received facelifts in 2020 and 2025. The new name accompanies sharper styling, improved equipment and a value-focused positioning that undercuts key rivals in the segment.
To demonstrate the structural integrity of the model and the safety credentials of its CNG system, Tata subjected the Aeris to a series of durability challenges. After driving through deep water and on gravel, a dump truck unloaded 20 tons (44,092 lbs) of gravel and stone debris onto the car's roof, completely burying it. When the debris was cleared, the roof was slightly deformed and the windows were broken, but the passenger cell remained intact, the doors opened, and the vehicle started and drove away under its own power. The debris landed progressively rather than all at once, but the stunt delivered a clear message to the target demographic.
Visually, the Aeris retains the characteristic notchback silhouette and subcompact footprint of the Tigor, measuring 3,995 mm (157.3 in) in length with a 2,450 mm (96.5 in) wheelbase. The front end adopts simpler and more aggressive headlights similar to those of the recently updated Tiago hatchback, combined with a fully covered gloss black grille and modern bumper intakes. The profile gains subtle plastic cladding around the wheel arches and new 14-inch or 15-inch wheels. At the rear, slimmer taillights with a full-width cluster and a revised bumper complete the exterior changes.
Inside, the layout remains similar to its predecessor, but the dashboard and climate vents have been redesigned, and the materials now include recycled content. Automatic variants feature a rotary gear selector and paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. High-spec trims are equipped with a 10.25-inch infotainment display, a digital instrument cluster, dual wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, rear parking sensors, an integrated dashcam, ventilated front seats and rear climate vents. Six airbags are standard across the lineup, with systems such as Blind View Monitoring offered in the flagship trim. The five-seater cabin offers up to 419 litres (14.8 cubic feet) of cargo space.
The Aeris rides on an upgraded version of the Tata XAlpha architecture and offers a choice of two non-electrified naturally aspirated 1.2-litre powertrains. The petrol version produces 85 hp (63 kW), while the CNG variant generates 75 hp (56 kW). In both cases, power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission.
Order books are open in India, with first deliveries scheduled for October 11. Pricing starts at Rs 5.29 lakh ($5,500) for the entry-level Smart trim with a manual gearbox and rises to Rs 9.74 lakh ($10,200) for the flagship Accomplished trim with the CNG engine and an automatic. The entry price makes it the most affordable car with a three-box silhouette in the region, undercutting rivals such as the Hyundai Aura, Honda Amaze and Suzuki Dzire. Buyers seeking even better value can opt for the mechanically related Tata Tiago hatchback, which starts at Rs 4.69 lakh ($4,900).