Tata’s Indica Vista was the last test car I drove before last year’s year-end break commenced. The Ignis is the flagship Vista and the only derivative in the range to feature ABS and EBD, as well as dual-front airbags, as standard. Not that many people will care, given SA’s car-buying patterns (safety device denialism, as I like to call it) and Tata’s market research findings (the justification behind Tata’s decision not to equip other Vista derivatives with these safety features). Anyway, the point is the interior is well-equipped (electric windows, electric side mirrors, Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port are also standard); while the dashboard has a pleasant enough two-tone colour and grain finish to it. As for the radio: it must rank among one of the most frustrating pieces of artificial intelligence I’ve ever had the misfortune of interacting with. Suffice to say, I imagine a PhD in electronic deciphering is required for best results. I eventually decided to leave it off, even after consulting the car’s handbook. The rear seat bench is peculiar in that it offers an overly large perching area, which subsequently steals space from the boot, thus rendering it modest in size by B-segment standards. Said boot is redeemed as it plays host to a full-sized (14-inch) spare wheel as back-up - a must in this country. So, what of the old Fiat Uno engine that powers this puppy? Well, as Mark commented after his launch drive, we’re not sure why Tata even bothered with this 16-valve unit. It develops a mere 10kW more than the 8-valve versions in the range, and because of its multi-valve configuration needs to be revved harder to achieve a similar result. In fact, when comparing Tata’s claimed outputs, this unit develops a mere two Nm more torque than its 8-valve brethren, but does so at 4 750rpm, while the 8-valve does so at 3 250rpm. I haven’t driven the SOHC alternative, but it’s reasonable to assume it’s a little less thrashy than this DOHC one. In any event, those extra 10kW disappear when one makes use of the A/C - it’s almost as if the four-cylinder motor develops a mild case of emphysema as chilled air enters the cabin through the ventilation ducts. Still, there is little doubt that Tata’s new Indica Vista is a vastly improved hatch. It drives better, handles better, looks better and is put together better. But while it’s a significant step in the right direction for Tata, it still lags behind the Korean and Japanese marques. I’d far sooner shell out a further R10 000 and snap up a Hyundai i20. It’s difficult to find fault with the i20’s superior performance and overall refinement, not to mention its mightier service plan and warranty. And that’s before we consider factors like brand appeal, resale value and rate of depreciation (the original Tata Indica is the fastest depreciating vehicle in SA, according to a Moneyweb survey). Tata has improved, but the Vista is hardly class-leading I’m afraid.
