Tata Nano (2009) new CAR test review : World Best Car Image Zone

At last we’ve driven the new Tata Nano. The world’s cheapest car is launched today in India – and CAR was there to bag a drive in the new Nano that’s rocked our very notion of affordable transport for the masses.

It’s a car that creates huge interest, especially on the crowded streets of India. Not bad for a car that’s cheaper than some lawnmowers in its home nation. We don’t blame the crowds that form around the Nano. This is a car that could revolutionise the way Indians get around. And it sure looks intriguing.

The Nano is rear-engined, so you get air intakes nestling in the recess behind the rear doors. The tiny two-cylinder engine is claustrophobically packaged, so each and every means of extracting the hot air is used by the engineers, including a vent built into the rear valance.

Tata Nano: the first impressions

Before we progress to on-road dynamics, take a moment to soak up the Nano’s weird proportions. It’s tall and narrow, and a little bit odd. It’s not even a hatchback – the rear window is glued to the bodyshell – and that sharply raked front windscreen provides an unusual, wee face.

The packaging also frees up more space for bodies inside. With no engine up front, the centre console, steering wheel and driver’s seat can be pushed forward by a few good inches, releasing hundreds of litres of space for the back benchers.

And it’s absolutely vast inside the Nano. The tall-boy design affords generous headroom and a great view out. Throw in four big windows to allow ample air and light, and the Nano easily becomes one of the most spacious small hatchbacks around.

Statistics

How much?	£1,369
On sale in the UK:	Now
Engine:	624cc 2cyl, 35bhp @ 5250rpm, 35lb ft @ 3000rpm
Transmission:	Four-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Performance:	30.0sec 0-60mph, 65mph, 60mpg, 101g/km CO2 (est)
How heavy / made of?	600kg/steel
How big (length/width/height in mm)?	3100/1500/1600