Manual vs Automatic Used Tata Altroz: Which One Do Buyers Prefer?

The Tata Altroz is a fairly new car, launched in January of 2020. Positioned as a premium hatchback, it is known for its solid build quality, high safety ratings, and feature-rich cabin. It is available with both petrol and diesel engines; however, only the petrol variants offer both manual and automatic transmissions. The Altroz caters to a wide range of buyers and even offers a sporty Racer edition with a 6-speed manual and a powerful turbo-petrol engine.

The CARS24 2024 used car market report states that the share of automatic vehicles in the second hand market has increased from 11.8% in 2022 to 14.7% in 2024. However, for used Tata Altroz, its automatic transmission sales remain relatively low due to the variant being launched just a couple of years ago.

Used Tata Altroz Market Sees Higher Demand for Manual Variants

Among used Tata Altroz models, its manual transmission variants remain the overwhelming choice for buyers. This is partly due to the majority of variants sporting a 5-speed or 6-speed manual gearbox. The automatic gearbox is limited to the petrol engines only, while the diesel and CNG options are only available with manual gearboxes. 

Affordability, higher fuel efficiency, and lower maintenance costs make manual transmission variants the dominant choice for buyers. In 2024, the sales split for used Tata Altroz models was:

A look at previous years highlights a steady trend:

This data indicates that nearly 9 out of 10 used Altroz models sold come equipped with a manual transmission. This is also because used automatic Tata Altroz variants have only recently entered the second-hand market. The automatic models do provide a more convenient driving experience however, their relatively lower resale value and higher initial cost make them unpopular among used car buyers.

Demand for Used Automatic Tata Altroz Rises Gradually Post 2022

From 2023 to 2024, market trends have shown a slow but steady increase in the demand for automatic transmission-equipped Tata Altroz models:

• 2021: No Automatic models were available for the Tata Altroz.
• 2022: Tata launches the Altroz automatic transmission, used market share was minimal at 0.9% of all used Tata Altroz sales.
• 2023: Automatic transmission share rose to 6.9% of all used Tata Altroz sales.
• 2024: Automatic transmission sales peaked at 7.8% of all used Tata Altroz sales.

The Tata Altroz DCA (Dual-Clutch Automatic) offers a refined and sporty driving experience with the quicker-shifting dual-clutch automatic gearbox. This makes it more appealing to performance-oriented buyers rather than those seeking the convenience of an automatic gearbox. 

Thus the manual variants remain the top choice for pre owned Tata Altroz buyers. Since automatics are generally perceived as more expensive and costlier to maintain in semi-urban and rural areas, the uptake of AT Altroz hatchbacks remains slow, with a stronger preference among city commuters.

Tata Altroz Engine and Transmission Options

Since its launch, the Tata Altroz has sported multiple engine and transmission options catering to different buyer preferences.

Petrol Variants

• 1.2-Litre Naturally Aspirated Revotron Petrol Engine
  • Transmission options: 5-speed Manual / 6-speed DCA Automatic
  • Power: 86 bhp
  • Torque: 113 Nm

• 1.2-Litre iTurbo Petrol Engine
  • Transmission options: 5-speed Manual / 6-speed Manual
  • Power: 108 bhp / 118bhp
  • Torque: 140 Nm / 170 Nm

Diesel Variant

• 1.5-Litre Revotorq Diesel Engine
  • Transmission options: 5-speed Manual only
  • Power: 89 bhp
  • Torque: 200 Nm

CNG Variant

• 1.2-Litre Revotron Petrol + CNG
  • Transmission options: 5-speed Manual only
  • Power: 73 bhp (on CNG)
  • Torque: 103 Nm (on CNG)

The Altroz’s DCA gearbox is a premium automatic system that provides smooth and quick gear shifts.However, its higher purchase cost and concerns regarding long-term reliability have kept many buyers inclined towards the manual variants.

Used Tata Altroz Market Pricing

The Tata Altroz holds a strong resale value in the used car market due to its reputation for safety, sporty design, and feature-loaded variants. These factors make it an attractive choice for used car buyers seeking a reliable and affordable premium hatchback.

Average Used Selling Price

Key Takeaways

1. Manual transmission Tata Altroz models lead demand in the used market – In 2024, over 92% of used Altroz sales were manual, highlighting a strong preference for affordability and fuel efficiency.

1. Automatic transmission demand has increased gradually – Automatic Altroz models have seen a small but noticeable rise in demand, growing from 0.9% in 2022 when the variants were launched, to 7.8% in 2024.

1. Resale value for manual variants remains higher – Used manual transmission models hold their value better in the used car market due to stronger demand, lower maintenance costs as well as a lower starting price point.

1. CNG and diesel variants are only available with manual transmission – Buyers prioritising fuel efficiency and savings typically choose manual models, further driving their demand.

1. Urban buyers prefer automatics, but Altorz manual variants remain strong in demand – While automatic Altroz models are gaining traction in metro areas, the greater availability of manual transmission variants makes them the first choice for most used car buyers.

Conclusion

The Tata Altroz offers a wide range of variants with manual transmission options. From 5-speed gearboxes in petrol and diesel variants to a 6-speed unit in the Racer edition. These variants continue to dominate the used car market as buyers prioritise affordability, fuel efficiency, and lower maintenance costs. However, in urban areas where convenience is a priority, the DCA-equipped Altroz is becoming an attractive alternative and also being favoured with buyers looking for a sporty driving experience.

For budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient premium hatchback, the manual Tata Altroz remains the best option.The Altroz’s feature-rich cabin is a major draw, along with its 5-Star GNCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest and most affordable premium hatchbacks.