The now famous 1.3 liter Fiat diesel runs in a higher state of tune to generate 89 BHP (@ 4000 rpm) and 200 NM of torque (@ 1750 – 3000 rpm). Yes, this is the Fiat Linea spec engine. A key contributor to the extra power is a large variable geometry turbocharger. Owners report that the engine’s midrange is especially strong, though outright acceleration is average at best (0 – 100 in 15-odd seconds). Also, turbo lag is on the higher side and negatively affects urban drivability.
It definitely takes a while to get used to turbo-lag. This engine comes into its element past 1800 rpm. The diesel’s useful power band is between 2,000 and 4,100 rpm, although the engine can cross the 5,000 rpm mark for those times when you need to overtake a truck in the same gear. The diesel Manza can travel comfortably on the motorway at 140 km/h, after which progress is very slow. The fuel efficiency and rugged nature of the diesel kept all of our reviewers happy. The 1.4 liter DOHC petrol is rated at 89 BHP (@ 6000 rpm) and 116 NM of torque (@ 4750 rpm).
Owners report that the gas engine must run to run. Driveability is good around town, with 2nd gear easily going from 10kph to 80kph. The petrol is also smooth and revs freely to its 6,600rpm redline. Some of our reviewers quite liked the engine note at high revs (classic Italian trait), however the noise gets unduly loud at speed and regular (non-enthusiast) joes will find it annoying. The absolute performance is again strictly adequate. NVH levels with either engine are acceptable while underway; however, poor cabin insulation shows when the engines are made to work hard. The Fiat C549 gearbox offers the best gear shift quality seen in a Tata to date.
It has medium-length shifting, some notches are obvious, but the overall shifting action is decent (although not a patch on Dzire’s shift quality). All of our reviewers spoke highly of the Manza’s urban ride quality. The suspension is perfectly tuned and keeps occupants comfortable in the city. Comfort levels remain excellent on flat motorways or even rough stretches of road. However, our reviewers complained about excessive vertical movement of the rear suspension, when the Manza is driven fast over uneven patches of road.
The Manza has neutral handling characteristics. Owners recommend a calm driving style as it’s not really designed for enthusiasts. Tight corners taken at speed will see the Manza understeer generously. Drive conservatively and grip levels remain decent. High-speed stability is par for the course, though the steering seems vague and has a tendency to wander off the highway. The turning radius is a reasonable 5.1 meters (Dzire = 4.7 and Linea = 5.5). In a first for a Tata car, the brakes have received “excellent” ratings. The ABS-equipped anchors do their job well and keep the Tata’s composure even under emergency braking conditions.