How to Buy a Used Tata Tiago?

The Tata Tiago has earned a strong reputation in India’s hatchback market for its solid build, safety features, and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for a city-friendly second car, the Tiago offers dependable performance at an affordable price.

A used Tata Tiago is a sensible pick for those seeking value without compromising on quality. With multiple variants and fuel options, it fits a wide range of needs, from daily commutes to family use.

This guide will help you understand the best model year to buy, the right variant, ownership costs, and smart upgrades, so you can make a well-informed purchase.

Best Age of Used Tata Tiago to Buy

When buying a used Tata Tiago, depreciation plays a major role in determining value. Like most hatchbacks, the Tiago sees its steepest depreciation in the first 3 years. On average, it loses around 15-20% of its value in the first year, followed by another 10-12% annually for the next two years.

Let’s take the example of a Tata Tiago XT (Petrol), which had an ex-showroom price of around ₹6 lakh in 2021. By mid-2024, the same model typically sells in the used market for about ₹4.2-4.5 lakh, depending on condition and mileage. That’s roughly a 25-30% drop, offering solid value to a second-hand buyer.

Ideal Buying Window

The 3-5 year mark is generally the sweet spot for buying a used Tiago. Cars in this age range:

• Have already undergone the sharpest depreciation
• Often come with a full-service history
• Still have several years of efficient performance left

Avoid models older than 7 years unless they have been very well maintained, as component wear and fuel efficiency may begin to decline after that.

Best Used Tata Tiago Variant to Buy

Tata has offered the Tiago in multiple variants over the years, XE, XM, XT, XZ, and XZ+, each with increasing levels of features. While the base XE covers the essentials, it misses out on comfort and convenience features that most buyers expect today. At the other end, the XZ+ offers segment-best features but also commands a higher resale price.

Value-for-Money Pick: Tata Tiago XZ or XT (Petrol)

If you’re looking for the best balance of features and price, the Tiago XT or XZ petrol variants are often the smartest buys. Here’s why:

• Tiago XT comes with all essential features: power windows, remote central locking, 2-DIN infotainment, and electrically adjustable ORVMs.
• Tiago XZ adds safety features like dual airbags, rear parking sensors, 8-speaker Harman audio system, and rear wiper/defogger, ideal for long-term usability.
• Both these variants offer good resale value, widespread availability in the used market, and a strong feature set without significantly inflating the budget.

Avoid the base XE unless you’re looking strictly for an entry-level, no-frills option.

Used Tata Tiago Petrol vs Used Tata Tiago CNG

The Tata Tiago is available in Petrol and CNG variants, both of which appeal to different types of used car buyers.

Used Tata Tiago Petrol

The petrol variant is powered by a 1.2L Revotron engine producing 86 PS and 113 Nm. It offers:

• Better performance and driveability, especially on highways
• Option of AMT transmission, making it more convenient for city use
• Widespread availability in the used market, including higher trims like XZ and XZ+

Petrol variants are best suited for users who drive less than 1,000 km per month or want a mix of performance and comfort.

Used Tata Tiago CNG

Tata launched the factory-fitted Tiago iCNG in 2022. It uses the same 1.2L engine, tuned for CNG use, and produces slightly lower power output (around 73 PS).

• Higher fuel economy, with running costs nearly 30-40% lower than petrol
• Ideal for city use, cab services, or those with high monthly usage
• However, the boot space is compromised due to the CNG tank. Also, CNG variants are only available in manual transmission

Choose a used petrol Tiago for better performance, AMT option, and comfortable long drives. Pick a used CNG Tiago if you want low running costs and mainly drive in the city.

Used Tata Tiago Ownership Calculator

When buying a used car, knowing the ownership costs beyond the purchase price helps you budget better. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses over five years for a used Tata Tiago:

Annual Service & Maintenance

• Tata recommends servicing the Tiago every 15,000 km or once a year.
• Average annual service cost is between ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 depending on the variant and parts replaced.
• Over five years, total maintenance cost can range between ₹21,000 to ₹26,000.

Tyre Replacement

• The Tiago comes with 175/65 R14 or 175/60 R15 tyres, depending on the variant.
• Replacement cost per tyre ranges from ₹3,500 to ₹8,500.
• A full set of four tyres will cost anywhere between ₹14,000 to ₹34,000.

Battery & Other Replacements

• Battery usually needs replacement once every 4-5 years and costs around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000.
  
• Other components like brake pads, belts, air filters, and fluids may require replacement during routine servicing, costing ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per year.

Fuel Costs Over Five Years

Assuming an average annual running of 10,000 km:

• Petrol Variant (approx. 15 km/l)
  Estimated total fuel cost: ₹3.5 lakh
  
• CNG Variant (approx. 22 km/kg)
  Estimated total fuel cost: ₹2.05 lakh
  

Summary Table

Upgrades for Used Tata Tiago

While the Tata Tiago offers solid features out of the box, a few smart upgrades can improve comfort, aesthetics, and overall usability, especially in older variants.

Infotainment & Connectivity

If you’re buying a mid-level or base variant, you might want to upgrade the factory audio unit to a touchscreen system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Many aftermarket infotainment systems also come with reverse camera support, which adds both convenience and safety.

Tyre Upgrade

Stock tyres in lower variants may feel underwhelming on bad roads. Upgrading to a better set of tyres with improved grip and sidewall strength (such as upsizing from 175/65 R14 to 185/60 R14) can enhance ride quality and cornering confidence.

Interior Additions

Older used models may show wear on seat fabrics and steering wraps. Investing in:

• Premium seat covers
• Leatherette steering covers
• 3D floor mats

can refresh the cabin’s look and make it more comfortable.

Lighting Enhancement

The standard halogen headlamps are functional, but an upgrade to LED or projector units can offer better night visibility. Just ensure any upgrade follows local RTO regulations.

Safety Accessories

If your variant lacks rear parking sensors or a rearview camera, installing these aftermarket accessories can improve parking ease. You can also consider adding blind spot mirrors or a basic dashcam for added security.

Summary

The used Tata Tiago stands out as a well-rounded choice in the pre-owned hatchback segment, offering a smart mix of safety, practicality, and affordability. It’s especially appealing for first-time buyers and city commuters. The 3-5-year-old models provide the best value, as they’ve already undergone the steepest depreciation. Among the available trims, XT and XZ variants strike the ideal balance between features and price in the used car market.

For smoother driveability and the option of AMT, the petrol version is a great pick, while the CNG variant is better suited for those seeking low running costs. Ownership costs are generally manageable, particularly if the car has been well-maintained with regular servicing. With a few thoughtful upgrades, like improved infotainment or new tyres—you can make your used Tiago feel even more premium. Overall, it’s a practical and reliable investment with efficient performance and strong safety credentials.

FAQs About Used Tata Tiago