2024 Tata Punch EV vs Citroen eC3: EVs Compared

Tata Motors recently launched the Punch EV, expanding its EV portfolio to four models, after the Tiago EV, Tigor EV, and Nexon EV. Apart from being an alternative to its entry-level siblings, the Punch EV primarily rivals the eC3, which has been in our market for quite some time now. If you are considering either of these options, we offer you a detailed comparison of both EVs, including their design, features, and specifications. Take a look.

Design

While both cars might be related to their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, one wouldn't expect significant design changes. However, this is not the case, particularly with the Punch EV.

The Punch EV features an updated design and borrows some design cues from its larger sibling, the Nexon EV. The front showcases connected LED DRLs, a closed-off grille housing the charging port, and a revised bumper that distinguishes it from the ICE-powered Punch. It also gets a new alloy wheel design, while the rear maintains similarity with the regular Punch. But the point is it manages to distinguish itself clearly from the petrol model. 

That’s not the case with the Citroen eC3, which is hard to distinguish from the C3, apart from the ‘e’ badging on it. The design bits are identical to the ICE model and while that isn’t a bad thing, you’d have to rely on the green number plates to say this is an electric car. That said, it does have bright colour options to lift things up.

Interior

Inside, the eC3 features a simpler cabin with old-school rotary dials for the AC and chunkier AC vents. The dotted pattern and contrast colour elements on the dashboard provide a unique look. The eC3 also comes with fabric seat upholstery as opposed to leatherette seats in the Punch EV.

In contrast, the Punch EV gets a modern-looking cabin with dual 10.25-inch screens for the infotainment system and digital driver’s display. Adding to the minimalism, it gets a touch-based climate control system and a rotary gear selector with an integrated display for drive modes. You also get to see a two-spoke steering wheel with illuminated Tata logo, reminiscent of models like the 2023 Nexon EV.

Features

Hands down, it’s clear the Tata Punch beats the Citroen eC3 in the features department with amenities like ventilated front seats, connected car tech, and a 360-degree camera. In contrast, the eC3 offers only the essentials and lacks many niceties.

Powertrain

In the powertrain department too, the Tata Punch EV outperforms the Citroen eC3 regardless of the variant you choose. Thanks to a larger battery pack size, the eC3 claims a slightly higher range compared to the Punch EV Standard Range. But the Punch EV’s base powertrain is more powerful than that of the Citroen. 

And if you opt for the Punch EV in the Long Range variant, it will offer you better specs in terms of both power and battery pack size, surpassing those of the Citroen.

Price

Lastly, the Punch EV is priced Rs 62,000 lower than the eC3’s entry-level model. While the top-spec variants of the eC3 are significantly more affordable than the Punch EV, a point to note here is that the eC3 is available only with a single battery pack variant, whereas the Punch EV gets the option of a larger battery pack and more powerful e-motor.

Conclusion

In summary, the Punch EV stands out as the superior option in every aspect. It boasts a more modern design, an upmarket interior, and a feature-rich cabin compared to the eC3. And you also get two powertrain options to choose from, offering you more choice.