Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity in India, and with the arrival of affordable options like the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet, choosing the right EV has become a bit more challenging. Both of these vehicles offer unique features, but they cater to slightly different audiences. In this detailed comparison, we’ll examine their specifications, features, performance, and practical aspects to help you decide which one is the better buy for you.
Pricing and Variants
The MG Comet is India’s most affordable electric hatchback, priced between Rs 7.98 lakh and Rs 9.98 lakh. It comes with a single variant featuring a 17.3kWh battery.
The Tata Tiago EV, on the other hand, offers a wider range of options with two battery variants:
- MR version: 19.2kWh battery, priced between Rs 8.69 lakh and Rs 9.29 lakh.
- LR version: 24kWh battery, priced between Rs 10.24 lakh and Rs 11.54 lakh.
Here’s a quick look at the pricing comparison:
| Model | Battery Capacity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| MG Comet | 17.3kWh | Rs 7.98 lakh – Rs 9.98 lakh |
| Tata Tiago EV MR | 19.2kWh | Rs 8.69 lakh – Rs 9.29 lakh |
| Tata Tiago EV LR | 24kWh | Rs 10.24 lakh – Rs 11.54 lakh |
Design and Dimensions
MG Comet
The MG Comet features a unique and quirky design with an unorthodox monovolume, cube-like silhouette. It stands out with its characterful styling, chunks of chrome, and stunning LED light bars at the front and rear. It’s also India’s smallest passenger vehicle in length, making it extremely compact and urban-friendly.
Tata Tiago EV
In contrast, the Tata Tiago EV sports a more conventional two-box design, which, while handsome, appears dated when parked next to the radical MG Comet.
Dimensions Comparison:
| Dimension | MG Comet | Tata Tiago EV |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Shorter by 795mm | Longer |
| Width | Narrower by 172mm | Wider |
| Height | Taller by 104mm | Shorter |
| Wheelbase | Shorter by 390mm | Longer |
Interior and Comfort
MG Comet
Inside, the MG Comet boasts a futuristic, minimal, and pleasant design. The white color scheme, combined with a massive greenhouse area, enhances the sense of spaciousness. The twin 10.25-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system give it an upmarket feel. However, comfort isn’t its strongest suit, with limited seat adjustments and a low-set rear bench. Storage is also minimal, with no glovebox and a tiny boot.
Tata Tiago EV
The Tiago EV’s interiors are solidly built, with a focus on practicality. While the design may feel bland compared to the MG, it offers more comfort with better seats, more storage spaces, and a larger, more usable boot. The Tiago EV also benefits from features like automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, and an 8-speaker Harman sound system.
Interior Features Comparison:
| Feature | MG Comet | Tata Tiago EV |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch twin screens | 7-inch touchscreen |
| Sound System | 2 speakers | 8-speaker Harman system |
| Upholstery | Fabric | Leatherette |
| Boot Space | Tiny (small laptop bag) | 240 liters |
| Rear Doors | No | Yes |
Performance
MG Comet
The MG Comet is powered by a modest 42hp motor, delivering 110Nm of torque. It’s designed as an urban runabout, with three driving modes (Eco, Normal, and Sports) that offer varying performance levels. While it’s adequate for city driving, the Comet struggles when more performance is demanded.
Tata Tiago EV
The Tiago EV, in contrast, offers a more powerful 74hp motor with a responsive performance. It has two driving modes (City and Sport), with Sport mode unlocking the full potential of the motor. The Tiago EV is quicker in acceleration and has a higher top speed, making it a more versatile option for both city and occasional highway drives.
Performance Comparison:
| Aspect | MG Comet | Tata Tiago EV |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 42hp | 74hp |
| Torque | 110Nm | 114Nm |
| 0-60kph (Sports Mode) | Comparable | Quicker |
| Top Speed | 101kph | 120kph |
| Driving Modes | Eco, Normal, Sports | City, Sport |
Range and Charging
Range
In our instrumented tests, the MG Comet delivered an efficiency of 11.17km/kWh, resulting in a range of 193km on a full charge from its 17.3kWh battery. The Tata Tiago EV, with its 24kWh battery, achieved 7.77km/kWh, translating to a range of 187km.
Charging
The MG Comet supports a maximum charging speed of 3.3kW, taking about 3 hours to charge from 20-80% on an AC fast charger. The Tiago EV, however, supports DC fast charging, which can charge the battery from 20-80% in just one hour at a public fast charger.
Range and Charging Comparison:
| Aspect | MG Comet | Tata Tiago EV |
|---|---|---|
| Range | 193km | 187km |
| Charging Speed (AC) | 3.3kW | Supports DC fast charging |
| Charging Time (20-80%) | 3 hours (AC fast charger) | 1 hour (DC fast charger) |
Driving Experience
The MG Comet excels as a city car with its compact dimensions, upright driving position, and excellent frontal visibility. However, its ride is less refined, with more noticeable body roll and a busy ride quality over imperfect roads.
The Tata Tiago EV offers a sportier driving experience with tighter body control, larger tires for better road handling, and a more refined ride. It’s a better choice for those who value driving dynamics and comfort.
Verdict
The MG Comet is a charming, characterful micro-car with a futuristic design, making it an excellent choice as a secondary urban runabout. Its compact size and quirky style are sure to turn heads, and it offers a surprising amount of interior space for its size.
However, the Tata Tiago EV is fundamentally a better all-rounder. It drives better, is more comfortable, and offers more practicality, including the support for DC fast charging. For those looking for a primary EV that can handle both city and occasional highway drives, the Tiago EV is the more sensible choice.
All things considered, our vote goes to the Tata Tiago EV for its well-roundedness and practicality. But if you’re in the market for a unique and cool city car, the MG Comet is definitely worth a look.