How to Increase Mileage of Tiago?

Whether you own a petrol, CNG, or EV variant, Tiago mileage is one of the most talked-about aspects of Tata’s entry-level hatchback. On paper, it delivers up to 19.01 kmpl on petrol, 26.49 km/kg with CNG and over 300 km of range with the EV. But real-world results depend on how and where you drive. From packed city roads to long highway hauls, there are several ways to boost fuel efficiency if you know what influences it and how to tweak your habits to get better mileage. This blog breaks down all the tips and tricks to help you increase your Tiago’s mileage in everyday use.

ARAI-Certified Tiago Mileage: Petrol & EV

Here’s a quick look at the official mileage figures as per variant and fuel type:

Keep in mind that these figures are tested in lab-based simulated conditions and real-world figures will always be lower, especially in city driving or with AC on full blast. So, what do Tiago owners actually get when driving? 

Tiago City Mileage

City traffic involves constant stopping, shifting gears, stop-and-go crawls and running the AC, all of which are known to affect Tiago mileage. Here is how much mileage you can realistically expect in city driving conditions: 

• Tiago Petrol Manual: 13–15 kmpl
• Tiago Petrol AMT: 12–14 kmpl
• Tiago CNG: 20–23 km/kg
• Tiago EV (19.2 kWh): 170–210 km per charge
• Tiago EV (24 kWh): 200–240 km per charge

These estimates are calculated on average city conditions, moderate AC use, frequent stops, and a light foot. Those figures can be dragged further down by aggressive driving or overloading of car.

Factors Affecting Tiago City Mileage

These factors have the biggest impact on your Tiago mileage when you spend most of the time in stop-go traffic, particularly in city driving:

1. Traffic Density

There are a lot of stops and starts, low crawling speeds, and traffic, which results in increased fuel consumption. The EV version also has a shorter range when idling or when there is excessive regen braking in stop-and-go traffic.

2. AC Usage

Use of AC, particularly at low driving speeds, places a load on the engine. This is the case with both petrol and CNG models. Even in EVs, when the climate control is activated, it has a major impact on the real-world range.

3. Driving Habits

Jerky acceleration, hard braking, or riding the clutch (in the manual version) can reduce your city mileage. Smooth throttle inputs go a long way in getting more kilometres per litre.

4. Vehicle Maintenance

The fuel combustion efficiency may be affected by clogged air filters, worn spark plugs, or obsolete engine oil. In the case of the Tiago EV, software updates and tyre condition matter more.

5. Tyre Pressure

When your tyres are underinflated, there is more rolling resistance. This causes the engine (or electric motor) to work harder at the expense of fuel economy or battery range.

6. EV-Specific: Over-Regeneration

In the Tiago EV, when regeneration is set to maximum in urban use, it can cause the car to brake harshly, making driving less stable and efficient, particularly for first-time EV users.

Improving Tiago City Mileage

Assuming that your Tiago spends most of its days in the slow-crawling city traffic, here are some particular measures you can take to get the most out of every drop of fuel (or every battery charge).

1. Drive in Eco Mode

Both petrol and EV models have Eco driving modes, which optimise throttle response and power delivery to minimise fuel consumption, which is best suited to slow-traffic conditions.

2. Don’t Overuse the AC

Minimize AC use to save fuel. In the Tiago EV, pre-cool the cabin even when it is still charging so that you can save charge on-the-go.

3. Stick to Scheduled Servicing

Make sure that the air filters, spark plugs, engine oil, and brake pads are changed regularly. In the case of the Tiago EV, you should adhere to the service reminders provided by Tata to update the firmware and check battery health.

4. Keep Throttle Inputs Gentle

Never drive too fast or stop too suddenly. Avoid racing between signals or sudden clutch releases. EV users should also make sure that they are not heavy on the throttle so that the energy is not wasted.

5. Keep the Engine Warm in Winter

In colder areas, it is advisable to idle the petrol or CNG Tiago engine by running for one minute before moving off, as this makes the engine more stable and leads to more consistent mileage. In the case of EVs, pre-conditioning should be scheduled.

6. Lighten the Load

Excessive baggage or accessories, such as heavy roof racks, can make the car heavy, which affects the mileage. Keep it light and efficient, which is even more crucial for the Tiago EV to maintain range.

Tiago Highway Mileage

Out on smooth highways with minimal gear changes and a steady cruise between 80–90 kmph, the Tiago mileage gets a healthy bump. Here’s what owners usually report:

• Tiago Petrol Manual: 18–20 kmpl
• Tiago Petrol AMT: 17–19 kmpl
• Tiago CNG: 25–27 km/kg
• Tiago EV (19.2 kWh): 210–230 km per charge
• Tiago EV (24 kWh): 250–280 km per charge

Planning ahead, using cruise control (where available), and avoiding unnecessary acceleration can help you squeeze out a few extra kilometres, especially on EV variants.

Factors That Impact Tiago Highway Mileage

The Tiago mileage figures on highways may look impressive on paper, but they depend on how and where you drive. Here are some key factors that can lower these numbers:

1. Engine Size vs Load

The Tiago’s 1.2L engine is peppy but not built for high-speed, high-load runs. If you're driving with full passengers or luggage, expect a drop in efficiency, especially uphill or on gradients.

2. Driving Over 90 km/h

This little hatch loves cruising around 70–85 km/h. Push it above 100 km/h and you’ll see the mileage dip, especially in the petrol AMT and CNG variants.

3. Tyre Pressure and Alignment

Many Tiago users overlook this before a road trip. Incorrect pressure or misalignment increases rolling resistance, which hits highway mileage hard, even on EV variants.

4. AC Efficiency on Long Drives

The petrol and CNG Tiagos run their AC from the engine load. On hot days with full blower use, mileage can go down by 1–1.5 kmpl. For EVs, AC usage drains the battery faster on highways since regen braking is minimal.

Improving Tiago Highway Mileage

Long drives can help your Tiago mileage shine, but only if you drive smart. Here’s what to keep in mind when you hit the open road:

1. Maintain a Steady Speed

Avoid sudden acceleration or heavy braking. Keeping a constant cruising speed between 80-90 kmph helps petrol and CNG models perform optimally. The EV variant, too, delivers better range under steady loads.

2. Use Higher Gears

In the manual Tiago, shift to 4th or 5th gear at the earliest safe RPMs. Lower revs mean less fuel burnt. On the AMT or EV, use cruise control (if available) on expressways.

3. Tyre Check Before Trips

Ensure the tyres are inflated to the recommended PSI. On highways, underinflated tyres cause extra drag, which can seriously hurt efficiency and even risk safety.

4. Avoid Roof Racks on Highways

Driving with a loaded roof rack or carrier on highways can increase wind resistance. Remove it unless absolutely necessary and you’ll be surprised at the mileage boost.

5. Plan Charging or Refuelling Stops Smartly

For CNG users, plan your pump stops in advance as CNG availability may be limited. Tiago EV drivers should always start long trips with a full charge and know where fast chargers can be found en route.

Summary

If you’ve been wondering how to get better Tiago mileage out of your hatchback, it is just a matter of smooth driving, proper maintenance, and adapting to the driving conditions, whether in the city or highways. Small changes, such as using Eco Mode, tyre pressure checks, and EV charging stop planning, can make a big difference in fuel savings or range.

Still exploring your options? You can also browse used Tiago cars across fuel types on CARS24 and find one that best matches your driving needs and mileage expectations.