Tata Indica Flash adds value for those who don’t have cash to flash

Indica Flash limited edition

Tata has introduced a new limited edition variant of its Indica hatch as an added-value offering for those who don’t have cash to flash.

The new model, known as the Indica Flash, is based on the Indica LGi model, with distinguishing features added to its standard equipment.

This Tata Indica (an amalgam of India and car) is the original one – not the newer Vista.  It has been around for more than a decade (since 2004), which in city-car lifespan means it is being kept on life support, though Tata keeps selling these as basic transport.

Flash value
 
At the price of R 124 995 the Indica LGi Flash is only R 6 000 higher than the standard Indica LGi, while the value of the added features and equipment far exceeds this.
 
People will be able to identify this model externally by its bold black stripes running along the bottom of the doors incorporating a Flash logo, as well as the Flash logo on the corner of the bonnet.  The steel wheels have been replaced with alloy wheels, still of 13-inch size.

The scope of the upgrade comes once one sits inside the Indica Flash.  Firstly, there are leather seats with the Flash logo embroidered in the top of the front seats, while the steering wheel has a soft leather grip.  An audio system with USB and hands-free Bluetooth capabilities have also been added.

Above standard specification?

The Indica Flash is specified above the standard specification of its main competitors in the market, the company says.  Sure, no other car at this price has leather.  Erm, yes, overlooking the complete absence of basic safety features like ABS brakes or any airbag.  More like “below” standard specification.  Other entry-level cars under the R 130 000 new price line include the Chery QQ3 (too tiny, too tinny and just too old), Datsun Go, Kia Picanto 1.0 LS, Suzuki Celerio and the newly-launched Renault Kwid.

“We are confident that the Indica Flash special edition is going to be a success as it is a true value-for-money offering aimed at first-time buyers and those with a limited budget,” said Kyri Michael, the CEO of Accordian Investments which markets and distributes Tata passenger cars and light commercial vehicles in South Africa.