Photos by Ulysses Ang

Whenever you step out of the Tata Manza, it’s inevitable to be the butt of Indian jokes. A couple of times, I was quizzed whether it was curry-powered or at least ask me how it drives with whatever passes for an Indian accent. Clearly, it’s all part of the birthing pains for Tata, being the pioneering Indian car brand in the country. You don’t have to look far to see that a car buyer’s bias is still there: some will say Korean cars are as delectable on the palette as kimchee or that all Chinese cars are built by people named Cheech or Chong. As a car guy, I can’t have that bias. I’ve got to respect cars based on individual merit and strength. So when the Tata Manza Aura arrived at my doorstep, I won’t care where it’s from. I only mind its design and engineering. And you know what? It’s actually a respectable little car.

Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, the exclusive distributor of Tata vehicles in the country recently launched not one, not two, but seven heavy-duty eco-diesel vehicles. These new additions to the Tata line-up come in many forms from diesel-fed passenger cars to pick-ups to mini trucks.

Car buyers now have more choices with the arrival of the new Tata Manza Aura and Vista Ignis. Launched recently by the Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., the official and exclusive distributor of Tata vehicles in the Philippines at their new Cainta showroom along Ortigas Avenue Extension, the Manza Aura and Vista Ignis are powered by the highly efficient and refined Quadrajet diesel engine which promises high fuel efficiency. At the same time, these models were designed with good passenger comfort and worry-free ownership in mind.

Taking forward its luxurious lineage, the new Manza INI sets a new benchmark for sedan buyers in the mid-sized car segment with its plush interiors and state-of-the-art technology features. The car's contemporary stance is as easy on the eyes as it is dominant on the roads.