The Tata Altroz has carved a significant niche in the Indian premium hatchback market. Known for its striking “Impact 2.0” design and, crucially, its 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, it’s a solid performer.
However, even the safest car on the road relies entirely on four patches of rubber to keep it planted. Choosing the correct tyre size for your Tata Altroz isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a critical factor governing fuel efficiency, ride comfort, speedometer accuracy, and overall safety.
Whether you are looking to replace worn-out treads or just want to confirm the specs for your specific variant, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Tata Altroz tyre size.
The Quick Answer: Tata Altroz Tyre Sizes by Variant
Tata Motors equips the Altroz with two distinct tyre sizes depending on the trim level. The lower to mid-spec variants come optimized for fuel efficiency and comfort on smaller steel wheels, while the top-end variants feature larger alloy wheels for better handling and stance.
Here is the definitive breakdown:
| Tata Altroz Variant(s) | Wheel Type | Tyre Size Specification |
| XE, XM, XM+, XT | 14-inch Steel Wheels | 165/80 R14 |
| XZ, XZ+, XZ+ O (Inc. Dark & Racer Editions) | 16-inch Laser-Cut Alloy Wheels | 195/55 R16 |
Understanding the Tyre Specs: Decoding the Sidewall
When you see numbers like “195/55 R16” on your tyre sidewall, it can look like a secret code. Knowing what these mean is crucial when shopping for replacements so you don’t buy the wrong product.
Let’s break down the top-spec size: 195/55 R16
- 195 (Width): This is the width of the tyre in millimeters (mm) measured from sidewall to sidewall. The wider the tyre, the more grip you generally have.
- 55 (Aspect Ratio): This is the height of the tyre’s sidewall, expressed as a percentage of the width. Here, the sidewall height is 55% of 195mm. A lower number means a shorter, sportier sidewall (low profile).
- R (Construction): This stands for “Radial,” which is the standard construction for almost all modern passenger car tyres.
- 16 (Rim Diameter): This is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches that the tyre is designed to fit. You cannot fit an R16 tyre on an R14 rim.
The Critical Aspect: Tata Altroz Tyre Pressure
Having the correct tyre size is useless if the tyre pressure is incorrect. Under-inflated tyres overheat and wear out the edges quickly, increasing fuel consumption. Over-inflated tyres result in a bouncy, harsh ride and wear out the center of the tread.
For the Tata Altroz, the recommended tyre pressure varies slightly based on the load (number of passengers and luggage).
Where to find the exact pressure:
Always refer to the tyre placard located on the driver’s side door jamb (B-pillar). This sticker is the ultimate authority for your specific car.
- General Recommendation (R14 & R16): Typically, for standard city driving with 1-3 occupants, Tata recommends 32 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) for all four tyres. Full loads may require higher pressure in the rear tyres.
When Should You Replace Your Altroz Tyres?
Tyres are wear-and-tear items. Driving on bald tyres drastically increases stopping distances, especially on wet Indian roads during the monsoon.
You need to replace your tyres if:
- The Tread Wear Indicator (TWI) is visible: Look for small rubber bars located in the grooves of the main tread. When the tread wears down to the level of these bars (1.6mm remaining depth), the tyre is legally and functionally unsafe.
- Age: Even with good tread, tyres degrade over time due to UV exposure and oxidation. If your tyres are more than 5 to 6 years old, they should be inspected by a professional and likely replaced, regardless of mileage.
- Damage: Any visible bulges, deep cuts on the sidewall, or uneven wear patterns indicate immediate replacement is needed.
Expert Recommendations for Replacement Tyres
When buying new tyres for your Altroz, stick to the stock size. You generally have two paths depending on your budget and priorities:
For the 165/80 R14 (XE, XM, XT Variants)
- Focus: These variants prioritize economy. Look for durable tyres that offer high mileage and can handle rough city roads.
- Top Picks:
- MRF ZVTS: The classic Indian choice. extremely durable, though slightly noisy.
- Apollo Amazer 4G Life: Excellent longevity and good value for money.
- Bridgestone B290: A great all-rounder offering a balance of comfort and durability.
For the 195/55 R16 (XZ, XZ+ Variants)
- Focus: These are performance and comfort-oriented. You want a tyre that complements the Altroz’s excellent chassis dynamics and keeps road noise down.
- Top Picks:
- Michelin Primacy 4ST: The gold standard for silence and comfort. Excellent wet grip. (Premium pricing).
- Continental UltraContact UC6: Fantastic wet braking performance and very quiet.
- Yokohama BluEarth AE51: A great mix of fuel efficiency (low rolling resistance) and grip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I upsize the tyres on my Tata Altroz XE to the XZ’s 16-inch alloys?
A: Technically, yes. Many owners do this for better looks. However, you must buy new 16-inch alloy wheels and 195/55 R16 tyres. Be aware that upgrading to significantly wider or larger tyres than stock can sometimes void suspension warranties and may result in a slightly stiffer ride and lower fuel economy.
Q: Do I need to change all four tyres at once?
A: Ideally, yes. Changing all four ensures uniform grip and handling. If you cannot afford four, you must change them in axle pairs (both front two or both rear two). Never mix different tyre brands or tread patterns on the same axle.
Q: Is wheel alignment and balancing necessary after changing tyres?
A: Absolutely yes. Wheel balancing ensures the tyre spins without vibrating at high speeds. Wheel alignment ensures the tyres are angled correctly relative to the road and each other. Skipping this will lead to rapid, uneven tyre wear and the car pulling to one side.
Final Thoughts
Your Tata Altroz is a fantastic machine, but it only performs as well as its tyres allow. By sticking to the correct Tata Altroz tyre size, maintaining proper pressure, and choosing quality replacements, you ensure that every drive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.