Tata's R Dube congratulated on Indica by Autocar's P Fuller.

The Tata Indica created a wave of expectation when it was launched at the Auto Expo four years ago. Tata Engineering promised to revolutionise the small car and customers couldn’t wait to get their hands on one.

At first, though, the Indica was a disappointment. It looked great and had a tremendous amount of space, but the package as a whole left much to be desired. The suspension system was not fully developed and the engine and gearbox felt crude at best.

Worst of all, Indica owners were confronted by a number of problems both minor and serious. Failures of engine belts, engine mountings, wheel alignment and gear engagement were just some of the problems owners faced.

So Tata engineers listened to the feedback and addressed the problems with a new version of the Indica, V2.

“It was a monumental task but Tata have managed to put the Indica on the right track” - Manvendra Singh

First, the spring damper rates were tuned which, coupled with wider tyres, transformed the suspension. The V2 as a result rides well, smothering bumps more successfully and smoothing out ruts. Second came quality, dramatically improved by Tata in most areas. Only the gear selection mechanism remains a serious problem, which although improved, is still only tolerable.

The Indica today provides space, comfort, economy and looks at a fantastic price. It’s also more reliable, recording a significant 117 less problems per 100 vehicles (PP100v) and taking the award for this year’s most improved car (only Maruti’s Omni improved more) in the JD Power Initial Quality study - a factor that has helped Tata grow sales significantly.

It’s certainly a long way from the car that was launched in 1999. Or even the 2000 model. Though you could say it left itself the most scope for improvement.