Tata Nano: Cute in looks, big on performance

Almost a year after it was launched, the Tata Nano continues to turn heads. It is probably the cute personality of the small car, which is also the cheapest in the world as of now, that commands such attention. Almost in the same vein as a flashy Audi, or a BMW! 

A yellow Nano is probably the most attractive of the lot, but then that is my personal opinion. The other shades are bright too - bright enough to light up the cheerful looking small car.

Compact and tall, much like a thoroughly modern skyscraper with a glass facade in Mumbai or Delhi, the Tata Nano is structured on the same principle a Kei car.

Rather than grow horizontally, it aspires to grow vertically. That is, theoretically speaking. With the wheels located at the corners, the Nano succeeds in creating extraordinary space inside. Cuteness, beyond extraordinary space, is dialled by the expressive lamps up front. They are so good that the lack of a grille is forgotten.

The seemingly slab sides are marked by a distinct waistline and vents carved into the rear wheel arch. Located low down, they are functional and channel air to the engine.

Christmas tree tail lamps, which were first seen on the Indica, occupy a prominent place in the C-pillar. There's no tailgate, neither does the rear glass swing open, like that of the early Maruti 800s.