Tata Nexon Review – Why It\’s the Safest and Most Stylish Indian SUV

Brief history of Tata Motors

Tata Motors, India\’s leading automobile manufacturer, launched the Tata Nexon compact SUV in late 2017. Tata has produced cars in India since 1954, starting with commercial vehicles and eventually expanding into passenger cars. The launch of the Indica in 1998 marked Tata\’s foray into the passenger vehicle segment. Over the years, Tata has introduced several popular car models including the Tiago, Tigor, Hexa, and Harrier. The Nexon is Tata\’s latest addition targeting the fast-growing compact SUV segment in India.

Key features of the Tata Nexon

The Nexon comes loaded with many segment-first features making it a tech-laden SUV. It offers a touchscreen infotainment system by Harman with Android Auto integration. For safety, the Nexon has dual airbags and ABS (anti-lock braking system) as standard across all variants. It also has electronic stability control, corner stability control, and roll-over mitigation.

Other notable features include a multi-drive mode selector, rear parking sensors, an electric sunroof, automatic climate control, and cruise control. The tall stance of the Nexon provides great visibility and its 350-liter boot space is one the largest in its class.

Engine and transmission options

Tata offers the Nexon with both petrol and diesel engine options. The 1.2 liter turbocharged Revotron petrol engine produces 115 hp power and 170 Nm torque. The 1.5 liter turbocharged Revotorq diesel motor generates 110 hp power and 260 Nm torque.

Both engines come mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed AMT (automated manual transmission). The AMT gearbox brings automatic convenience without compromising fuel efficiency.

Specification	Petrol	Diesel
Engine	1.2L Turbocharged Revotron	1.5L Turbocharged Revotorq
Power	115hp @ 5000 rpm	110hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque	170 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm	260 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
Transmission	6-speed MT/AMT	6-speed MT/AMT
Mileage	17-18kmpl (MT), 16-17kmpl (AMT)	19-21kmpl (MT), 19-20kmpl (AMT)
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD
Brakes	Disc (Front), Drum (Rear)	Disc (Front), Drum (Rear)
Tyre Size	205/60 R16	205/60 R16
Seating Capacity	5 seater	5 seater
Boot Space	350 liters	350 liters
Fuel Tank	44 liters	44 liters
Length	3994 mm	3994 mm
Width	1811 mm	1811 mm
Height	1607 mm	1607 mm
Wheelbase	2498 mm	2498 mm
Ground Clearance	209 mm	209 mm

Safety and technology

Safety has been the key focus area for Tata Motors while developing the Nexon. It has a solid high strength steel body shell that provides excellent impact protection.

The Tata Nexon scored a full five stars in crash tests conducted by Global NCAP, making it the safest Indian car. It comes equipped with two airbags, ABS, EBD, corner stability control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard across the range.

Higher variants also feature an electronic stability program, roll-over mitigation, hill hold control, and hill descent control. There are 3D maps by MapmyIndia that utilize the in-dash touchscreen. Other hi-tech features include a fully digital instrument cluster and wearable smart key.

Variants and prices

The Tata Nexon is available in four broad trim levels – XE, XM, XT, and XZ+. There is a further distinction between manual and AMT variants.

The petrol Nexon is priced between Rs. 7.54 – 12.79 lakh while the diesel ranges from Rs. 8.69 – 14.60 lakh (ex-showroom). XE and XM are the affordable variants focused on value, XT is the mid-spec variant and XZ+ is the fully-loaded top model. There are a total of 20 variants to choose from to suit diverse budgets.

Exterior design and styling

The Tata Nexon features a bold and muscular exterior design that sets it apart from other compact SUVs. It has a wide stance with flared wheel arches and a clamshell bonnet that give it an athletic look.

The front is highlighted by the Tata signature grille, sleek headlamps, and LED daytime running lights. The side profile gets a contrasting color roof, heavy creases, and 16-inch wheels. Split tail lamps with LED light guides dominate the rear.

With its coupe-like sloping roofline, raised ground clearance of 209mm, and squared-off wheel arches, the Nexon has a very distinct road presence. The electric sunroof and dual-tone color options further enhance its style quotient.

Interior comfort and convenience

The Tata Nexon prioritizes comfort and convenience with its smartly designed interior layout. The Dashboard gets a floating-type 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster.

The steering wheel can be adjusted for rake and equipped with controls for audio, phone, and MID. Automatic climate control works well to cool the cabin quickly. Front seats have extendable armrests while rear seats get 60:40 split and slide function.

350 liters of boot space can be extended to 690 liters by folding the rear seats. The electric sunroof makes the cabin feel roomy and airy. Multiple storage spaces, rear AC vents, keyless entry, and cruise control add further convenience.

Performance and handling

The Tata Nexon offers an enjoyable driving experience thanks to its well-tuned suspension, steering, and engines. The petrol motor has good low-end grunt while the diesel impresses with its strong mid-range punch and minimal turbo lag.

Both engines feel responsive and deliver smooth linear power delivery. The AMT gearbox may have some jerks during aggressive throttle inputs but works well for relaxed driving. The steering feels direct and weighs up nicely at high speeds. Ride quality manages to strike a fine balance between comfort and stability.

The Nexon tackles broken roads and undulations competently. It handles winding roads confidently with minimal body roll. High-speed stability is also impressive considering its height.

Fuel efficiency

Fuel efficiency is one of the high points of the Nexon. The petrol manual delivers 17-18 kmpl in city usage while the AMT version returns 16-17 kmpl. On highway runs, the petrol Nexon gives 19-21 kmpl mileage.

The Diesel Nexon with manual transmission gives 19-21 kmpl mileage in city driving conditions. Out on the highways, the diesel engine can deliver up to 23 kmpl. With so much performance on tap, the fuel efficiency of both petrol and diesel Nexons is quite outstanding.

Awards and accolades

The Tata Nexon has received wide critical acclaim winning many prestigious automotive awards. It received the 2017 Indian Car of the Year Award from a jury of auto journalists.

Other notable awards won by the Nexon include sub-compact SUV of the Year from BBC Top Gear, Viewer\’s Choice SUV of the Year at Autocar Awards 2018, and Compact SUV of the Year at Vijay Awards 2018.

Global NCAP gave the Nexon a 5-star rating making it the safest car made in India. Its popularity and success highlight the global safety and quality standards met by Tata Motors.

Sales performance and popularity

The Nexon has been a runaway success for Tata Motors since its launch. It has consistently ranked among the top 10 best-selling SUVs with monthly sales crossing the 4,000 unit mark.

In 2022, Tata sold over 48,000 units of the Nexon recording 22% growth over 2021. Its sales performance has exceeded the established Vitara Brezza, Venue, and Sonet in recent times.

The combination of style, safety, performance, features, and value pricing has struck a chord with buyers making the Nexon among the most popular compact SUVs in India.

Competitors and comparison

The Tata Nexon competes with similar compact SUVs like Maruti Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Ford EcoSport, Mahindra XUV300, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite. The Brezza and Venue hold the maximum market share in this segment.

Compared to rivals, the Nexon has the advantage of being the safest with a 5-star GNCAP rating, feature-loaded equipment, a powerful diesel engine, and attractive pricing. While some competitors score on high fuel efficiency, Tata has mostly matched them while offering a superior overall package.

The Nexon evens out or surpasses its competition on most factors establishing itself as one of the strongest contenders in the compact SUV space.

Future plans and outlook

Going forward Tata Motors plans to launch a turbo-petrol variant, an automatic transmission option for diesel, and an extended warranty of up to 5 years on the Nexon. An electric Nexon EV is also slated for launch in 2023.

Tata will continue enhancing the technology and connected features. More variant and color options are expected to attract young buyers. The company aims to grow Nexon\’s sales to 60,000 units in 2023 by entering new markets internationally.

Conclusion

The Tata Nexon has been nothing short of a game-changer for Tata Motors. It has given the Indian automaker a credible challenger to take on segment leaders like Maruti Brezza and Hyundai Venue.

With its head-turning looks, feature-loaded interior, excellent safety rating, powerful engines, and value pricing – the Nexon checks most boxes for buyers. Its rising popularity over the last 5 years points to a car that delivers substance along with style. For an aspirational compact SUV with a premium feel, the Nexon makes a compelling choice.

FAQs

Q1. What is the mileage of Tata Nexon petrol and diesel?

The Nexon petrol delivers a mileage of 17-18 kmpl in cities and 19-21 kmpl on highways. The Nexon diesel offers 19-21 kmpl mileage in cities and 22-23 kmpl on highways.

Q2. What are the engine specifications of Tata Nexon?

The Nexon comes with a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine making 108 hp, 170 Nm and a 1.5-liter turbo-diesel motor generating 108 hp, 260 Nm. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and AMT auto gearbox.

Q3. Is Tata Nexon a 5-seater or 7-seater?

The Nexon is a 5-seater SUV with bench seating for 3 passengers in the rear and 2 seats in front. It is not available in a 7-seater configuration.

Q4. What are the top variants of Nexon?

The XZ+ and XZA+ are the top-end fully-loaded variants of the Nexon. They come equipped with a sunroof, touchscreen infotainment, and multiple other premium features.

Q5. How much does the Tata Nexon cost?

The Nexon is priced between Rs. 7.54 – 14.60 lakh ex-showroom. The petrol variants are priced from Rs. 7.54 – 12.79 lakh while the diesel trims range from Rs. 8.69 – 14.60 lakh.