The Tata Nexon 2026 continues to dominate India’s compact SUV segment with its bold design, strong safety credentials, and multiple powertrain options. One of the biggest advantages of the Nexon lineup is its flexibility — buyers can choose between petrol, diesel, and electric (EV) variants depending on their driving needs and budget.
With the 2026 update, Tata Motors has streamlined its variant lineup while ensuring that customers get the right mix of performance, fuel efficiency, safety, and advanced technology.
In this detailed guide, we break down which Tata Nexon 2026 variant gets which engine and transmission option, helping you choose the best SUV configuration for your needs.
Tata Nexon 2026: Powertrain Overview
The 2026 Nexon is expected to be available with three main powertrain categories:
- 1.2L Turbo-Petrol Engine
- 1.5L Turbo-Diesel Engine
- Electric (Nexon EV) – Standard & Long Range
Let’s understand each in detail.
1. 1.2L Turbo-Petrol Engine Variants
Engine Specifications (Expected)
- Engine Type: 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol
- Power Output: ~120 PS
- Torque: ~170 Nm
- Transmission Options:
- 5-speed Manual
- 6-speed Manual
- AMT
- 7-speed DCT (higher variants)
- Fuel Efficiency: Approx. 17–19 km/l
This turbo-petrol engine is designed for urban commuters and buyers seeking refined performance with good fuel economy.
Petrol Variants & Transmission Availability
Smart (Base Variant)
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol
- 5-speed Manual only
Ideal for budget-focused buyers looking for a safe and practical compact SUV.
Smart+
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol
- 6-speed Manual
- AMT option available
Adds more convenience features while retaining affordability.
Pure / Pure+
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol
- 6-speed Manual
- AMT
- Select trims may offer DCT
Balanced option with infotainment upgrades and comfort features.
Creative / Creative+
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol
- 6-speed Manual
- 7-speed DCT
Designed for buyers wanting premium features and smoother automatic performance.
Fearless / Fearless+ (Top Variant)
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol
- 6-speed Manual
- 7-speed DCT
Top-end features including larger touchscreen, premium audio, ventilated seats (expected), and advanced safety features.
2. 1.5L Turbo-Diesel Engine Variants
Engine Specifications (Expected)
- Engine Type: 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel
- Power Output: ~115 PS
- Torque: ~260 Nm
- Transmission Options:
- 6-speed Manual
- AMT
- Fuel Efficiency: Approx. 22–24 km/l
The diesel engine is ideal for highway users and buyers seeking high torque and superior mileage.
Diesel Variant Availability
Diesel powertrain is usually offered from mid-level variants onward.
Smart+ Diesel
- 1.5L Diesel
- 6-speed Manual
Entry point into diesel lineup.
Pure / Pure+ Diesel
- 6-speed Manual
- AMT
Offers convenience and strong mileage.
Creative Diesel
- Manual
- AMT
Balanced performance and comfort.
Fearless Diesel
- Manual
- AMT
Fully loaded diesel configuration for buyers seeking torque + premium features.
3. Tata Nexon EV 2026 Variants
Tata continues to strengthen its EV portfolio. The Nexon EV remains one of India’s best-selling electric SUVs.
Battery Options (Expected)
Standard Range
- Battery: ~30–35 kWh
- Range: 325–375 km (claimed)
- Fast Charging: 10–80% in under 60 minutes
Long Range
- Battery: ~40–45 kWh
- Range: 400–465 km (claimed)
- Enhanced thermal management
EV Variant Lineup
Nexon EV Smart
- Standard Range battery
- Essential safety and infotainment features
Nexon EV Creative
- Standard or Long Range
- Larger infotainment screen
- Connected car tech
Nexon EV Fearless
- Long Range battery
- Premium interior
- 360-degree camera
- Advanced driver assistance features (possible)
Which Powertrain Should You Choose?
Choose Petrol If:
- You mostly drive in city traffic
- Annual running is under 10,000–12,000 km
- You want lower initial purchase cost
- Prefer smooth and refined performance
Choose Diesel If:
- You drive long highway distances
- Need higher torque for overtaking
- Want best-in-class mileage
- Plan heavy usage
Choose EV If:
- You want zero tailpipe emissions
- Lower running cost matters
- Have home charging setup
- Drive mostly in urban areas
Pricing Expectations (Ex-Showroom Estimate)
- Petrol Variants: ₹8 lakh – ₹13 lakh
- Diesel Variants: ₹10 lakh – ₹14.5 lakh
- Nexon EV: ₹14 lakh – ₹19 lakh
These ranges position the Nexon as a versatile compact SUV catering to entry-level buyers as well as premium urban customers.
Safety & Technology Across Variants
Tata Nexon 2026 is expected to maintain its strong safety reputation.
Key features may include:
- 6 airbags (higher variants)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- 360-degree camera (top trims)
- Large 10.25-inch infotainment display
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Connected car technology
- Wireless charging
- Ventilated seats (select variants)
Tata’s strong crash safety rating continues to be a major selling point in the compact SUV segment.
Why Tata Nexon 2026 Stands Out
- Multiple engine options
- Strong diesel torque advantage
- Proven EV platform
- Advanced safety features
- Competitive pricing strategy
- Wide service network
Very few SUVs in India offer petrol, diesel, and EV options under one model umbrella — giving Nexon a clear market advantage.
Final Verdict
The Tata Nexon 2026 remains one of the most versatile compact SUVs in India. Whether you want a fuel-efficient diesel for highway drives, a refined turbo-petrol for city use, or an electric SUV with low running costs, Nexon has a variant tailored to your needs.
Understanding which variant offers which powertrain helps you make a smarter buying decision based on usage pattern, budget, and long-term ownership goals.
With its balanced mix of performance, safety, technology, and multiple engine options, the Tata Nexon 2026 continues to set benchmarks in the compact SUV segment.
If you’re planning to upgrade in 2026, the Nexon’s wide powertrain portfolio makes it one of the strongest contenders in the market.