In the fast-growing compact SUV market in India, the Tata Nexon has made a name for itself as one of the most stylish, safe, and value-packed offerings. Since its launch in 2017, the Nexon has evolved significantly, not just in design but also in performance, features, and safety. It represents Tata Motors’ ambitious step toward redefining what Indian buyers can expect from a compact SUV.
Striking Design That Stands Out
One of the first things that grabs attention about the Tata Nexon is its bold and futuristic design. The car received a major facelift in 2020 and again in 2023, aligning its design with Tata’s Impact Design 2.0 philosophy. The sleek LED DRLs, aggressive front grille, muscular bonnet, and coupe-like sloping roofline give it a sporty, yet sophisticated appearance.
The Nexon doesn’t shy away from making a strong road presence. With 16-inch alloy wheels, prominent wheel arches, and dual-tone color options, the Nexon is visually appealing from every angle. The rear of the car, with its signature Y-shaped LED tail lamps and sculpted tailgate, ensures it looks as good leaving as it does arriving.
Engine Options: Petrol, Diesel, and Electric
Tata Nexon comes with three powertrain options: petrol, diesel, and an all-electric variant (Nexon EV), making it a versatile choice for various driving needs.
- Petrol Variant: The 1.2-litre turbocharged Revotron petrol engine delivers around 120 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque. It provides a balanced performance for both city commutes and highway drives.
- Diesel Variant: The 1.5-litre Revotorq diesel engine produces 115 PS and 260 Nm, offering excellent fuel efficiency and strong low-end torque — a favorite for long-distance travelers.
- Nexon EV: The Nexon EV, India’s highest-selling electric SUV, is powered by a 30.2 kWh or 40.5 kWh battery pack (Prime and Max versions respectively). It offers a real-world range of up to 300–450 km per charge and fast charging capabilities.
Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed AMT, and in EV models, a single-speed automatic, ensuring flexibility for all kinds of drivers.
Class-Leading Safety
Tata Motors has built a strong reputation for safety, and the Nexon played a major role in that. It was the first Indian car to receive a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, a milestone that has since become a benchmark in its segment.
Standard safety features in the Nexon include:
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Control
- Traction Control
- Rear Parking Sensors and Camera
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
Higher variants also come with advanced driver aids and 6 airbags. The robust build quality, high-strength steel structure, and thoughtfully integrated safety features make the Nexon one of the safest cars on Indian roads.
Feature-Rich Interior
Step inside the Tata Nexon, and you’re greeted with a well-designed, tech-loaded cabin. The interior feels premium with its layered dashboard design, soft-touch materials, and high-quality fit and finish.
Highlight features include:
- A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- A full-digital instrument cluster
- Wireless phone charging
- Ventilated front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Rear AC vents
- Electric sunroof (in higher variants)
- Connected car tech (iRA in Tata’s ecosystem)
The seats are comfortable, with ample space for five passengers. The boot space of 350 liters is practical for weekend getaways and daily errands alike.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
The Nexon petrol offers mileage of around 17–18 km/l, while the diesel variant can go up to 22–23 km/l under optimal conditions. The EV version, on the other hand, offers excellent running cost benefits, with per-km charges significantly lower than ICE models.
Tata Motors has also improved its service network and aftersales experience over the years. The Nexon comes with attractive warranty packages and service plans, making ownership relatively hassle-free.
Value for Money
One of the strongest USPs of the Tata Nexon is its value proposition. Starting from around ₹8 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base petrol variant and going up to ₹15–18 lakh for the top-end EV Max, the Nexon caters to a wide range of buyers. It manages to offer premium features, top-tier safety, and versatile performance at a very competitive price point.
Final Thoughts
The Tata Nexon has carved out a solid niche for itself in India’s highly competitive compact SUV market. Whether you’re looking for style, safety, performance, or an eco-friendly drive, the Nexon delivers on all fronts. It’s a perfect example of how Indian engineering and innovation can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global competitors.