In the fiercely competitive Indian automotive landscape, the Tata Nexon has carved out a distinctive niche for itself.
This compact SUV, recently refreshed for 2023, continues to turn heads and challenge perceptions about what Indian automakers can achieve. Let’s dive deep into what makes the Tata Nexon a compelling choice for SUV enthusiasts.
Design That Demands Attention
The Nexon’s design language, dubbed ‘IMPACT 2.0’, is nothing short of striking. It’s a vehicle that looks like it’s in motion even when standing still, with bold lines and a muscular stance that exudes confidence.
The front fascia is dominated by sleek LED daytime running lights positioned high on the hood, while the main headlamps are set lower in the bumper – a unique arrangement that gives the Nexon a distinctive face.
From the side, the Nexon’s SUV credentials are unmistakable. A strong character line runs from the front fender to the wraparound taillights, accentuating the vehicle’s length and giving it a dynamic profile.
The floating roof design, achieved through blacked-out pillars, adds a touch of modernity and visual lightness to the overall silhouette.
At the rear, the Nexon continues to impress with its wide stance and connected taillight design. The dual exhaust finishers and skid plate-style bumper insert reinforce its rugged appeal. It’s a design that manages to be both sophisticated and adventurous – a difficult balance that Tata has struck with aplomb.
Heart of the Beast
Under the hood, the Tata Nexon packs a punch with two engine options. The 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine churns out a respectable 120 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque. For those who prefer diesel, there’s a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged unit that produces 115 PS and a hefty 260 Nm of torque.
Both engines come mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission). The AMT versions now feature a monostable shifter with paddle shifters, adding a sporty touch to the driving experience.
For those seeking the pinnacle of refinement, Tata offers a 7-speed DCA (Dual Clutch Automatic) with an e-shifter in select variants.
The Nexon’s multi-drive modes – Eco, City, and Sport – allow drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their preferences and driving conditions. This flexibility ensures that whether you’re navigating city traffic or cruising on the highway, the Nexon is always in its element.
Riding on Solid Foundations
The Nexon’s underpinnings are one of its strongest suits. Built on a robust platform, the SUV boasts excellent ride quality and handling characteristics.
The suspension setup, featuring independent MacPherson struts up front and a twist-blade setup at the rear, soaks up road imperfections with ease. Even on rough patches, the Nexon maintains its composure, offering a plush ride that’s among the best in its class.
With a ground clearance of 209 mm, the Nexon confidently tackles urban obstacles and light off-road terrain. The well-tuned electric power steering provides good feedback, making the Nexon feel more nimble than its size would suggest.
Cabin Comfort and Technology
Step inside the Nexon, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s both spacious and well-appointed.
The dashboard design is modern, with a floating 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. This Harman-developed system offers crisp graphics and supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with wireless connectivity.
The driver is treated to a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, which can be customized to display various information, including navigation directions. The use of soft-touch materials and premium textures elevates the interior ambiance, giving the Nexon an upmarket feel.
Seating comfort is a strong point, with well-bolstered front seats that now offer ventilation in higher trims.
The rear bench offers ample legroom and headroom, making the Nexon a comfortable ride for all occupants. The panoramic sunroof, available on higher trims, floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of space.
On the technology front, the Nexon doesn’t disappoint. The infotainment system is complemented by a JBL-branded 9-speaker sound system with a subwoofer, delivering an immersive audio experience.
The Connected Vehicle Technology with iRA 2.2 allows users to access various vehicle functions through their smartphones.
Other notable features include a wireless charger, voice-assisted electric sunroof operation, an air purifier, and a cooled glovebox. The next-gen capacitive touch panel for climate controls adds a premium touch to the interior.
Safety First
Tata has always prioritized safety, and the Nexon is no exception. The SUV comes equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, and ISOFIX child-seat anchors as standard.
Advanced driver assistance features like electronic stability program (ESP), hill hold control, and hill descent control add an extra layer of safety, especially in challenging driving conditions.
The Nexon’s body structure, designed with high-strength steel, provides excellent crash protection. This commitment to safety has been recognized by Global NCAP, with the Nexon scoring a commendable 5-star rating in adult occupant protection – a first for an Indian car.
On-Road Performance
Behind the wheel, the Nexon impresses with its refined driving dynamics. The petrol engine, while audible at idle, settles into a smooth hum at cruising speeds.
The torque-rich nature of both powerplants means that the Nexon feels responsive in most driving situations, with minimal turbo lag.
In urban environments, the Nexon’s commanding driving position and light steering make it easy to maneuver despite its size. The excellent all-round visibility, aided by a rearview camera and parking sensors, takes the stress out of tight parking spots.
On the highway, the Nexon truly comes into its own. The stable ride and well-insulated cabin make long journeys a pleasure.
The engine’s strong mid-range ensures that overtaking is a breeze, while the well-judged gear ratios keep the motor in its sweet spot.
Efficiency and Ownership Experience
For a vehicle of its size and performance, the Nexon delivers respectable fuel efficiency.
Tata claims figures of around 17.05 to 17.33 km/l for the petrol variants and an impressive 23.22 to 24.07 km/l for the diesel versions. In real-world conditions, these numbers may vary, but the Nexon remains a relatively frugal choice in its segment.
Tata’s after-sales network has seen significant improvements in recent years, with expanded service centers and better parts availability. The company offers a standard warranty of 2 years/75,000 km, with options to extend this for added peace of mind.
Conclusion: A Homegrown Hero
The Tata Nexon represents a coming of age for the Indian automotive industry. It’s a vehicle that can hold its own against international competitors, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and value.
While it may not be perfect – some might find the petrol engine a bit noisy at idle, for instance – the Nexon’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
With prices ranging from Rs. 8 lakh to Rs. 14.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the Nexon offers excellent value for money across its variant range. It competes fiercely with established players like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet, often coming out on top in comparisons.
For those in the market for a compact SUV that offers presence, comfort, and capability in equal measure, the Tata Nexon deserves serious consideration.
It’s not just a great Indian car; it’s a great car, period. With continuous improvements and updates, Tata has shown its commitment to keeping the Nexon at the forefront of the SUV segment.
In a market flooded with choices, the Tata Nexon stands tall as a testament to what Indian engineering and design can achieve.
It’s a bold statement on wheels, one that continues to win hearts and change perceptions, one drive at a time.