Tata Nexon: Tata Motors has made quite a comeback over the past couple of years, and at the heart of this renewed resurgence is the Tata Nexon.
Introduced in 2017, the Nexon has grown up to be a smart, funky and relatively sensible compact SUV that not only flies off the shelves but also manages to give its segment leaders a run for its money with quiet confidence.
Now, with the facelift and all the new age features, the Nexon stands out. But is it all style and marketing jargon, or does it still pack a punch where it counts most — on the road? Let’s break it down.
Design: Attention-Grabber That Doesn’t Mess Around
The Nexon is bold, futuristic and delightfully different. It adorns Tata’s new design language on the front with sharp DRLs, a bold grille and tautly shaped bumpers that lend it all the purposeful stance.
From the side, that coupe-like roofline and flared wheel arches distinguish it from the usual boxy-SUV crowd.
At the back as well the LED bar crossing the tail-lamps imparts a touch of premium.
It’s the kind of car that elicits second looks as it rolls down the street — not overly flashy, but inarguably contemporary. In short, the Nexon doesn’t pretend to be anything else on the road.
Interior and Features: High on Tech, Big on Comfort
Open the door and the Nexon leaps a segment ahead in terms of quality straight away. There’s a sense of quality with the dual-tone dash, soft-touch materials and optional 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The screen’s sharp, the interface is intuitive, and the connected car tech functions without a hitch.
There’s also a full digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice commands, ventilated seats and even a wireless charger. Tata, in short, hasn’t done any goodie (secret) shaving.
Rear seat space is OK, boot size is sensible, and general ergonomics seem to have some good thinking behind them.
Engine & Performance: Smooth, Capable, and Under-Stressed
The Nexon offers in two engine options, a 1.2L turbo-petrol and a 1.5L diesel, both BS6-compliant and is now offered with a range of gearbox options such as the DCT, manual and AMT.
The petrol motor/ under the hood is eager to go, poyonpecially in the mid-range and passing another vehicle seems a relaxed drive.
The diesel, on the other hand, is more torque-rich and freeway- friendly. If you’re a high-mileage muncher; the diesel is a great choice.
The ride is grown-up and well-cushioned over bumps and potholes, while the steering is properly weighted at higher speeds.
It may not be the most dynamic SUV on the block, but it’s mightily sure-footed and confidence-inspiring.
Safety: Setting the Benchmark
Tata Nexon was the first made-in-India car to score a 5-star Global NCAP rating, and that trend is pursued even further with six airbags (on top-end trims), ESP, traction control, hill-hold assist, ISOFIX mounts and more.
Safety does not appear to be a box that has been ticked here – it’s clearly incorporated into the DNA of the Nexon.
In a the same segment that brand often cheap out in, Tata has kept it’s pants up on this one, and this deserves kudos.
Pros
Eye-catching futuristic look
Highly-equipped, luxury interiors
Several powertrain variations
Very nice ride comfort and high speed stability
Top notch safety ratings (5 starts)
Cons
So-so top-end punch from petrol engine
Traffic is a bit sluggish, though, because the AMT isn’t quite this gearbox at its best.
Some of the cabin plastics could be improved
Diesel gets an expensive price tag
Tata Nexon: VERDICT: Almost Everything You’d Want in a Compact SUV
The Tata Nexon isn’t the underdog now — it’s a serious contender that checks almost all the boxes Indian buyers fret about — design, safety, features and road presence.
If you are a young metrosexual riding around the city or a compact small family looking for safe and utility-filled ride, then the Models – available in both petrol and diesel version of the new Tata Nexon is sure to enthrall you.
Yes, it has its oddities, but given what you’ve paid, you’re pedaling away with a decently put-together, well-rounded SUV that’s made at home in India, and isn’t afraid to declare it.
If you are considering a compact SUV, not considering the Nexon would be a crime, to be honest.