Tata Nexon

Tata structured the Nexon lineup to cover a massive price band. Buyers can enter the range at a highly affordable price point or alternatively go for the expensive trims.

The diesel motor remains the best option for long-distance drivers looking to save on fuel costs. But the CNG variant isn’t far behind, dropping down on performance numbers to compensate for equally efficient fuel frugality. The 44-litre tank capacity applies universally across its three engines. The CNG model also has an additional twin-cylinder CNG tank with a 60-litre water capacity.

With its full five-star rating, the SUV also uses a highly rigid body shell to keep its occupants safe.

Passive Safety and Crash Protection

• Tata provides six airbags as standard across every single variant, from Smart to Fearless.
• Three-point seatbelts are included for all passengers.
• ISOFIX child seat mounts keep young passengers secure in the back.

Active Safety and Stability Systems

• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) comes standard on all variants.
• Higher variants get a high-resolution 360-degree camera and a blind-spot monitor.
• The car also features an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), hill-hold assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
• The Fearless+ PS DCA trim was updated with Level 2 ADAS, which houses Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition.
• But note that the ADAS suite is not available on the diesel and CNG powertrains. 

The latest Nexon’s cabin is no longer a basic functional space. In fact, it has become a highly digital environment.

Seshan appreciates the given tech,

"From Type C USB ports to a wireless phone charger, Tata seems to have covered all the basics here."

Infotainment and Interface

• The top variants have a 10.25-inch floating touchscreen.
• The driver gets a matching 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster.
• The second screen can display the navigation map directly behind the steering wheel.

Cabin Convenience and Practical Features

• The front seats offer a ventilation function.
• An electric panoramic sunroof is available right from the Pure+ PS trim.
• The nine-speaker JBL audio system includes a subwoofer, delivering heavy bass.

Packaging an SUV under four metres requires compromise, but the Nexon handles luggage duties reasonably well.

• The boot offers a total capacity of 382 litres (and 321 litres in the CNG variant).
• This space easily accommodates two large hard-shell suitcases and a few soft duffel bags.
• The loading lip is slightly high, so you have to lift heavy bags up and over the bumper.
• The rear seats fold down in a 60:40 split, allowing you to carry much longer items.

Tata tuned the suspension to handle terrible Indian roads pretty well, but there’s a touch of stiffness from the MacPherson setup as well.

City Driving

• Driving the Nexon through the city feels convenient.
• The steering stays light while moving through narrow streets.
• The suspension absorbs large potholes fairly well.
• However, as mentioned, you do feel a slight underlying firmness over sharp bumps.

Highway Driving

• The SUV shines on the highway, as its heavy kerb weight keeps it firmly planted.
• The steering also gains reassuring weight as you drive faster.
• The car’s stability doesn’t let drivers become nervous at triple-digit speeds.
• Wind and road noise are isolated well, making it a quiet long-distance cruiser.

Seshan states,

“One thing I can say is, the Tata Nexon is a great driver’s car.”

Tata organises the current Nexon’s lineup using a persona-based naming strategy.

The Essentials That You Don’t Get

• A completely soft, plush ride over broken city streets
• Physical buttons for the automatic climate control
• High rearward visibility through the inside rearview mirror

Given the several trims available, you can either settle for a base-level variant or pay for the absolute top tier in this nameplate. Regardless of the variant you choose, the safety credentials stay the same.

Best on a Tight Budget: Pure Plus

If you want to keep costs low, the Pure Plus trim is the logical choice. It gives you a touchscreen, steering-mounted controls, and essential convenience features without pushing into the expensive higher tiers.

Best Value Overall: Creative Plus

This variant might hit the sweet spot for some. It adds the 360-degree camera, automatic climate control, and 16-inch alloy wheels. You get the premium look and safety tech without paying top-spec prices.

Best for Luxury Enthusiasts: Fearless Plus

If you want the complete digital experience, buy the Fearless Plus. The twin 10.25-inch screens, ventilated seats, and JBL sound system make the cabin feel like a much more expensive vehicle.