Tata Nexon: The Tata Nexon represents a watershed moment in the Indian automotive landscape—a homegrown success story that transformed Tata Motors’ market perception and set new benchmarks for safety, design, and value.
Launched in 2017 and significantly refreshed in 2020 and 2023, this compact SUV emerged as a formidable competitor in one of India’s most hotly contested segments.
The Nexon’s journey from concept to market leader encapsulates Tata’s remarkable turnaround, evolving from a manufacturer once criticized for uninspiring designs and questionable quality to a brand synonymous with safety innovation and contemporary styling. Through its multiple iterations, the Nexon has not only captured market share but has fundamentally altered consumer expectations in the sub-4-meter SUV category.
Tata Nexon Design Philosophy and Evolution
The Nexon’s design language marks a decisive break from Tata’s utilitarian past, embracing the IMPACT design philosophy that prioritizes visual drama and emotional appeal.
The original 2017 model introduced a coupe-SUV silhouette uncommon in its segment, with a rising beltline and contrast-colored roof creating a floating effect that distinguished it from boxier competitors.
The front fascia featured Tata’s humanity line—a subtle curve connecting the headlamps through the grille—while the distinctive white ceramic strip running along the window line became a signature element.
The 2020 facelift brought sharper lines and more aggressive styling, aligning the Nexon with Tata’s evolving design language. LED daytime running lights adopted a tri-arrow pattern that would become a recurring motif across Tata’s lineup, while redesigned bumpers and lighting elements created a more contemporary appearance.
The most recent 2023 refresh pushed aesthetic boundaries further with a more prominent grille, connected LED light bar, and sculptural surfaces that enhance its road presence despite compact dimensions.
Throughout these iterations, the Nexon has maintained a distinct visual identity that resonates with younger buyers seeking design flair without sacrificing practicality.
The vehicle successfully balances masculine SUV cues with urban sophistication, creating a visual package that stands out in India’s increasingly homogenized automotive landscape.
Interior Space and Evolution
Inside, the Nexon’s cabin has undergone continuous refinement while maintaining a focus on space efficiency and ergonomics. The dashboard architecture features a layered design with contrasting materials and textures creating visual interest.
The floating infotainment screen (7-inch initially, upgraded to 10.25-inch in later versions) serves as the focal point, flanked by slim air vents that emphasize cabin width.
Material quality has seen significant improvements across generations, with the latest models featuring soft-touch materials on key touchpoints, fabric or leatherette door inserts, and reduced hard plastics.
Fit and finish have similarly progressed, with panel gaps and switchgear operation reflecting Tata’s commitment to elevating perceived quality.
Despite sub-4-meter length constraints imposed by Indian tax regulations, interior packaging impresses through intelligent space utilization. Front occupants enjoy generous headroom and shoulder room, while rear passengers benefit from well-contoured seats with adequate knee room for average-sized adults.
The 350-liter boot (expandable to 690 liters with rear seats folded) provides practical cargo capacity for weekend getaways or grocery runs, though loading heavy items requires navigating a relatively high lip.
The driving position offers good visibility through the front and sides, with the elevated seating providing the commanding view many SUV buyers seek. Later models addressed earlier ergonomic quirks, relocating certain controls for improved usability and introducing a electronic parking brake in place of the somewhat awkward manual lever in earlier iterations.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.2L Revotron turbo-petrol (120 PS, 170 Nm) / 1.5L Revotorq diesel (110 PS, 260 Nm) / 1.2L Revotron CNG (73 PS, 103 Nm) |
| Electric Option | Nexon EV with 30.2 kWh/40.5 kWh battery (129-143 PS, 245-310 Nm) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / 6-speed manual / 6-speed AMT / 7-speed DCT |
| Drive Modes | Eco, City, Sport (with distinct throttle mapping) |
| Ground Clearance | 209 mm |
| Turning Radius | 5.1 meters |
| Suspension | Independent MacPherson strut (front), Twist beam with coil spring (rear) |
| Brakes | Disc (front), Drum (rear) |
| Tires | 215/60 R16 (standard) / 215/55 R17 (higher variants) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 3,993 × 1,811 × 1,606 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,498 mm |
| Boot Space | 350 liters (expandable to 690 liters) |
Under the hood, the Nexon offers a range of powertrain options catering to diverse buyer preferences. The 1.2-liter Revotron turbocharged petrol engine delivers sprightly performance once past initial turbo lag, with the 120 PS output providing adequate acceleration for urban environments.
The 1.5-liter Revotorq diesel remains popular for its strong mid-range torque and excellent fuel efficiency, making it well-suited for longer journeys and heavier loads.
Transmission options have expanded over time, with the initial 6-speed manual and somewhat clunky 6-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) now supplemented by a more refined 7-speed dual-clutch automatic in newer petrol variants.
The drive mode selector—offering Eco, City, and Sport options—noticeably alters throttle response and steering weight, allowing drivers to prioritize efficiency or engagement based on conditions.
Ride quality represents one of the Nexon’s strongest attributes. The suspension tuning effectively balances compliance over broken surfaces with reasonable body control during cornering.
The 209mm ground clearance proves valuable on India’s varied road conditions, allowing the vehicle to traverse unexpected obstacles without drama. Noise suppression has improved with each iteration, though some road and wind noise intrusion remains evident at highway speeds—particularly in models equipped with the larger wheel options.
Steering response strikes a reasonable compromise between ease of use in urban settings and stability at higher velocities. While not offering the feedback enthusiasts might desire, the system provides sufficient precision for confident placement on narrower roads.
Braking performance from the front disc/rear drum setup delivers adequate stopping power, though repeated hard braking can induce some fade—a common characteristic in this segment.
Safety: A Paradigm Shift
5-star Global NCAP safety rating (first Indian car to achieve this distinction)
Reinforced safety cage with high-strength steel
Up to six airbags (dual front, side, and curtain)
Electronic stability program with traction control
ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard
Electronic brake distribution and brake assist
Tire pressure monitoring system
360-degree surround view camera system (on premium variants)
Automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers
Front and rear parking sensors
The Nexon’s most revolutionary contribution arguably lies in safety standards. When it achieved a 5-star Global NCAP rating in 2018 (and maintained it in subsequent assessments), it fundamentally altered the safety conversation in India’s automotive landscape.
Prior to this achievement, safety features were frequently sacrificed at the altar of cost reduction, with many manufacturers offering minimal protection even in premium variants.
Tata’s decision to engineer the Nexon with a focus on structural integrity and comprehensive safety features—and to subject it to independent testing—forced competitors to reconsider their approaches.
The resulting industry-wide improvement in safety standards represents a genuine paradigm shift in a market where crash protection had historically received inadequate attention.
Technology and Features
Over its lifespan, the Nexon has consistently expanded its technology offerings to remain competitive in a feature-conscious market:
10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
9-speaker JBL premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer
7-inch digital instrument cluster with multiple display themes
Connected car technology with over 40 features accessible via smartphone
Wireless smartphone charging pad with cooling function
Ventilated front seats for improved comfort in hot conditions
Air purifier with AQI display for pollution monitoring
Voice-activated sunroof operation
Cruise control and automatic climate control
Wearable key (activity key wristband) for active lifestyles
The latest iteration introduces advanced features previously uncommon in this segment, such as ventilated seats and a voice-commanded sunroof, reflecting Tata’s ambition to offer premium experiences at accessible price points.
The infotainment system has evolved from a somewhat basic interface to a responsive, feature-rich environment that supports wireless smartphone integration and over-the-air updates.
Real-World Practicality
Day-to-day usability benefits from thoughtful touches throughout the cabin. Storage solutions include generous door pockets that accommodate 1-liter bottles, a reasonably sized glove box with cooling function, a deep center console bin, and multiple cup holders.
Charging options are plentiful, with USB-A, USB-C, and 12V outlets distributed across both rows.
Fuel efficiency varies significantly by powertrain, with the diesel variant delivering impressive real-world economy (typically 18-20 km/l in mixed driving) that appeals to high-mileage users.
The turbo-petrol offers reasonable efficiency for its performance level (13-15 km/l), while the CNG variant provides exceptional running costs at the expense of reduced boot space and performance.
Maintenance costs align with segment expectations, with Tata’s expanding service network improving accessibility in smaller towns and cities. The company’s 5-year/unlimited kilometer warranty package (introduced in recent years) addresses historical concerns about long-term reliability, reflecting growing confidence in product quality.
Market Impact and Competition
The Nexon competes in India’s fiercely contested sub-4-meter SUV segment against established rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Mahindra XUV3XO.
Its market positioning has evolved from value-focused challenger to confident segment leader, with pricing that spans from accessible entry variants to feature-rich premium models that encroach on larger SUV territory.
Sales figures tell a compelling story of the model’s trajectory, with the Nexon frequently appearing among India’s top-selling SUVs despite intense competition. The introduction of the Nexon EV—India’s first accessible electric SUV—further strengthened the nameplate’s pioneer status and expanded its appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Ownership Experience Considerations
Owner feedback highlights several consistent themes across generations. Positive comments frequently center on the vehicle’s ride comfort over varied surfaces, the diesel engine’s excellent fuel efficiency and overtaking ability, and the comprehensive safety package that provides peace of mind for family users.
The distinctive styling also receives praise for standing out in parking lots increasingly populated by similar-looking competitors.
Criticisms tend to focus on specific aspects rather than fundamental flaws. Earlier models faced occasional quality control issues with electrical components, though these have diminished in later production runs.
The AMT transmission divides opinion, with some appreciating its affordability while others find its characteristics—particularly the pronounced head-nod during gear changes—frustrating in stop-start traffic. Interior material quality, while improved, still leaves room for refinement in certain areas when compared to segment benchmarks like the Kia Sonet.
Tata Nexon Conclusion
The Tata Nexon represents far more than just another entry in India’s crowded compact SUV segment—it symbolizes the remarkable transformation of Tata Motors itself.
From its bold design to its segment-defining safety credentials, the Nexon challenged preconceptions about what an Indian manufacturer could achieve when combining global standards with local understanding.
For consumers, the Nexon offers a compelling package that balances emotional appeal with rational benefits.
Its distinctive styling satisfies the desire for individuality, while the robust safety credentials provide reassurance for family-oriented buyers. The diverse powertrain options—including the pioneering electric variant—ensure relevance across different usage patterns and environmental considerations.
As urban environments become increasingly congested and safety awareness grows among Indian consumers, the Nexon’s blend of compact dimensions, elevated driving position, and comprehensive protection features positions it favorably for continued success.
Its evolution from ambitious contender to segment benchmark reflects not just Tata’s determination to change market perceptions, but also the company’s willingness to listen to customer feedback and continuously refine its offerings.
In a market where global brands often dictate trends, the Nexon stands as proof that understanding local conditions and consumer priorities can create products that not only compete with international offerings but sometimes surpass them in areas that matter most to their intended audience.
This achievement perhaps represents the Nexon’s most significant legacy—showing that “Made in India” can be a badge of pride rather than a compromise.