Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon has evolved every year since its debut in 2017. One would expect a brand new generation in six years, however, Tata Motors has chosen to update the same model comprehensively. The updated Nexon debuted in 2023 (read our detailed report) where Tata managed to infuse a sense of modernity in terms of design, quality and technology while retaining the old strengths. If you have your eyes on bringing the Tata Nexon home, then our detailed booking story will give you a detailed overview on the booking process and delivery timelines.

This sub-4-metre SUV from Tata has a tough battle, facing heat from giants such as the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue and the Kia Sonet. What does it do right? Where could it be better? Read on. 

Design and Build Quality

The Nexon’s unconventional design always caught people’s attention. With the facelift, you can positively expect some heads to turn. This is the first product to debut Tata’s newer design language, glimpses of which we first saw in the Curvv concept back in 2022. It seems like the Nexon is now puffing its cheeks at you with the added muscle in the front profile. You can take a closer look at its design, where we take you through the exterior in detailed images.

The vertical elements in the bumper add to the sense of height. The LED projector headlights are positioned lower now, and the cube-shaped fog lamps complete the lighting block on the bumper. There’s a functional vent here, designed to route air through to the wheels. This not only helps in cooling the brakes, but also improves aerodynamic efficiency by cleaning up the air in the wheel wells.  

However, it’s the new lighting signature that’s going to grab your attention first. There’s a slick animation on unlock, and the smooth white lighting adds a touch of class. You get dynamic (swipe-style) turn indicators too, elevating your sense of the Nexon’s worth as a product. You’re unlikely to dismiss it as an ‘affordable’ or ‘entry level’ SUV. 

Viewed from the side, you’ll note that the doors and the roof remain identical to the older model. Therefore, the side profile is possibly the only angle where you can draw an immediate parallel to its earlier versions. There’s a new set of 16-inch alloy wheels here, which are shared with the Nexon EV. Tata Motors has opted for plastic aero flaps within the diamond-cut design, which they claim is better for aerodynamic efficiency. It also enables them to offer customisation at a later stage. 

Chances of you going ‘Oh wow!’ are highest at the rear, though, mostly due to the new lighting signature. The tail lamps have a cool animation on lock/unlock, which lends a sense of occasion. Another design detail — Tata has hidden the wiper away under the chunkier spoiler now, which means lower variants without a spoiler won’t immediately appear barebones. 

Do note that Tata Motors has gone to town garnishing the Nexon with gloss black trim elements. The surround for the daytime running lamps, the swoosh under the window line and even the tail lamps have a glossy black texture. Please be careful to clean these areas with care (and not in circular motion), as they get scratched quite easily. Alternatively, investing in a paint protection film (PPF) might be a wise decision, especially for these panels. 

As you’d expect, build quality on the Tata Nexon is robust. There are minor inconsistencies in panel gaps on multiple test cars, which we feel could be ironed out with better attention to detail during quality control. Paint finish on the Nexon is above average, leaving very little to complain about.

The Tata Nexon is offered in 6 colours: Pristine White, Royal Blue, Daytona Grey, Grassland Beige, Pure Grey and Ocean Blue. For a stealthier look, you can also opt for the Dark (black) and Red Dark (black with red highlights) editions. However, not all colours are offered across all variants (find all details here).

Design and Quality

Changes to the exterior are drastic, but the interiors manage to top it. Starting with the multiple cabin themes that you get to see. Check out all the interior themes on offer in our detailed gallery. Apart from these, there is now a new red theme available with the newly launched Red Dark edition, which brings red leatherette seat upholstery. You can check out the very-bright interior theme in this story. 

The dashboard (split into three sections) all deliver a little more in terms of the feel-good factor.

With a whole lot of horizontal lines, slim AC vents and a free-floating touchscreen, there are German car-like details in the Nexon’s cabin. Minimalism has clearly been the core mantra here, as Tata has focused on eliminating physical buttons almost entirely. 

There’s a new two-spoke steering wheel that debuted with the Nexon. Flat-bottomed and meaty, the steering wheel exudes class as well. Add the backlit logo and the capacitive buttons in the mix (that thankfully still have physical feedback) and you’ve got a steering that’s memorable in equal parts from a design and functionality standpoint. 

The uptick in quality is immediately apparent too. Go hunting in the lower half of the dash, and you’d be pleasantly surprised with a cross-hatch texture we’ve seen in the Altroz. 

The top-spec versions of the Nexon get leatherette upholstery. This material is also used on the central armrest, door pad and dashboard giving it a premium feel. 

However, you can’t say the same for all of the cabin. There are clear instances of form preceding function. For instance, the USB chargers are hard to access, and the cupholders are tucked away inside the glovebox. The design also means there’s very little margin for error in terms of fit and finish, and that’s where Tata struggles a little. A few ill-fitting panels and misaligned trims were observed on both our test cars. These issues have existed since the Nexon debuted, and it seems they’d go away only when we see an entirely new generation. 

A carbon fibre-like texture in the mid-pad and a wrapped leatherette lower section ups the ambiance of the cabin. The same leatherette spills over onto the door pads, and the soft leatherette upholstery also seems slightly smoother and cushier than before. 

Front Seat

Ingress-egress continues to remain fuss-free, there’s no change here. There’s ample amount of space up front, whether it’s in terms of cabin width or headroom. 

The seat itself has plenty of range, and the steering wheel can be adjusted for tilt, enabling drivers to find a good driving position. Telescopic adjustment would’ve helped fine tune it further. From the driver’s seat you get a commanding view of the road up ahead. However, the A-pillar is slightly thick which hampers visibility. 

The cushioning on the seat is on the firmer side, which is just right for spending long hours. There’s adequate support for the sides, however, taller occupants might find their shoulders to have less support. Finally, there’s a central armrest (non-adjustable) that will prove to be helpful on highway drives. 

Rear Seat

We noticed a slight dip in the rear seat kneeroom, which we can attribute to three reasons: thicker cushioning on the front seat, the lack of a seat-back scoop, and the added cushioning on the rear seat base. The bigger rear seat base betters under thigh support, but pushes your knees ever so slightly forward. We don’t expect a change in space in variants that don’t get the extra comfy leatherette seats. 

There’s enough space for a six-footer to be comfortable behind another. No real issues with headroom or foot room either. Squeezing three in should be possible if absolutely necessary, but the Nexon is best used by a family of four and a child. There’s a proper seat belt for the central occupant, but no central headrest. 

Storage and Practicality

This has always been a sore point with the Nexon and in this iteration, it’s no different. There’s space in all four doors to store bottles (it’s better if they’re slim bottles) and there are umbrella holders in the front door pads too. 

The space in the centre console is very limited, giving you a shallow slot below the AC controls to park your wallet and keys and a wireless charging tray that can be used to keep your phone. Space here is barely enough to fit a ‘Plus’ sized phone. There’s an awkwardly shaped cubby hole under the front armrest too. 

Weirdly enough, cupholders are tucked away inside the glovebox rendering them useful only when the car is parked. The glovebox itself is decently sized. 

Rear seat occupants get two cupholders in the central armrest. 

Charging Options

Front occupants have a 12V socket alongside a USB type-A and type-C port. Accessing these ports is a bit of a task. Rear occupants get a USB type-A and type-C port placed below the AC vents. 

Boot Space

Claimed boot space stands at 382-litres. This is sufficient for anything a small family would want to carry for a weekend getaway. You can fit a large, medium and small-sized trolley bag each here with ease. However, if you want to make the best use of this boot, we suggest you use cabin-sized trolley bags. You’ll be able to fit in 4 of those, and have little space left over for a few sundry items.

Additionally, the top trims get a 60:40 split functionality. The rear seat bench also flips up, creating a flat floor which is handy when you want to transport larger items. 

Note: Nexon iCNG Bootspace

Bootspace drops to 312-litres here. This is because Tata has opted to use two slimmer CNG tanks (with a combined capacity of 60 litres) instead of one large tank that takes up the entire boot. Here too, you will be able to pack in 2-3 cabin-sized trolley bags quite easily.

The Nexon is among the best-equipped cars in the segment. It gets all the basics you want, and then some more! Here’s a list of the functional features

Now, let’s turn our attention to the standout features. And, here’s a bold claim to start this section with. The Nexon offers among the BEST infotainment experience in this segment. We will add a caveat here, though. This setup needs to function reliably and glitch-free for us to stand by it. The 10.25-inch touchscreen has great resolution, quick response times and a very intuitive user interface. Initial models of the Nexon faced issues with software and glitches, which seems to have been fixed over time. Having used the same screen in multiple other Tata cars, such as the new Altroz, Punch and Punch EV, we’re happy to report it functions as intended. 

This screen supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It’s paired with a solid 9-speaker JBL branded audio system (that includes a sub-woofer). The bass should hit a little more this time round, and audio quality is expectedly top-shelf. Not that the Nexon suffered from a poor audio system to begin with, but this update betters it. 

The 10.25-inch instrument cluster brings a few preset views along with the usual gamut of information you’d want. A cool party trick is its full-screen navigation view. You can relay Google Maps from Android Auto and Apple Maps from Apple CarPlay currently. Google Maps on Apple CarPlay isn’t supported currently due to some licensing limitations, but that’s one software update away. 

Another highlight is the new 360° camera. You get to choose between 3D and 2D views, both of which are executed rather well. The cameras on the mirrors activate while indicating too, giving you a feed on the touchscreen. This is convenient for sure, but it does override everything else meaning you won’t be able to see navigation here if you’re indicating.  In the Curvv/Curvv EV — this feed is available on the instrument cluster also, which makes it far more convenient. 

Front seat ventilation is also on offer. While it functions as intended (even if the blowers are slightly noisy), the placement of the buttons on the side of the seat will take some getting used to. 

The Nexon is the only other car in the segment apart from the Syros and the XUV 3XO that offers both a sunroof and a panoramic sunroof depending on the model. 

There’s no real missing feature here and execution is as per expectations too. In fact, with this feature set, the Nexon is going to make SUVs in a segment above feel a little hot under the collar. 

Safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Front and rear parking sensors, 3-point seat belts for all occupants, and individual seat belt reminders round off the package. 

In a recent update, Tata also added Level-1 ADAS (autonomous driver assistance system) features to its safety kit, packing features like autnomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition. It does not get adaptive cruise control.

The Tata Nexon has been crash tested by both Bharat NCAP (check out our detailed analysis to know how safe it is!) and Global NCAP where it scored a perfect 5 stars for adult occupant safety as well as child occupant safety.

Engine Options And Performance

There are no new engine options to be had with the Nexon facelift. The good old 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre turbo-diesel soldier unchanged. We have covered a detailed explainer on which variant gets which engine option for your reference.

1.2-litre Petrol

Start this engine up, and it quickly settles into a thrummy idle. You will feel mild vibrations on the floorboard during a cold start, but it smoothens out as the idle settles. Engine noise is controlled rather well, and unless you’re really exploring higher engine speeds, it’s unlikely to bother you. 

As before, this engine isn’t particularly exciting to drive, but it doesn’t leave you wanting for more power either. There are three drive modes: Eco, City and Sport. 

City Performance

The focus here is on ensuring there’s a lot of torque available at low rpm. This means you don’t have to downshift very often when traffic around you slows down. You can comfortably drive around in second or third gear throughout. Throttle response is smooth and easy to get used to. The travel on the clutch pedal might seem slightly long to some, but there are no concerns with weight, even if it’s to be used in bumper-to-bumper traffic. The gear action could’ve been smoother, however. If you simply want convenience, you can opt for a 6-speed AMT, which gets the job done. It’s not the smoothest and will feel jerky in stop-and-go traffic, but delivers on convenience. 

Surprisingly, Tata has added two more transmission options to the mix. There’s a 5-speed manual you can pick with the base-spec Nexon, and a 7-speed DCT that’s available on the top two trims. The dual-clutch automatic delivers on what’s expected from it. It’s smooth, quick, and picks up part-throttle inputs well too. It’s almost never confused, and has you in the right gear. That said, performance is closer to Hyundai’s DCT tech than VW’s slick DSG. 

We’d recommend the DCT as it’s best suited to the turbo-petrol engine's torquey nature. 

For city drives, you can expect around 11-13kmpl in real world conditions. 

Highway Performance 

Highway performance of the Nexon petrol is adequate. It’s better suited to cruising at 100-120kmph, than enthusiastically picking gaps in traffic and making quick overtakes. Here too, the strong torque from the engine ensures its spinning lazily ~2000rpm at triple digit speeds, which not just gives it enough power to make overtakes if needed, but also aids fuel efficiency. 

The DCT is quick to pick up on part throttle changes. However, if you press the accelerator fully, the gearbox does take a split second to respond and downshift. You can choose to use the paddle shifters in this case. 

You can expect a highway mileage of around 15kmpl from the Nexon petrol. 

Note: Nexon iCNG Review

If city running is high and keeping fuel costs low is a priority, we’d recommend considering the Nexon iCNG. It can start directly on CNG if required and switching between petrol and CNG is seamless too. For regular city commutes/office runs, it is unlikely you’ll be able to distinguish the drop in power and acceleration. The benefit of course, is better fuel efficiency which is sure to be kind to your wallet. 

On the highway, the drop in power and torque will be more apparent. Overtakes will require more planning and care. The Nexon iCNG is better suited to relaxed highway driving between 80-100kmph rather than fast cruises. 

1.5-litre Diesel

Consider the diesel engine if you foresee driving over 50km per day consistently. This is where the better fuel efficiency of the diesel engine will start reaping dividends. Compared to the older model, performance isn’t all that different. The diesel engine is clattery as you’d expect and gets loud if you push it. 

City Performance

This engine has more than adequate performance for the city. Much like the turbo-petrol, this engine too doesn’t mind being in a higher gear at lower speeds. Tata claims to have worked on the gearbox during the BS6.2 update. The shifts are crisper now, and not as rubbery as they once used to be. 

You wouldn’t really mind the weight of the clutch either, but long pedal travel might just be a bother, especially for heavy city use. There’s an option of a 6-speed AMT here, which does an acceptable job. We wish Tata could’ve provided a proper torque converter instead. 

Inside the city, you could expect a fuel efficiency of 13-15kmpl. 

Highway Performance

This motor loves being out on the open highways. It can hold 100-120kmph all day long without breaking a sweat. There’s more than enough torque for you to make overtakes at these speeds if required as well. But, it’s more likely that you’ll enjoy driving this car in a calm manner than hustling it through lanes frantically. 

Highway mileage is a highlight, as you can eke out upto 18kmpl from this engine.

Ride And Handling

The Nexon has always been one tough cookie — tackling uneven terrain with ease. But that inherent sense of stiffness that the Nexon dished out has now been muted a fair bit. The suspension seems noticeably more polished, ironing out bumps and undulations with more confidence and silence. Highway stability is appreciable too, and it remains composed at triple-digit speeds. 

The steering is adequately light for city use and weighs up enough for the highway. In corners, the Nexon remains neutral. There’s acceptable levels of body roll and the steering remains predictable and sharp enough.

The Nexon 2025 variants are divided into four broad categories: Smart, Pure, Creative, Fearless. These are further divided into sub variants. While it might be confusing, we have covered a detailed explainer on which variant gets what features to make life easier for you. 

Tata Nexon Smart variant: 

The base variant of the Nexon focuses only on the bare basics such as 6 airbags, LED headlamps and tail lamps, and air-conditioning. 

The Smart+ version adds a basic 7-inch touchscreen with wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. 

A sunroof is optional on the Smart+ variant. 

Check out this detailed story on the Tata Nexon's base Smart variant.

Tata Nexon Pure+ variant: 

Major addition is that of a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. 

A 4-inch MID, height-adjustable driver’s seat, front armrest and rear AC vents are other notable additions. 

A sunroof is optional on the Pure+ variant.

A bigger panoramic sunroof is available on the Pure + PS variant.

Tata Nexon Creative variant: 

This variant gets 16-inch alloy wheels, touch-panel for the automatic climate control, cruise control and a 360° camera. 

The Creative +S variant adds a sunroof. 

In the Creative+ PS variant  features such as a panoramic sunroof, bi-LED headlamps, wireless charging and tyre pressure monitoring system are available. 

Both the Creative+S and Creative+ PS variants are available in a Dark Edition. 

Tata Nexon Fearless+ variant:

This variant adds animations for the LED DRL and taillamp, a 10.25-inch screen for the instrument cluster, and leatherette upholstery. 

Other highlight features include a panoramic sunroof, air purifier, and an 8-speaker sound system. 

This variant is also available in a Dark and Red Dark Edition. 

CarDekho Recommends: 

Those on a tight budget can consider the Smart+ or Pure+ variants. Both offer a good safety package, a basic infotainment setup and essential functional features.

Overall, the most value for money variant is the Creative model. You can opt for standard or panoramic sunroof based on your preference, at extra cost. It balances all must-have features with good to have features such as 360° camera, automatic climate control, alloy wheels and cruise control.

In every measurable way — the Nexon has levelled up. While the design will grab eyeballs, it’s the interior experience that will make you stay. Finally, it’s the tech package that’s likely to seal the deal. We do hope this functions glitch-free and reliably through the course of ownership. 

The only real issue with the Nexon facelift is that Tata Motors has chosen to let a few legacy issues remain. Whether it’s ergonomics, or iffy fit and finish in odd places. None of these are dealbreakers though — making the Nexon a whole lot better than before.

Other Cars To Consider Instead Of The Tata Nexon

Maruti Brezza 

Reasons to consider

• Offers more rear seat space
• Top variant is affordable by more than Rs 1 lakh 

Reasons to ignore

• Not as feature-loaded
• No turbo-petrol or CNG option
• Proven safety package with level-1 ADAS

Read a detailed comparison between the Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza here.

Skoda Kylaq

Reasons to consider

• More fun to drive

• Top variants are significantly more affordable

Reasons to ignore

• Not as feature loaded

• Nexon is slightly more comfortable

• No diesel and CNG option

Here's how the Tata Nexon and Skoda Kylaq stack up against each other

Kia Sonet

Reasons to consider

• Glitch-free tech package

• Gets Level-1 ADAS for autonomous driving

• Offers a non-turbo petrol engine option for people wanting a relaxed drive and better mileage

Reasons to ignore

• No CNG option

Here's a detailed comparison between the Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Reasons to consider

• More powerful turbo-petrol engine

• Features Level-2 ADAS tech

• Better second row space for three 

Reasons to ignore

• Polarising styling might not suit everybody’s taste

• No CNG option

Hyundai Venue

Reasons to consider

• More premium interior experience

• Offers a NA petrol engine option

• Glitch-free tech package

• Boasts Level-2 ADAS tech

Reasons to ignore

• Ride comfort isn't as good

• No CNG option

Hyundai Venue vs Tata Nexon: Which sub-4m SUV should you pick?