Tata Nexon EV Facelift Driven: 5 Things We Learned

The new Nexon EV does great in terms of performance and features, but some issues of the pre-facelift Nexon EV are still present

The Tata Nexon EV facelift has been launched at a starting price of Rs 14.74 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom) and now gets a completely refreshed design, loads of new features and an extended range. And ahead of its launch, we got a chance to drive the electric SUV, and here are all our observations:

Designed As An EV

The previous version of the Nexon EV was derived from the ICE (internal combustion engine) version of the Nexon. It looked the same and got minimal cosmetic changes, save for the EV-specific blue elements and closed-off grille. With the facelifted Nexon EV, Tata seems to have done the opposite: designed the Nexon EV first, as a ground-up electric vehicle, and then carried the design forward to the ICE version.

This way, these design elements, like the connecting LED DRLs, aerodynamic alloy wheels, vertical elements on the bumper and the overall fascia of the Nexon EV look more natural and give the Nexon EV an identity of its own.

Great Feature Additions

Apart from having a distinct new look, the 2023 Nexon EV is also loaded with features, some of which are not even present on the ICE Nexon. The biggest feature addition is the new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the EV-exclusive top-end variant. This large screen gives a great infotainment experience and also allows you to stream OTT platforms while parked through Tata’s Arcade.ev.

Also Read: 2023 Tata Nexon EV Facelift vs Mahindra XUV400 EV vs MG ZS EV: Price Comparison

Apart from this screen, it also gets a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, a 360-degree camera with a blind view monitor, and vehicle-to-load and vehicle-to-vehicle charging capabilities, which makes the Nexon EV challenge cars from a segment above.

Smoother Drive Experience Overall

The pre-facelift Nexon EV offered a peaky performance which some people liked, but it wasn’t the most pleasant experience for new EV buyers. With the current Nexon EV, Tata has put in a new Gen2 electric motor, and it has made the new Nexon EV’s drive experience smoother and new EV buyer-friendly. These new motors are rated at 129PS/215Nm and 144PS/215Nm. The power is up but torque is down which is a major factor in making the Nexon EV a little less punchy while accelerating. But it has not made an impact on its overall performance, the Nexon is still quick and its top speed has also increased from 140kmph to 150kmph.

Also See: Tata Nexon Facelift Pure Variant Explained In 10 Images

The ride quality of the Nexon EV is phenomenal. While it is slightly firmer than the ICE Nexon, it is not uncomfortable. It drives over bumps and bad roads with ease and its high speed stability is good as well. 

Slightly Less Spacious

Cabin space isn’t much of an issue with the Nexon EV and near identical to Nexon’s ICE version. But, with the Nexon Long Range (Previously Nexon EV Max), the rear seats are slightly raised due to the placement of the larger battery. Pairing this with the extra cushioning causes a lack of space for the rear seat passengers.

Ergonomic Cabin Issues Persist

The Nexon EV continues to fare well in terms of practicality, when it comes to the basics. But, the Nexon had some ergonomic issues in its pre-facelift version, which unfortunately have been carried forward. The first one is that there are no usable cupholders in the front, the charging ports are placed behind the gear knob which makes them hard to access, the door pockets at the rear are still shallow, and the issue of the cramped footwell is still persistent. 

Also Read: 7 Features Tata Nexon Facelift Gets Over The Kia Sonet

Apart from these issues, the Nexon is a well-equipped car with enough practicality for your daily commutes.

Price & Rivals

The new Tata Nexon EV is priced from Rs 14.74 lakh to Rs 19.94 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom) and is a direct rival to the Mahindra XUV400. It can also be considered an affordable alternative to the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric.

Read More on : Tata Nexon EV Automatic