Tata Nexon

The Nexon’s styling is as modern as it gets with its sleek connected LED lighting elements front and back, and dynamic turn indicators. 

It only gets 16-inch wheels throughout its lineup. Lower variants get wheel covers, higher variants get proper alloys with aero inserts, while Dark edition variants get all-black 5-spoke alloys.

For a clean look, the rear wiper has been integrated cleverly into the roof-mounted spoiler, making it look non-existent.

• I liked the Nexon’s straightforward dashboard design. Quality is acceptable, but fit and finish could have been better. A few panels are finished in gloss black which are prone to scratches.

• The storage spaces in the Nexon’s cabin left me wanting for more. No space in the central area, no usable cup holder and no real space to store the phone make it inconvenient. 

Passenger comfort

• The seats are comfortable thanks to soft cushioning and ample side support. 

• A six-footer can sit comfortably in the rear seat. Head and footroom are sufficient too.

• I recommend using the Nexon as a four-seater since a headrest for the middle passenger is missing and knee and foot room is restricted by a raised central tunnel.

Features

Here’s a quick look at the highlight features of the Tata Nexon: 

Which variant of Tata Nexon is value for money? 

• Those on a tight budget can consider the Smart+ or Pure+ variants. 

• 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.

The Nexon gets a 5-star safety rating from BharatNCAP. This is expected considering 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control and ISOFIX child seat mounts are offered as standard on all variants.

• With 382-litres of storage, the Nexon’s boot can accommodate one big, medium and small suitcase easily. 

• With 60:40 split in the rear seats, you can also store bigger luggage if required.

1.2-litre Turbo Petrol

• The Nexon’s turbo-petrol engine is easy to use in the city. It takes some time to pick up speeds from really low RPM, but once it gets going, all overtakes are easy.

• If you are considering automatics, I would recommend picking the dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) instead of the AMT for its smoothness. 

• Highway performance is satisfactory, it reaches triple digit speeds with ease, and is happy to sit and cruise between 100-120kmph.

• You can expect a fuel efficiency of 12-17kmpl from the Nexon petrol, depending on conditions. 

1.5-litre Diesel

• Clutch weight might feel tiring for those driving in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

• There’s adequate performance for relaxed highway usage.

• You can expect a mileage of 14-20kmpl from the Nexon diesel, making it a better choice for those with high usage. 

• The ride comfort is one of Nexon’s big qualities whether inside the city or on the highway.

• Some side-to-side movement can be felt on really bad roads, but it is never uncomfortable.

• I found the steering to be light enough at city speeds. Weight is adequate on the highway which gives confidence.

Is the Tata Nexon right for you?

The Tata Nexon should definitely be on the shortlist if you are in the market for a small SUV that looks chic inside-out, offers premium features and a comfortable space. If only Tata would iron out those tech glitches and improve the cabin ergonomics, then Nexon would be an unbeatable package.

Other Cars To Consider Instead Of The Tata Nexon

Kia Sonet

Reasons to consider

• Glitch-free tech package

• Gets Level-1 ADAS for autonomous driving

• Offers a NA petrol engine option for people wanting a relaxed drive in the city

Reasons to ignore

• No CNG option

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

• Top-spec variant is considerably more affordable

• Offers a NA petrol engine option

• Glitch-free tech package

• Boasts Level-1 ADAS tech

Reasons to ignore

• Misses out on a few premium features

• No CNG option