Tata Nexon EV

• I like how the EV builds on the Nexon’s already modern design with its connected lighting elements. The animations within the LED light bars look really cool at night.

• The aerodynamic 16-inch alloy wheels look futuristic. However, Tata could have opted for a different design for the EV.

• I like how the rear wipers have been cleanly hidden underneath the roof-mounted spoiler.

• The Nexon EV’s minimalistic cabin design looks premium. Quality is acceptable, but finish could’ve been better in places as panels in gloss black are a scratch and dust magnet.

• I like the option of having variant- specific interior colour themes, which stand out from the competition.

• The front seats are wide and comfortable, but the seatback can feel a little short for those around or above 6 feet tall.

• With batteries in the floor, rear occupants sit taller than the front passengers. Apart from the compromised underthigh support, space is adequate even for tall people.

• I found it’s best to seat 2 people in the Nexon EV’s second row for utmost comfort.

• The storage spaces in the Nexon EV are inconvenient. Basics like door pockets, glovebox and cup holders in rear armrest are covered, but there’s no usable cup holder for the front passengers. The wireless charging pad fails to fit anything bigger than a standard-sized phone.

Features

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

• The Tata Nexon EV has received a full five star rating from Bharat NCAP.

• Safety features are abundant with a host of standard equipment and premium features like auto headlights, rain sensing wipers, fog lamps with cornering function, rear disk brakes and electronic parking brake with auto hold.

• 6 airbags, rear parking camera, and electronic stability program are offered as standard.

• Nexon EV’s 350-litre boot space is enough for a full suitcase set (small, medium and large). 

• I found using smaller suitcases/bags helps utilize the boot better.

• Rear seats have a 60:40 split, so you can keep more luggage or furniture if needed.

30kWh

• The Nexon EV is super easy to drive. The car crawls smoothly in traffic, the throttle doesn’t feel too urgent, and it won’t be scary for a new driver

• With instant performance, it is quick enough for all your city and highway drives.

• Real world range is around 210km, so the medium range model is best suited for city use only.

• Occasional roadtrips are possible, thanks to 50kW DC fast charging capability, which can top up the battery from 10% to 80% in 40 minutes.

• Brake energy regeneration is configurable via paddle shifters. Can use level 2 or level 3 in heavy city traffic. For smooth highways, level 1 or level 2 suffices. 

45kWh

• With additional power over the medium range, the Nexon EV is slightly quicker with the bigger battery pack.

• Adds more range over the smaller battery, critical for people wanting to intercity or long distance roadtrips. Helps with range anxiety too.

• 60kW DC fast charging capability can top up a range of more than 150kms in just 30 minutes.

• I would pick the bigger 45kWh battery of the Nexon EV for its added performance, but mainly for the additional range.

•  I couldn’t find a way to unsettle the Nexon EV’s suspension. It’s so good that it absorbs all potholes and speedbreakers easily without causing any movement in the cabin.

• The car remains stable even at high speeds.

• While it remains stable around a fast corner, you do get a noticeable body roll and it’s best to avoid a sudden direction change at high speeds.

Which variant of Tata Nexon EV is value for money? 

• If you’re on a budget and need an EV primarily for city usage, the Empowered medium range variant will be the most value for money option.

• If you need that added range of the bigger battery, the Fearless 45 variant covers all functional and a few premium features at an acceptable price.

Is the Tata Nexon EV right for you?

The Nexon EV seems like the perfect electric SUV for a small family with its features, comfort and performance. The medium range (30kWh) model is good for city use, while the bigger battery (45kWh) gives you the extra range needed for those long roadtrips. Only if the tech package works without glitches, recommending the Nexon EV would be even easier.

Other cars to consider instead of the Tata Nexon

MG Windsor

Reasons to consider

• Bigger car

• Lounge-like rear seats

• More practical

• Lifetime battery warranty for first owner

Reasons to ignore

• Limited range

• Ride not as comfortable

Mahindra XUV400

Reasons to consider

• Better second row experience

• More fun to drive

Reasons to ignore

• Looks dated inside and out

• Misses out on a few features