The Unfolding Saga of the Tata Nexon: A Defining Force in India’s SUV Landscape

The Tata Nexon, a name synonymous with safety, style, and segment-defining innovation, has carved an indelible mark in the fiercely competitive Indian automotive market. Launched in 2017, this subcompact SUV has not only been a cornerstone of Tata Motors’ revival but has also consistently challenged established norms, particularly in the realm of vehicle safety and electric mobility. This article delves into the comprehensive journey of the Tata Nexon, exploring its genesis, evolution across multiple models and trim levels, its pioneering role in electrification, and its future trajectory.

A Brief History and Genesis: The Impact of Design

The journey of the Tata Nexon began long before its market debut. It was first showcased as a concept at the Auto Expo 2014, captivating audiences with its futuristic design and compact yet muscular stance. Born from Tata Motors’ “Impact Design” philosophy, which aimed to create visually striking and contemporary vehicles, the Nexon promised a fresh take on the burgeoning compact SUV segment.

When it finally hit the showrooms in September 2017, the production-spec Nexon lived up to its concept’s promise. It immediately stood out with its coupé-like silhouette, contrasting roof, and tri-arrow design elements. More than just aesthetics, the Nexon was engineered on Tata Motors’ X1 platform, which also underpinned the Zest and Bolt, but heavily modified to suit its SUV aspirations and, crucially, to enhance crashworthiness.

The Inaugural Chapter: 2017 – 2020 (Pre-Facelift)

The first iteration of the Tata Nexon was powered by two engine options:

• 1.2-litre Revotron Turbo-Petrol: A 3-cylinder unit producing 110 PS and 170 Nm of torque.
• 1.5-litre Revotorq Turbo-Diesel: A 4-cylinder unit, segment-first at the time, generating 110 PS and 260 Nm of torque.

Both engines were initially offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. In 2018, Tata Motors introduced the 6-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) for both petrol and diesel variants, significantly enhancing its appeal for urban commuters.

A pivotal moment for the pre-facelift Nexon, and indeed the Indian auto industry, came in 2018 when it achieved a four-star safety rating from Global NCAP. This was a significant accomplishment for an Indian-made car and set the stage for further safety enhancements. Later, in December 2018, the Nexon became the first Indian-made car to achieve a full five-star adult occupant safety rating from Global NCAP, a landmark achievement that fundamentally altered public perception of Indian automotive safety standards.

Trim Levels (2017-2020 Pre-Facelift):

The initial trim structure was straightforward, offering a balanced mix of features across the range:

• XE: The base model, offering essential features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, power windows, and multi-drive modes.
• XM: Added features like remote central locking, Harman ConnectNext infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, and electrically adjustable ORVMs.
• XT: Further included automatic climate control, projector headlamps, LED DRLs, rear AC vents, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
• XZ: Introduced features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice commands, and a reverse parking camera.
• XZ+: The top-end variant, offering features like a dual-tone roof, push-button start/stop, rear armrest, 60:40 split rear seats, and a smart key.
• XZA+: Introduced the AMT option for the top-end variant.

Special editions like the KRAZ and KRAZ+ were also introduced during this period, offering cosmetic enhancements like neon green accents and black alloy wheels.

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The First Major Refresh: 2020 – 2023 (Facelift 1)

As the automotive industry transitioned to Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms and competition intensified, Tata Motors introduced a significant facelift for the Nexon in January 2020. This update was more than just cosmetic; it significantly enhanced the vehicle’s appeal, technology, and safety credentials.

Design and Interior: The 2020 Nexon adopted Tata’s “Impact Design 2.0” philosophy, aligning its aesthetics with newer models like the Altroz and Harrier. It featured a bolder front fascia with redesigned headlamps, a new grille, revised bumpers, and updated taillamps with a new LED signature. The interior also received subtle upgrades, including new upholstery, a refreshed steering wheel, and a larger 7-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system with connected car features (iRA).

Engines and Transmissions (BS6 compliant):

• 1.2-litre Revotron Turbo-Petrol: Updated for BS6, still producing 120 PS (a slight increase) and 170 Nm.
• 1.5-litre Revotorq Turbo-Diesel: Updated for BS6, power remained at 110 PS, but torque was slightly reduced to 260 Nm. This engine was discontinued in 2023 due to stricter RDE norms.

Both engines continued to be offered with 6-speed manual and 6-speed AMT options.

Safety Redefined: Building on its previous success, the 2020 Nexon reiterated its commitment to safety by becoming the first Indian car to score a constant five-star rating for adult occupant protection under the stricter, updated Global NCAP protocols. This consistent performance became a key selling point and a benchmark for its segment.

Trim Levels (2020-2023 Facelift 1):

The facelift brought a more comprehensive trim structure, often adding ‘S’ for sunroof variants and ‘O’ for optional packages with connected car tech:

• XE: Base variant.
• XM: Added features like steering-mounted controls, power windows (front & rear), and a 3.5-inch infotainment system.
• XM(S): Introduced an electric sunroof to the XM variant.
• XT: Included automatic climate control, push-button start/stop, rear AC vents, and 16-inch steel wheels.
• XT+(P): (Later renamed) Offered projector headlamps, LED DRLs, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment.
• XZ: Stepped up with a rear-view camera, rear wiper/washer, 16-inch alloy wheels.
• XZ+: Top-end variant with a 7-inch touchscreen (Android Auto/Apple CarPlay), flat-bottom steering wheel, connected car tech (iRA), dual-tone roof.
• XZ+(S): Added electric sunroof to XZ+ features.
• XZA+: AMT version of XZ+.
• XZA+(S): AMT with sunroof.
• XZ+(HS) / XZA+(HS): (Later addition) Introduced ventilated front seats, air purifier, auto-dimming IRVM.
• Dark Edition: Introduced in 2021, featuring an all-black exterior and interior theme. Available on select XZ+ and XZA+ variants.
• Jet Edition: Launched in 2022, offering a Starlight exterior color with black roof, bronze inserts, and special interior trim.
• Kaziranga Edition: Limited edition with Grassland Beige exterior, dual-tone roof, and unique badges.

The Electric Pioneer: Tata Nexon EV (2020 – Present)

Alongside the ICE facelift in 2020, Tata Motors made history by launching the Nexon EV, India’s first mass-market electric SUV. This move cemented Tata’s leadership in the nascent EV segment.

Nexon EV (Original, 2020-2022): It featured a 30.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering an ARAI-certified range of 312 km. The electric motor produced 129 PS and 245 Nm of torque. Trims included XM, XZ+, and XZ+ Lux.

Nexon EV Prime (2022-2023): An update that introduced features like cruise control, regenerative braking, i-TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), and smartwatch connectivity as standard across the range. The battery and range remained the same.

Nexon EV Max (2022-2023): A significantly upgraded version launched concurrently with the Prime. It featured a larger 40.5 kWh battery pack, boosting the ARAI-certified range to 437 km. The motor output increased to 143 PS and 250 Nm. It also introduced multi-mode regen, an electronic parking brake, ventilated seats, and a more powerful 7.2 kW AC fast charger option (compared to 3.3 kW standard). Trims included XZ+ Lux and XZ+ Lux Fast Charger (7.2 kW).

The Radical Evolution: 2023 – Present (Facelift 2)

September 2023 marked another monumental refresh for the Tata Nexon, arguably its most comprehensive overhaul yet. This update completely transformed the vehicle, inside and out, integrating the lessons learned and catering to the evolving demands of the Indian consumer.

Design and Interior: The 2023 Nexon adopted Tata’s bold new design language, first seen on concepts like the Curvv and Sierra EV. It features a striking new front fascia with a full-width LED DRL signature, vertically stacked headlamps, and a much sharper, more aggressive bumper. The rear boasts a connected LED taillamp bar, giving it a truly modern and upmarket appearance.

The interior received an even more radical transformation. The dashboard is entirely new, featuring a sleek, layered design. Key highlights include:

• A new 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system (depending on variant) with a new UI, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
• A fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster that can display navigation maps.
• A touch-enabled climate control panel with haptic feedback.
• A new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo.
• Ventilated front seats, wireless charger, 360-degree camera, and front parking sensors.

Engines and Transmissions: The petrol engine remained the same:

• 1.2-litre Revotron Turbo-Petrol: Still producing 120 PS and 170 Nm.
• The diesel engine (1.5-litre Revotorq) was discontinued due to RDE norms. Tata Motors indicated it might return later with updates, but for now, the Nexon is primarily petrol-powered.

A major transmission update was the introduction of a new 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), offered alongside the existing 6-speed manual and 6-speed AMT (now branded as DCA). The DCT offers a significantly smoother and more refined driving experience.

Safety and Technology: The 2023 Nexon continues to uphold its five-star Global NCAP safety rating (though specific results for the new model are eagerly awaited, Tata assures it adheres to the same stringent safety standards). It also introduced features like 6 airbags as standard across all variants, electronic stability program (ESP), and hill hold assist. Certain higher variants also offer a 360-degree camera and front parking sensors, enhancing active safety.

Trim Levels (2023 Facelift 2):

The 2023 facelift introduced an entirely new, segment-first trim nomenclature, simplifying the hierarchy and making it easier for customers to understand value propositions:

• Smart (Base): Focuses on core safety and essential features.
• Pure (Value): Adds more convenience and comfort features.
• Creative (Feature-rich): Introduces premium tech and design elements.
• Fearless (Top-spec): Offers the complete package with all advanced features and unique aesthetics.

These trims are further differentiated by additional suffixes like ‘+’, ‘S’, and ‘P’ to denote option packs (e.g., Fearless+ S P). For the first time, each trim comes with a distinct visual identity, including different alloy wheel designs and interior colour schemes.

Nexon EV Facelift (2023): The Nexon EV also received the same radical overhaul, aligning its design and interior with the ICE facelift. It retained the two battery options:

• Medium Range (MR): 30 kWh battery, 325 km ARAI range, 129 PS motor. Available in Creative+ and Empowered+ trims.
• Long Range (LR): 40.5 kWh battery, 465 km ARAI range, 145 PS motor. Available in Empowered+ and Empowered+ LR trims. It introduced new features like V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) and V2V (Vehicle-to-Vehicle) charging capabilities, a more advanced infotainment system, and the new digital cluster.

Under the Hood: Engine and Transmission Diversity

The Nexon’s powertrain strategy has evolved to offer a compelling mix:

• 1.2-litre Revotron Turbo-Petrol: The consistent workhorse, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency. It has seen power bumps and refinement over the years.
• 1.5-litre Revotorq Turbo-Diesel: A segment standout for its torque and drivability, though currently on hiatus.
• Electric Powertrain: Offering varying battery sizes (30 kWh to 40.5 kWh) and motor outputs (129 PS to 145 PS), catering to different range and performance needs.

Transmission options have also expanded from a basic manual to include AMT, and now a sophisticated 7-speed DCT, providing choices for every driving preference.

Safety: The Unwavering Core Differentiator

From its initial 4-star rating to its consistent 5-star performance, the Tata Nexon has made safety its non-negotiable principle. It’s built with high-strength steel, equipped with dual airbags (now 6 airbags as standard in the 2023 model), ABS with EBD, ESP, traction control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. This commitment to occupant protection has not only garnered accolades but has also fostered immense trust among Indian car buyers.

Market Position, Competition, and Unique Selling Propositions

The Tata Nexon operates in the cut-throat sub-4 meter compact SUV segment, competing with popular models like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV300, and Nissan Magnite. Its unique selling propositions include:

• Pioneering Safety: The 5-star GNCAP rating has been its strongest card.
• Bold Design: Its distinctive styling has always helped it stand out.
• Feature-Rich Offering: With each update, Tata has packed the Nexon with segment-first and segment-leading features.
• Ride and Handling: Generally praised for its comfortable ride quality, especially over broken Indian roads, and confident handling.
• Electric Leadership: The Nexon EV’s dominance has given Tata an undisputed lead in India’s personal EV space.
• “Made in India, for India”: Designed and engineered to tackle Indian road conditions and consumer preferences.

Future Outlook

The future of the Tata Nexon looks promising and dynamic. Building on its success, we can expect:

• Further Powertrain Diversification: While the diesel is currently absent, its return with RDE compliance is plausible. Hybrid options could also be explored, though Tata’s primary focus remains on EVs. Alternative fuels like CNG could also be a possibility for specific variants.
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): With increasing competition and the push for active safety, the introduction of ADAS Level 1 or Level 2 features (like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning) in future iterations is highly likely.
• Enhanced Connectivity and Digitalization: Expect more sophisticated infotainment systems, over-the-air updates, and deeper integration of smart features.
• Material and Feature Upgrades: As the market matures, Tata might introduce more premium interior materials and comfort features to further elevate the Nexon’s positioning.
• Battery Technology Advancements for Nexon EV: Continuously improving battery density, faster charging speeds, and potentially solid-state battery technology in the long term for even greater range and efficiency.
• Potential for a new generation: While the 2023 model is a major facelift, a completely new generation built on a more advanced platform (possibly an electrified-native architecture) could emerge in the latter half of the decade, allowing for greater design freedom and technological integration.

Conclusion

The Tata Nexon’s journey from a concept car to a segment-defining force has been nothing short of remarkable. It has consistently pushed boundaries, whether in design, safety, feature integration, or pioneering electric mobility. Its evolution, marked by strategic facelifts and a relentless pursuit of improvement, reflects Tata Motors’ ambition to deliver world-class vehicles tailored for the Indian landscape. As it continues to adapt to changing market dynamics and technological advancements, the Nexon is poised to remain a pivotal player, shaping the future of compact SUVs and electric vehicles in India for years to come.