Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts and future car owners! Are you on the hunt for a new car in India? We know the drill. It's not just about picking a colour you like. You're probably juggling a few big questions: How much will it cost me upfront? Is it safe enough for my family? What about monthly fuel bills and maintenance? Does it have all the cool new features I've been eyeing? And crucially, will the company's service be reliable in the long run?

Well, if these questions sound familiar, then you're in the right place! Today, we're taking a deep dive into a car that aims to tick all these boxes and more: the new Tata Nexon Smart Plus CNG. Tata Motors has been making waves with its safe and feature-packed cars, and their foray into the CNG segment with the Nexon is certainly an exciting development. Let's find out if this CNG compact SUV could be your next perfect ride.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The heart of the Tata Nexon CNG is its robust 1.2-litre Revotron Bi-Fuel engine. This engine is designed to run seamlessly on both petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG), offering you flexibility and efficiency.

• Engine Type: 1.2L Turbocharged Revotron Bi-Fuel
• Maximum Power (Petrol): Approx. 118 bhp (120 PS) at 5500 rpm
• Maximum Torque (Petrol): Approx. 170 Nm at 1750-4000 rpm
• Maximum Power (CNG): Approx. 73.5 bhp (73.5 PS) at 6000 rpm
• Maximum Torque (CNG): Approx. 103 Nm at 3250 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual (CNG variant is currently only available with a manual gearbox)

Design Overview

The Tata Nexon recently received a significant facelift, making it look even more striking and modern.

• Exterior: The updated Nexon boasts a sharper, more aggressive front fascia with new LED DRLs and headlamp designs. The strong SUV stance, prominent wheel arches, and connected LED tail lamps (in higher variants) give it a premium and futuristic appeal. It stands out in the crowd.
• Interior: Step inside, and you're greeted by a clean, modern, and spacious cabin. The refreshed dashboard design, a new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo, and quality materials enhance the overall feel. What's truly innovative for the Nexon CNG is the twin-cylinder CNG setup placed under the boot floor, which cleverly frees up a good amount of boot space, a common challenge for CNG cars.

Key Features

The Tata Nexon is known for being feature-packed, and the CNG version continues this trend, offering a mix of convenience and technology. While the 'Smart Plus' trim focuses on essential value, higher variants of the Nexon CNG come loaded with:

• Large Infotainment Screen: Available in 7-inch or a larger 10.25-inch floating touchscreen display.
• Connectivity: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (wireless in higher trims).
• Automatic Climate Control: For a comfortable cabin environment.
• Voice-assisted Electric Sunroof: A popular feature for many buyers (available in higher variants).
• 360-degree Camera: Making parking and manoeuvring much easier (available in higher variants).
• Wireless Charging: For hassle-free smartphone charging (available in higher variants).
• Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital driver's display.
• Cooled Glove Box

What is the Ground Clearance of Tata Nexon CNG?

• The Tata Nexon CNG offers a healthy 208 mm of unladen ground clearance, which is excellent for tackling Indian roads with ease.

What is the Boot Space of Tata Nexon CNG?

• Thanks to Tata's innovative twin-cylinder CNG technology, the Nexon CNG offers around 230 litres of boot space. This is a significant improvement over traditional single-cylinder CNG setups, allowing you to carry a decent amount of luggage.

What are the Dimensions of Tata Nexon CNG?

• Length: 3995 mm
• Width: 1811 mm
• Height: 1606 mm
• Wheelbase: 2498 mm

Powertrain Options

The Tata Nexon is one of the most versatile compact SUVs when it comes to powertrain choices:

• 1.2L Turbo Petrol (available with Manual, AMT, and DCT automatic transmissions)
• 1.5L Diesel (available with Manual and AMT transmissions)
• 1.2L CNG (available only with a 5-speed Manual transmission)

Safety Features

Safety is a non-negotiable for Tata Motors, and the Nexon is a prime example. The Nexon CNG comes equipped with a host of safety features, many of which are standard across variants.

• 6 Airbags (standard)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control (TC)
• Hill Hold Control (HHC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• Reverse Camera (variant dependent)

NCAP Rating Table

The Tata Nexon has set benchmarks for safety in the Indian market.

Rivals of Tata Nexon Smart Plus CNG

In the highly competitive compact SUV segment, especially the CNG SUV space, the Tata Nexon CNG goes head-to-head with some strong contenders:

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG
• Maruti Suzuki Fronx CNG
• Hyundai Venue (Though not available in CNG, it's a direct rival in the compact SUV segment)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages

• Unmatched Safety: With its 5-star Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP ratings, the Nexon is one of the safest cars you can buy in India. Peace of mind guaranteed.
• Excellent Fuel Efficiency: Running on CNG means significantly lower running costs, making it a truly fuel-efficient CNG car for daily commutes.
• Innovative Twin-Cylinder CNG Tech: No more sacrificing all your boot space! This clever design is a huge practical advantage.
• Modern and Eye-Catching Design: The recent facelift has made the Nexon even more appealing, giving it a premium road presence.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Even the 'Smart Plus' range offers essential features, while higher variants provide a premium experience with advanced tech.
• Strong Build Quality: Tata cars are known for their robust build, and the Nexon is no exception, instilling confidence.
• Widespread Service Network: Tata Motors has a strong service presence across India, ensuring easy access to service and parts.

Disadvantages

• CNG Performance: While adequate for city driving, the power output in CNG mode is noticeably lower than petrol, especially on highways or during quick overtakes.
• Manual Transmission Only: For those who prefer the convenience of an automatic, the CNG variant is currently only available with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
• Refuelling Time: CNG refuelling can take longer than petrol/diesel and availability might be an issue in some remote areas.
• Higher Initial Cost: CNG variants typically cost more upfront than their petrol counterparts, though this is usually offset by lower running costs over time.

Conclusion

The Tata Nexon Smart Plus CNG emerges as a highly compelling option for Indian car buyers who prioritize safety, budget-friendly running costs, and a modern, feature-loaded package. It skillfully blends the robust appeal of a compact SUV with the economic benefits of CNG, all wrapped in a 'smart and plus' value proposition from a trusted brand like Tata.

While the performance in CNG mode might be a slight compromise for enthusiasts, its unparalleled safety rating, intelligent boot space solution, and attractive design make it a standout choice. If you're looking for a reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient SUV that won't break the bank on daily commutes, the Tata Nexon CNG deserves a top spot on your shortlist. We highly recommend you take it for a test drive to experience its capabilities firsthand!