In a groundbreaking move that’s set to redefine the compact SUV segment, Tata Motors has unveiled its latest offering – the Tata Nexon CNG.
Launched on September 25, 2024, this innovative vehicle marks a significant milestone as India’s first turbocharged petrol CNG SUV. Let’s delve into the details of this game-changing automobile that’s creating waves in the automotive industry.
The Tata Nexon CNG isn’t just another addition to the burgeoning CNG vehicle market; it’s a revolutionary step forward.
By combining a turbocharged petrol engine with CNG capability, Tata Motors has addressed one of the most significant concerns associated with CNG vehicles – performance.
At the heart of the Nexon CNG lies a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. This powerhouse delivers impressive performance figures:
- Petrol Mode: 118bhp and 170Nm of torque
- CNG Mode: 99bhp and 170Nm of torque
The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, offering a perfect balance between power and efficiency.
This innovative powertrain makes the Nexon CNG the first turbo-charged SUV in India to run on CNG, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
Tata Motors has implemented a twin-cylinder i-CNG arrangement, featuring two 30-litre cylinders placed beneath the boot floor.
This clever engineering solution addresses another common issue with CNG vehicles – compromised boot space. Unlike single-cylinder units that often eat into cargo area, the Nexon CNG maintains an adequate boot capacity of 321 litres.
Advanced ECU and Auto-Switch Feature
The Nexon CNG comes equipped with an advanced ECU (Engine Control Unit) and an auto-switch feature between fuels. This technology enables:
- Direct start in CNG mode
- Seamless switching between petrol and CNG
- Automatic switch to petrol mode in case of a gas leak
These features not only enhance convenience but also prioritize safety, making the Nexon CNG a reliable choice for daily commutes and long journeys alike.
Tata Motors has ensured that the Nexon CNG caters to a wide range of customers by offering it in eight variants:
- Smart (O): Rs. 8.99 lakh
- Smart+: Rs. 9.69 lakh
- Smart+ S: Rs. 9.99 lakh
- Pure: Rs. 10.69 lakh
- Pure S: Rs. 10.99 lakh
- Creative: Rs. 11.69 lakh
- Creative+: Rs. 12.19 lakh
- Fearless+ PS: Rs. 14.59 lakh
(All prices are ex-showroom)
This strategic pricing positions the Nexon CNG competitively in the market, making it an attractive option for consumers looking to transition to cleaner fuel alternatives without compromising on features or performance.
The Nexon CNG doesn’t just impress under the hood; its interior is equally noteworthy. The top-spec version boasts a range of premium features that elevate the driving experience:
- Large panoramic sunroof (a first for Nexon in any fuel type)
- 10.25-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with navigation support
- Cooled front seats
- Wireless phone charger
- Air purifier
- 360-degree surround camera with blind spot monitor
- Eight-speaker sound system
These features, combined with the spacious interior typical of the Nexon, ensure that comfort and convenience are not compromised in the pursuit of eco-friendly transportation.
Tata Motors has not skimped on safety features in the Nexon CNG. The vehicle comes equipped with:
- Six airbags
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- ABS with EBD
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Auto-dimming IRVM
- Rear defogger
Additionally, the CNG-specific safety features include:
- Micro switch to turn off the ignition in case of gas leakage
- Auto-switch to petrol mode if a gas leak is detected
These comprehensive safety measures underscore Tata’s commitment to passenger protection, a crucial factor in the CNG vehicle segment.
Visually, the Nexon CNG maintains the sleek and modern design language of its petrol and diesel counterparts.
The only distinguishing external feature is the subtle i-CNG badging on the boot lid. This design continuity ensures that choosing the eco-friendly CNG option doesn’t come at the cost of style.
Available in a range of attractive colors including Creative Ocean, Pristine White, Flame Red, and Daytona Grey, the Nexon CNG offers plenty of choices for the style-conscious buyer.
The launch of the Nexon CNG is a strategic move by Tata Motors to capitalize on the growing demand for CNG vehicles in India.
As fuel prices continue to fluctuate and environmental concerns gain prominence, CNG vehicles are becoming increasingly popular among cost-conscious and eco-aware consumers.
In the compact SUV segment, the Nexon CNG’s primary competitor is the Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG.
However, with its turbocharged engine and premium features, the Nexon CNG positions itself as a more upmarket offering.
It also indirectly competes with other CNG vehicles in the market, setting a new standard for performance and features in the CNG segment.
While official ARAI figures are yet to be released, the Nexon CNG is expected to offer significant improvements in terms of emissions and fuel efficiency compared to its petrol counterpart.
CNG, being a cleaner-burning fuel, typically results in lower carbon emissions and reduced running costs.
The dual-fuel capability also addresses range anxiety, a common concern with alternative fuel vehicles.
Drivers can switch to petrol when CNG isn’t available, ensuring uninterrupted journeys.
The introduction of the Nexon CNG is likely to have far-reaching effects on the Indian automotive market:
- It may encourage other manufacturers to explore turbocharged CNG options, potentially leading to a new category of high-performance CNG vehicles.
- The premium features offered in a CNG vehicle could raise consumer expectations, pushing the entire segment towards more feature-rich offerings.
- It could accelerate the adoption of CNG vehicles among SUV buyers who were previously hesitant due to performance concerns.
Tata Nexon CNG : A Game-Changer in the Making
The Tata Nexon CNG represents more than just a new model; it’s a bold statement about the future of automotive technology in India.
By successfully marrying the performance of a turbocharged engine with the eco-friendly and cost-effective benefits of CNG, Tata Motors has created a vehicle that addresses multiple consumer needs without significant compromises.
As India continues its push towards cleaner mobility solutions, vehicles like the Nexon CNG play a crucial role.
They offer a bridge between conventional fossil fuel vehicles and fully electric options, providing a practical solution for consumers who want to reduce their carbon footprint but are not yet ready for the leap to electric vehicles.
The success of the Nexon CNG could pave the way for more innovative fuel solutions in the Indian market, potentially reshaping the automotive landscape in the years to come.
As the first of its kind, it sets a high bar for performance, features, and eco-friendliness in the CNG vehicle segment.
With its competitive pricing, impressive feature list, and groundbreaking powertrain, the Tata Nexon CNG is poised to make a significant impact in the Indian automotive market.
It’s not just a new model; it’s a glimpse into the future of sustainable mobility in India.