2023 Tata Nexon review, first drive

Tata launched the Tata Nexon in 2017 and quite instantly it became a hit. People loved the offbeat styling of this compact SUV. Over the years the Tata Nexon also earned the accolade of being a “5 Star” car which worked wonders for the brand. The Nexon has also had its fair share of design upgrades which kept it up-to-date. Now though, Tata Motors has given the Nexon a rather substantial mid-life facelift. We got up close and personal with the 2023 Tata Nexon and here is what it offers.

Tata Nexon: Design upgrades

The first thing that strikes the chord is how radical this design has become. The LED DRL and the light panel up front endow a degree of sleekness to the Nexon now. Adding to it is a unique feature where the lights glow in a pattern that welcomes you or bids goodbye to the driver. This happens both upfront and at the rear. The bumper up front has been redesigned as well and we like the fact that the projector lights have dedicated panels and are not a big visual. In profile, though not much has changed and the Nexon continues to impress with its sporty design and rather practical 208mm of ground clearance. The rear end much like the front, comes with sporty LED light panels which sure look cool. We also liked the idea of tucking in the rear wash and wipe system underneath the rear spoiler. Just gives the vehicle a cleaner look.

Tata Nexon: Inside is where the real changes are

Step inside and the Nexon looks like a brand new vehicle. While we have seen two-tone interiors earlier, Tata Motors has really been brave here with most of the seats and upholstery draped in purple matching the exterior colour. The rest of it is black. The other major change comes in the form of the 10.25in infotainment system. The unit offers a high definition output which is very easy to read. The unit also houses a substantially powerful Harman audio system which plays via JBL speakers. The unit also beams the feed from the 360 degree camera and even the blind spot camera which comes alive on flicking the left indicator. The instrument panel is also a work of art being a large 10.25in unit as well. There is a multitude of displays that the driver can choose and he or she can also beam maps from Apple Car Play or Android Auto on the instrument panel. A very handy feature to have. The Nexon now also responds to voice commands and funnily enough it understands hinglish quite well. The new Nexon also comes with upgraded seats which now feature the ventilation function. The ventilation function also works a treat and keeps the occupants comfortable even on 37-degree summer days. Last, but not the least, the Nexon also gets wireless charging. The only place where we feel the Nexon needs an upgrade is the rear seat. While the seats are comfortable and there even is an armrest with cupholders integrated within, the overall rear cabin feels a bit dark. On the upside though, the quality levels have gone up substantially and that is exactly what the doctor had ordered.

Tata Nexon: Petrol, Diesel, DCA, MT and more options to choose from

The new Nexon comes with the choice of a 1.2-litre turbocharged Revotron petrol engine and the 1.5-litre Revotorq turbo diesel engine. Gearbox options include a 6-speed MT/AMT and 7-speed DCA. While the petrol engine churns out 118bhp and 170Nm of torque, the diesel is tuned to offer 113bhp and 260Nm of torque. There are three driving modes, which include Eco, City and Sport. Needless to say, the Nexon will also be available in EV guise soon after the launch of the ICE counterpart. So stay tuned for that as well.

Tata Nexon: How is it to drive?

The Tata Nexon’s turbo petrol motor starts up a bit rough, but the moment you press the accelerator, the vibes are controlled immediately. Generally, turbo petrols are a sign of sporty credentials, but the Nexon is not like that. Power delivery is rather linear and that boost associated with turbos is not there. This means that the Nexon remains smooth across its rev range. Once it is in ‘Cruise’ mode, the Nexon’s motor remains calm and composed. Tata Motors has also provided three drive modes and all three of them have their unique characteristics. The differences across the modes are also prominent. Needless to say, ‘Sport’ was our choice most of the time. The new DCA gearbox is also a smooth operator shifting smoothly through the gears. Step on the accelerator and the downshifts happen quick, but not fast. Nevertheless, the DCA is sure the best gearbox to have from the Nexon’s pallet.

When it comes to ride quality, the Nexon, much like other Tata Motor cars impresses. The system is well-calibrated to make sure ruts and bumps are taken care of. Sure there is a bit of suspension noise, but nothing substantial to complain about. We also loved the way the Nexon takes on corners. The SUV remains well planted and the responsive steering adds to the fun factor.

Tata Nexon: Verdict

The Nexon was always a good product by Tata Motors. It looked good, offered enough space and features and at the same time was available in multiple powertrain combinations. Now though, things have gotten even better. But what truly makes a difference is the fact that the quality levels and fit and finish have become better too. Overall then, the Tata Nexon is ready to take on the competition rather well.