Tata Nexon Buyer’s Guide: Petrol, Diesel, EV, or CNG – Which Powertrain Is Right For You?

If you are planning to buy a Tata Nexon, which powertrain is a better option for you? Go through this buyer’s guide to find out the differences, pros and cons, and Petrol, Diesel, EV, and CNG powertrain suitability for drivers.

The Tata Nexon isn’t just a car; it’s a phenomenon on Indian roads. Since its inception, this compact SUV has consistently redefined benchmarks, securing its position as one of the country’s best-selling vehicles. But what truly sets the Nexon apart in a crowded market isn’t just its striking design, 5-star GNCAP safety rating, or feature-rich cabin – it’s the unparalleled choice of powertrains.

In a move no other manufacturer has replicated, Tata Motors offers the Nexon with four distinct propulsion systems: conventional Petrol, torque-rich Diesel, cutting-edge Electric (EV), and the eco-friendly iCNG. This incredible versatility ensures there’s a Nexon for virtually every kind of buyer and every driving need.

But with so many compelling options, the question arises: Which Tata Nexon powertrain is the perfect match for you? As your trusted automotive experts at CarBikeIndia.com, we’re here to break down each variant, helping you navigate the choices and make an informed decision.

The Unbeatable Tata Nexon: India’s Compact SUV King

Before we dive into the powertrains, let’s quickly recap why the Nexon has earned its crown. Its bold, futuristic design, especially after the latest facelift, turns heads. Inside, the cabin is modern, comfortable, and packed with tech features like a large touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, ventilated seats, and more. But above all, the Nexon’s commitment to safety, evidenced by its consistent 5-star GNCAP ratings, provides unmatched peace of mind for Indian families.

Now, let’s explore the heart of the matter – the engines and motors that drive this segment leader.

Decoding the Powertrain Palette: A Deep Dive

Tata Nexon Petrol

The petrol Nexon remains the most accessible entry point into the Nexon family, offering a blend of performance and refinement suitable for urban environments and occasional highway runs.

• Engine: 1.2L Turbocharged Revotron Petrol
• Power: 120 PS @ 5500 rpm
• Torque: 170 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm
• Gearbox Options: 5-speed Manual, 6-speed Manual, 6-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission), 7-speed DCA (Dual Clutch Automatic)
• Claimed Fuel Efficiency: ~17.01 – 17.44 kmpl (depending on transmission)

Pros:

• Lower Initial Cost: Typically the most affordable variant, making it budget-friendly to acquire.
• Refined Performance: The turbocharged engine offers good low-end grunt for city driving and sufficient power for highways.
• Multiple Transmission Options: Catering to both manual purists and those seeking automatic convenience. The DCA is particularly smooth.
• Widespread Fuel Availability: Petrol pumps are ubiquitous across India.

Cons:

• Higher Running Costs: Compared to diesel, CNG, or EV, petrol is generally more expensive per kilometre, especially with rising fuel prices.
• Not as Fuel Efficient: While decent for its segment, it won’t match the mileage figures of the diesel or CNG versions.

Who is it for?

The Nexon Petrol is ideal for drivers with moderate daily commutes, primarily in the city, and who prioritize a lower upfront cost. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate refinement and don’t clock exceptionally high mileage annually.

Estimated Pricing (Ex-showroom, Delhi):

• Nexon Petrol: Rs. 8.15 Lakhs – Rs. 14.60 Lakhs

Key Rivals:

Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV300, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger.

Tata Nexon Diesel

For those who cover long distances or appreciate strong low-end torque, the Nexon Diesel continues to be a compelling option, despite the declining popularity of diesel vehicles in general.

• Engine: 1.5L Turbocharged Revotorq Diesel
• Power: 115 PS @ 3750 rpm
• Torque: 260 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
• Gearbox Options: 6-speed Manual, 6-speed AMT
• Claimed Fuel Efficiency: ~23.23 kmpl (both MT & AMT)

Pros:

• Exceptional Fuel Efficiency: The diesel engine is remarkably frugal, making it very economical for long journeys.
• Strong Torque Delivery: 260 Nm of torque provides effortless highway cruising, excellent drivability, and easy overtaking.
• Highway Dominator: Its relaxed nature on open roads and superior range make it a preferred choice for frequent highway travellers.
• Proven Reliability: Tata’s diesel engines have a long-standing reputation for robustness.

Cons:

• Higher Initial Cost: Diesel variants typically command a premium over their petrol counterparts.
• Environmental Concerns: Diesel cars face stricter emission norms (BS6 RDE) and potential restrictions in some major cities.
• Declining Popularity: The market is slowly shifting away from diesel, which might impact future resale value.

Who is it for?

The Nexon Diesel is tailor-made for high-mileage users, especially those who frequently travel on highways. If you’re looking for superior running costs on long trips and appreciate strong, consistent pulling power, the diesel Nexon is hard to beat.

Estimated Pricing (Ex-showroom, Delhi):

• Nexon Diesel: Rs. 11.00 Lakhs – Rs. 15.80 Lakhs

Key Rivals:

Hyundai Venue Diesel, Kia Sonet Diesel, Mahindra XUV300 Diesel.

Tata Nexon EV (Nexon EV MR & Nexon EV LR)

Leading India’s EV revolution, the Nexon EV is available in two distinct battery pack options: Medium Range (MR) and Long Range (LR), catering to different range requirements.

• Battery (MR): 30 kWh High-Energy Density Battery Pack
• Battery (LR): 40.5 kWh High-Energy Density Battery Pack
• Motor Power (MR): 129 PS
• Motor Power (LR): 143 PS
• Torque (MR/LR): 215 Nm (both variants)
• ARAI Certified Range (MR): 325 km
• ARAI Certified Range (LR): 465 km
• Real-world Range (Estimated): 200-250 km (MR), 300-380 km (LR)
• Charging Time (0-80%):
  • AC Home Charger (7.2 kW): ~4.3 hours (MR), ~6 hours (LR)
  • DC Fast Charger (50 kW): ~56 minutes (MR), ~56 minutes (LR)

Pros:

• Extremely Low Running Costs: Electricity is significantly cheaper than petrol or diesel, leading to massive savings over time.
• Zero Emissions: Environmentally friendly driving with no tailpipe emissions.
• Instant Torque & Silent Operation: EVs offer exhilarating acceleration and a serene, quiet driving experience.
• Government Incentives: Often eligible for subsidies, road tax exemptions, and registration fee waivers.
• Advanced Features: Typically comes with more advanced tech, connected car features, and dedicated EV functionalities.

Cons:

• Higher Initial Cost: The most expensive Nexon variant to purchase upfront.
• Range Anxiety: While improving, the need for charging infrastructure and planning longer trips can be a concern for some.
• Charging Time: Longer charging times compared to refueling petrol/diesel, though home charging largely negates this for daily use.
• Public Charging Infrastructure: Still developing, especially outside major cities.

Who is it for?

The Nexon EV is for the early adopter, the eco-conscious urban dweller, or anyone with a fixed daily commute and access to home or office charging. If you’re ready to embrace the future of mobility and save significantly on running costs, the Nexon EV is your pick.

Estimated Pricing (Ex-showroom, Delhi):

• Nexon EV MR: Rs. 14.49 Lakhs – Rs. 17.00 Lakhs
• Nexon EV LR: Rs. 16.99 Lakhs – Rs. 19.49 Lakhs

Key Rivals:

Mahindra XUV400, MG ZS EV (higher segment but competes), upcoming Maruti Suzuki eVX.

Tata Nexon iCNG

The newest addition to the Nexon’s powertrain lineup, the iCNG variant brings Tata’s innovative twin-cylinder technology to the compact SUV segment, addressing the common boot space issue in CNG cars.

• Engine: 1.2L Turbocharged Revotron Bi-Fuel (Petrol + CNG)
• Power (Petrol): 120 PS @ 5500 rpm
• Torque (Petrol): 170 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm
• Power (CNG): 107 PS @ 5500 rpm
• Torque (CNG): 170 Nm @ 2250-3500 rpm
• Gearbox: 5-speed Manual Only
• Claimed Fuel Efficiency (CNG): ~26.9 km/kg
• Claimed Fuel Efficiency (Petrol): ~17.44 kmpl
• Innovative Twin-Cylinder CNG Setup: Retains considerable boot space (230 litres).

Pros:

• Unbelievably Low Running Costs: CNG is currently one of the cheapest fuels, offering significant savings per kilometre.
• Environmental Friendly: Produces fewer emissions than petrol or diesel.
• Excellent Range: With both petrol and CNG tanks, the combined range is extensive.
• Good Boot Space: Tata’s twin-cylinder technology largely solves the traditional CNG car problem of compromised boot space.
• Direct Start in CNG: No need to start on petrol first; the Nexon iCNG can start directly on CNG.

Cons:

• Slightly Reduced Performance: Power and torque figures are marginally lower when running on CNG compared to petrol.
• Limited CNG Infrastructure: While growing, CNG stations are still not as widespread as petrol/diesel, especially in rural areas.
• Manual Transmission Only: No automatic option is currently available.
• Queues at CNG Stations: Can sometimes be longer compared to petrol/diesel.

Who is it for?

The Nexon iCNG is perfect for high-mileage city commuters, taxi operators, or anyone who wants the absolute lowest running costs without the upfront investment of an EV. If your daily drives are within cities with decent CNG infrastructure, this is a highly practical and economical choice.

Estimated Pricing (Ex-showroom, Delhi):

• Nexon iCNG: Rs. 8.80 Lakhs – Rs. 12.00 Lakhs

Key Rivals:

Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG (upcoming), Hyundai Venue CNG (not currently offered in India).

Key Considerations for Your Decision

Making the right choice involves weighing several factors specific to your lifestyle and driving habits:

• Initial Cost vs. Running Costs: Are you looking for the cheapest car to buy, or the cheapest car to run over its lifetime? EVs and Diesels have higher upfront costs but lower running costs. Petrol and CNG are more affordable to buy but vary significantly in running expenses.
• Usage Pattern:
  • City Driving (Low Mileage): Petrol or EV MR.
  • City Driving (High Mileage): CNG or EV LR.
  • Highway Driving (Occasional): Petrol.
  • Highway Driving (Frequent/Long Distance): Diesel or EV LR (with charging plan).
• Environmental Consciousness: If zero emissions are paramount, EV is the only choice. CNG offers a good balance between cost and environmental impact.
• Fuel/Charging Infrastructure: Assess the availability of petrol pumps, diesel pumps, CNG stations, and EV charging points in your daily routes and usual travel destinations. Home charging is a game-changer for EV owners.
• Driving Experience: Do you prefer the silent, instant torque of an EV, the punchy performance of a turbo-petrol, the relaxed grunt of a diesel, or the frugal nature of a CNG?
• Boot Space: While Nexon iCNG boasts twin cylinders, the EV and petrol/diesel variants naturally offer slightly more uncompromised boot space.

The CarBikeIndia.com Verdict: Which Nexon is for YOU?

The beauty of the Tata Nexon lies in its diversity. Here’s our tailored recommendation:

• For the Urban Explorer & Budget-Conscious Buyer (Low to Moderate Mileage): Go for the Tata Nexon Petrol. It’s affordable, refined, and offers great value for city commutes and occasional weekend trips. The DCA automatic makes city driving a breeze.
• For the Highway Cruiser & High-Mileage Driver (Long Journeys): The Tata Nexon Diesel is still king. Its robust engine, incredible fuel efficiency, and effortless highway performance make it the ideal companion for inter-city travel.
• For the Eco-Warrior & Tech Enthusiast (Future-Ready Mobility): Embrace the future with the Tata Nexon EV (LR). If you have access to home charging, prioritize low running costs, and want a silent, powerful, and environmentally friendly ride, the EV is a no-brainer. The MR is great for purely city-focused commutes.
• For the Super Frugal & High-Mileage City Commuter (Cost Savings King): The Tata Nexon iCNG is your best bet. With its ultra-low running costs, decent performance, and practical boot space, it’s an unbeatable package for those who clock serious kilometres within cities with established CNG networks.

Ultimately, there’s a Tata Nexon for everyone. Each powertrain offers a unique proposition, designed to meet specific needs and preferences of the diverse Indian automotive buyer. We highly recommend taking test drives of your shortlisted variants to experience their unique characters firsthand. Happy car hunting!

ALSO READ: Tata Nexon All (Automatic & Manual) Variants Explained