The Tata Nexon has long been a formidable player in India’s competitive compact SUV market.
With its 2023 facelift, Tata Motors has taken a significant leap forward, reimagining this popular vehicle with a host of upgrades that promise to elevate the driving experience and solidify its position as a segment leader. Let’s delve into the details of this exciting new iteration of the Tata Nexon.
Design Evolution: A Head-Turning Makeover
The 2023 Tata Nexon facelift brings a striking visual transformation that commands attention on the road. Drawing inspiration from Tata’s Curvv and Harrier EV concepts, the new Nexon sports a more sophisticated and futuristic appearance.
At the front, a sleeker grille dominates the fascia, flanked by redesigned LED headlights that incorporate distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs).
These elements combine to create a more assertive and modern face for the Nexon. The bumper has been resculpted, adding to the SUV’s muscular stance.
Moving to the side profile, larger alloy wheels (now up to 16 inches in diameter) fill the wheel arches more confidently, enhancing the Nexon’s road presence.
The silhouette remains recognizable, but subtle changes in the character lines and the introduction of a floating roof design with blacked-out pillars add a touch of sophistication.
The rear of the new Nexon features redesigned LED taillights, potentially connected by a light bar, which not only looks premium but also improves visibility.
The overall effect is a more cohesive and upmarket appearance that sets the Nexon apart in its segment.
Interestingly, the new Nexon has undergone slight dimensional changes. It’s now 2mm longer and 14mm taller, while the width has been reduced by 7mm. However, the wheelbase remains unchanged at 2,498mm, preserving interior space.
The ground clearance also stays consistent at a generous 208mm, ensuring the Nexon’s capability to tackle varied road conditions.
Interior Refinement: A Leap in Luxury and Technology
Step inside the 2023 Nexon, and you’re greeted by a cabin that has received a comprehensive overhaul. The dashboard layout has been completely redesigned, adopting a cleaner, more minimalist approach that exudes premium appeal.
The centerpiece of the new interior is a floating 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This larger display not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers improved functionality with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Complementing this is a new 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, providing crisp, customizable information to the driver.
One of the most notable interior updates is the introduction of a new two-spoke steering wheel, a design element that adds a touch of modernity and sportiness to the cabin.
The steering wheel now features an illuminated Tata logo, which the company claims is a world-first feature.
Comfort features have been enhanced with the inclusion of ventilated front seats, a boon for hot Indian summers. The upholstery has been upgraded, with new color options and materials that elevate the overall feel of the interior. A wireless phone charger adds to the convenience factor, catering to the tech-savvy user.
The Nexon facelift retains popular features from its predecessor, such as the sunroof, cruise control, keyless entry, and push-button start. However, these have been refined and improved upon to enhance the overall user experience.
Powertrains: Efficiency Meets Performance
Under the hood, the 2023 Tata Nexon continues to offer a choice of capable powertrains, now optimized for better performance and efficiency.
The petrol variant is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine that produces 120 bhp and 170 Nm of torque. This engine can be paired with a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, or a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering a range of options to suit different driving preferences.
For those who prefer diesel, the 1.5-liter turbocharged unit continues to serve, generating 115 bhp and 260 Nm of torque. It comes with the option of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission).
The introduction of the 7-speed DCT for the petrol variant is a significant upgrade, promising smoother shifts and improved performance, especially in urban driving conditions.
This new transmission option positions the Nexon more competitively against rivals that offer similar advanced gearbox technologies.
Both engines have been tuned to meet the latest BS6 Phase II emission norms, ensuring that the Nexon is not only powerful but also environmentally compliant.
Advanced Safety Features: Prioritizing Occupant Protection
Safety has always been a strong suit for the Tata Nexon, and the 2023 facelift takes it a step further. The Nexon retains its 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, a testament to its robust build quality and comprehensive safety features.
The new model introduces advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to the Nexon lineup. Features like lane-keep assist and autonomous emergency braking are now available, bringing the Nexon in line with more premium offerings in terms of active safety technology.
Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, corner stability control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors.
The inclusion of a 360-degree camera system not only aids in parking but also enhances overall safety by providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is now standard across all variants, further enhancing the Nexon’s safety credentials. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) adds another layer of safety and convenience for drivers.
Technology and Connectivity: A Connected Driving Experience
The 2023 Nexon facelift embraces the digital age with a host of new technology features. The aforementioned 10.25-inch infotainment system is powered by Tata’s latest software, offering a smooth and intuitive user interface.
Connected car technology has been enhanced, allowing users to access various vehicle functions through a smartphone app. This includes features like remote engine start, climate control activation, and vehicle tracking.
The infotainment system now supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring that the Nexon can receive new features and improvements even after purchase. Voice command functionality has been improved, allowing for hands-free control of various vehicle functions.
For audiophiles, the Nexon offers a premium sound system that promises an immersive in-car entertainment experience. Multiple USB ports and the wireless charging pad ensure that all devices can stay powered on long journeys.
Variants and Pricing: Something for Everyone
The 2023 Tata Nexon facelift is available in a range of variants to cater to different customer needs and budgets. The lineup has been restructured with new nomenclature: Smart, Smart+, Smart+ S, Pure, Pure S, Creative, Creative+, Fearless, Fearless S, and Fearless+ S.
In this new structure, the ‘+’ denotes an optional package with additional features, while the ‘S’ indicates the inclusion of a sunroof. This flexible approach allows customers to choose a variant that best suits their preferences and budget.
Pricing for the new Nexon starts at Rs. 7.99 lakh for the base Smart variant and goes up to Rs. 15.60 lakh for the top-end Fearless+ S variant (ex-showroom prices).
This competitive pricing strategy positions the Nexon as an attractive option in the compact SUV segment, offering premium features at various price points.
Market Positioning and Competition
The 2023 Tata Nexon facelift enters a fiercely competitive market, going up against established players like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and the newly launched Kia Syros. However, with its comprehensive updates, the Nexon is well-positioned to hold its ground and potentially gain market share.
The Nexon’s combination of striking design, advanced features, robust safety credentials, and competitive pricing makes it a compelling option for buyers in the compact SUV segment.
Its diverse powertrain options, including the new DCT transmission, cater to a wide range of customer preferences.
Tata Nexon new facelift : A Worthy Contender in the Compact SUV Arena
The 2023 Tata Nexon facelift represents a significant evolution of an already popular model. With its bold new design, upgraded interior, advanced technology features, and enhanced safety offerings, the new Nexon is poised to make a strong impact in the compact SUV segment.
Tata Motors has clearly listened to customer feedback and market trends, addressing key areas for improvement while building on the Nexon’s existing strengths. The result is a well-rounded package that offers style, substance, and value.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on technology, safety, and efficiency, the new Tata Nexon appears well-equipped to meet these changing demands.
Whether it’s for the daily urban commute, weekend getaways, or as a stylish family car, the 2023 Nexon makes a strong case for itself.
With this comprehensive update, Tata has not only refreshed the Nexon but has also thrown down the gauntlet to its competitors.
As it hits the roads across India, the new Tata Nexon facelift is set to turn heads, win hearts, and potentially redefine expectations in the compact SUV segment.