Tata Motors introduced the much-awaited CNG variant of its popular compact SUV the Tata Nexon, last month. Known for its versatile offerings in petrol, diesel, and electric powertrains, the introduction of a factory-fitted CNG system adds another feather to its cap. Nexon CNG has become the first car to offer a turbo charged engine fitted with a CNG kit from the factory itself.
We got our hands on the CNG-powered Nexon recently and tested the car to provide you with an honest first impression of Tata’s latest offering. This review primarily focuses on performance, and overall value proposition of the Tata Nexon CNG, based on firsthand driving experiences and observations.
The Engine!
Tata Nexon CNG runs on the same 1.2L turbocharged engine, producing 100 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque. This is slightly lower compared to the petrol only model which churns out 120 PS, but there is no difference in torque. On paper the car feels adequately powerful for an SUV of this size, let’s hope it delivers the same in the real world as well.
Driving Experience:
First things first, we all know that Nexon’s three cylinder engine has been widely criticised for its below average refinement levels, the CNG model is no different. Crank the engine while it’s cold and you feel that something has come to life under the hood and making its presence felt, the good thing though is that like any other Tata, Nexon CNG too can be started directly in CNG mode.
Slot the car in first gear and you probably don’t need any throttle input to get it moving with a gentle clutch release, we actually admired how well the engine is tuned that it feels almost the same in both petrol and CNG modes. However, with AC on we felt a little bit of hesitation from the engine, but you can manage it by getting even more gentle on the clutch. So as far as stop and go traffic is concerned the iCNG Nexon wouldn’t let you down.
The overall driving experience is comfortable, and the engine responds well in both CNG and petrol modes. There are no additional vibrations or jerks, in the CNG mode compared to the petrol mode.
In city driving, the Nexon CNG performs efficiently without any noticeable lag in acceleration, even in bumper-to-bumper traffic. It can easily pull without the need for constant gear changes, making it a practical choice for daily commutes. We tried to test the drivability by moving at as low as 25 kmph in 4th gear but it never felt as if it was going to stall, however the engine was lugging and its response was dull.
On highways, the Nexon CNG manages to cruise comfortably at speeds of 80-90 km/h. However, the lack of cruise control in a vehicle of this stature feels like a missed opportunity. Despite the extra weight due to the CNG kit, the turbocharged engine ensures that mid-range performance is strong.
However in case of Expressway speeds the engine behaves a little differently in petrol and CNG modes. During a quick overtaking manoeuvre you might feel a slight difference in power on highways, especially in higher gears.
As far as ride and handling is concerned the Nexon iCNG drives identical to the regular Nexon, the suspension have been slightly stiffened to accommodate the extra weight of the CNG cylinders, but the ride quality remains smooth.
Fuel Efficiency:
On CNG, Tata Nexon claims an impressive fuel efficiency of around 24 km/kg, which makes it a highly economical choice. With CNG prices being significantly lower than petrol, the cost of running the Nexon CNG comes down drastically, offering substantial savings in the long run.
We tested our tested car twice in our short drive for fuel economy with the CNG tanks emptied from almost 75%, for a commendable 211 kilometers and in the second run we filled the tanks with 2 kilograms of gas and again emptied them with a total trip reading of 54 kilometers. Thus, returning a excellent mileage of 27 kilometer per kilogram of CNG
While the actual fuel efficiency depends on driving habits and conditions, Nexon CNG does deliver commendable mileage for a compact SUV.
Interior and Features:
Inside, the Nexon CNG maintains its stylish all-black interior, offering the same comfort as its petrol counterpart. The top variant comes loaded with a 10.25-inch infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, climate control, and a sunroof. However, some notable omissions include cruise control and drive modes, even in the top variant. These features could have enhanced the driving experience, especially for long journeys on highways.
The switch between CNG and petrol modes is smooth, with the fuel indicators working separately for both fuels, allowing drivers to easily monitor their consumption without manual calculations. The infotainment system remains user-friendly and the inclusion of a 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, and auto-dimming IRVM adds to the car’s convenience factor.
Safety and Convenience:
Safety is a major highlight of the Nexon, with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability control as standard. The availability of ventilated seats and wireless charging in the higher variants further adds to the overall convenience. The sunroof, though a luxury feature, adds to the Nexon’s appeal, particularly in the top-spec models.
Pricing and Competition:
The Tata Nexon CNG is available from the base “Smart” optional variant, starting at ₹8,99,000 (ex-showroom). It competes directly with rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG, which starts at ₹9,30,000, and also against CNG-equipped models like the Maruti Suzuki Fronx and Toyota Taisor. With CNG prices surging, the Nexon CNG comes as a promising alternative for those looking for better fuel economy without compromising on SUV capabilities.
Boot Space and CNG Setup:
One of the significant concerns with CNG vehicles is the reduction in boot space due to the CNG cylinder placement, but like all Tata cars Nexon iCNG comes fitted with two 30L CNG cylinders, still leaving a decent boot space of around 321 litres. This is only a 61-litre reduction compared to the petrol variant. The spare wheel is conveniently placed underneath, ensuring that the remaining space is usable.
Conclusion:
The Tata Nexon CNG brings the best of both worlds – the fuel efficiency of CNG and the versatility of an SUV. It is well-suited for city driving and moderate highway use, offering commendable performance and comfort. While it lacks a few features like cruise control and drive modes, it compensates with its spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and a robust build. For buyers looking for an economical, eco-friendly SUV with the added advantage of CNG, the Nexon CNG is certainly worth considering.
