With the launch of its flagship model, the Curvv SUV Tata Motors is now turning its attention to its most popular compact SUV, the Nexon. A development was unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Expo earlier this year that the Nexon is set to soon receive a CNG-powered variant. It is expected that this new version of the next will make a debut by the end of September, following the release of the Curvv. Recent sightings of a test mule of the Nexon have sparked speculation that it could be the CNG variant.
Still, there is no definitive evidence that the spite vehicle is the CNG version the visible exhaust pipe confirms it is an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) model under run testing. From the report based on the upcoming plans and the timeline of recent events about Tata Motors, probably, this could indeed be the much-anticipated Nexon CNG expected to launch soon.
From the available report, it is calculated that the Nexon CNG will be a significant addition to Tata Motors lineup, primarily because it will be the first car in India to feature CNG technology combined with a turbocharged engine. This segment will be an evaluation for the riders or the customers to enjoy an eco-friendly vehicle that is not only fulfilling the dreams of the riders but also contributing to the environment to protect it from harmful gasses that arise due to other fuel cars like petrol or diesel. This combination is groundbreaking making the Nexon CNG the first turbo-petrol CNG car in the Indian market. Additionally, this evolutionary SUV will offer both manual and automated manual transmission (AMT) gearbox options a first in the segment for a CNG-powered vehicle.
Under the hood, the Nexon CNG will house a 1.2 litre turbocharged petrol engine capable of delivering 118 bhp of power and 170 Nm of torque in standard mode. It is expected that this segment of SUV will provide a balanced blend of performance and fuel efficiency, catering to customers looking for an economical yet powerful SUV option. Specifically, the Nexon CNG will also feature a twin CNG cylinder system that provides approximately 230 litres of boot space, which is quite generous considering the additional equipment. Preferably the CNG variant of the Nexon will come equipped with several advanced features to enhance its appeal and functionality. For better fuel management the vehicle or SUV will have an advanced Engine Control Unit (ECU) that will drive an auto-switch function that seamlessly transitions between petrol and CNG modes, and a direct start in CNG mode feature for added convenience for the targeted customers. Even from the safety concerns, it will have a modular fuel filter for easier maintenance and a leak detection system.
Currently, the only other compact SUV in the Indian market that offers a CNG alternative is the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, which means the Nexon CNG will have direct competition upon its release. The competition might be tough for Tata Motors by launching its next CNG against the Suzuki Brazza but the unique combination of a turbocharged engine and CNG technology along with its AMT option could give it a competitive edge in the market.
It is assumed that as per the pricing strategy, the CNG-powered versions of the Nexon are expected to be priced at a premium of around rupees 80,000 to rupees 1 lakh over the standard petrol variance. Overall, it can be concluded that with the feature of an innovative combination of turbo petrol and CNG technology, the Naxon CNG is set to offer a unique proposition to customers looking for a versatile economical, and powerful compact SUV.