Tata Nexon iCNG 2024: Drive Review, Mileage Test, Price, Efficiency, and Safety

A Comprehensive Review of Tata Nexon iCNG: Features, Performance, and Value

Looking for a compact SUV with both performance and fuel efficiency? Tata’s Nexon iCNG may just be the perfect fit for you. In this review, we explore the Nexon iCNG’s design, features, and driving dynamics, along with how it compares to the competitive market of CNG vehicles.

Exterior Design: What's New in Tata’s Nexon iCNG?

At first glance, the Nexon iCNG retains much of its traditional look. The exterior updates are subtle, focusing on enhancing the user experience:

• Panoramic Sunroof: The sunroof has been upgraded to a larger panoramic version, adding more light and luxury.
• 16-inch Alloy Wheels: No change in wheel size or suspension; it retains its comfortable ride height.
• CNG Port Integration: The CNG filling port is conveniently placed next to the petrol inlet, ensuring ease during refueling. However, it only opens from the inside, adding an extra layer of safety.
• Badging and Boot Space: A new CNG badge is present at the rear, but boot space remains generous, fitting two to three medium-sized suitcases even with the CNG cylinders tucked under the floor.

Interior Comfort and Technology of Tata’s Nexon iCNG

The interior of the Nexon iCNG has been meticulously designed to offer unparalleled comfort and convenience, boasting a range of impressive enhancements.

• Sunroof Excellence: The panoramic sunroof offers a spectacular view, enhancing the overall cabin ambiance.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: Everything is displayed clearly, from tire pressure to fuel levels, with real-time data available for both petrol and CNG modes.
• Touch-Sensitive CNG Switch: Seamlessly switch between petrol and CNG with a new touch-based control button.
• Spacious Rear Seats: The rear seating offers ample legroom, USB charging ports, cupholders, and rear AC vents for added comfort. However, headroom might feel a bit restricted due to the sloping roofline.
• Safety First: The car features three-point seat belts for all passengers, pre-tensioners, and a seat belt warning system.

Tata’s Nexon iCNG Performance and Drive Quality

The Nexon iCNG houses a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged engine that delivers 100 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque even on CNG, ensuring that the switch from petrol to CNG feels seamless.

Fuel Efficiency:

• City: 17-18 km/kg.
• Highway: 24-25 km/kg.

You might even touch 26-27 km/kg at optimal speeds on highways, though exceeding that range is unlikely.

• Ride and Handling: With a slightly stiffer suspension for better handling, it performs well but may feel a bit bumpy at higher tire pressures. The six-speed manual transmission allows smooth gear shifts without compromising torque, making city driving hassle-free.
• Safety Features: It comes equipped with 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, and a 5-star safety rating, ensuring peace of mind on the road.

Tata Nexon iCNG Dual Tank Technology: Maximizing Space and Efficiency

The Tata Nexon iCNG features an innovative dual CNG tank setup, a design that sets it apart from many other CNG vehicles. Instead of using a single large cylinder, the Nexon iCNG utilizes two smaller tanks placed smartly under the vehicle's floor. This configuration provides several benefits:

• Enhanced Boot Space: With the cylinders concealed beneath the floor, the Nexon retains a usable boot capacity of 321 liters, ensuring that passengers can carry luggage comfortably.
• Improved Weight Distribution: The dual-tank layout helps in distributing the weight evenly, enhancing the vehicle's stability and handling, especially on sharp turns and rough roads.
• Safety and Flexibility: The tanks are integrated with Tata’s leak detection system and auto-cutoff feature, ensuring safer operation. This setup also offers flexibility for better refueling, reducing the waiting time at CNG stations.

This smart design makes the Tata Nexon iCNG a practical choice for those seeking an eco-friendly vehicle without compromising on storage or driving comfort

What Makes Tata Nexon iCNG Stand Out?

The Tata Nexon iCNG brings a unique blend of performance, safety, and convenience to the growing CNG SUV market. Here are the standout features that make it an attractive choice for buyers:

• Powerful Yet Efficient: The turbocharged engine offers smooth acceleration even in CNG mode.
• Seamless Driving: Unlike many CNG cars that demand frequent gear changes, the Nexon iCNG’s consistent torque minimizes such needs.
• Advanced Safety: Stainless steel fuel lines and an auto-cut feature enhance safety during accidents. You can also manually shut off the CNG valve when needed.

Things to Watch Out For

• Limited Visibility: The thick A-pillars slightly obstruct visibility, which can take some getting used to.
• Horn Placement: The horn's positioning might feel awkward initially, but most users adapt over time.
• Cabin Noise: Engine noise tends to be slightly higher, particularly at high RPMs, something Tata could consider refining.

Tata Nexon iCNG Price Range: Affordable CNG SUV with Premium Features

The Tata Nexon iCNG offers an excellent balance of affordability and advanced features, with prices ranging between ₹8.99 lakh and ₹14.59 lakh (ex-showroom). This versatile pricing makes it an attractive option for various buyers, from budget-conscious individuals to those seeking feature-rich trims. The different variants offer a mix of essentials like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and safety systems such as six airbags and ABS with EBD. This pricing structure allows customers to choose a model that suits their needs while enjoying the benefits of CNG fuel efficiency without compromising performance and safety.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Tata Nexon iCNG?

If you’re in the market for a CNG SUV that combines performance, comfort, and safety, the Tata Nexon iCNG is a great option. While it may not offer the highest fuel efficiency in the segment, its power figures, ride quality, and top-notch safety features make it a compelling choice for families and long-distance travelers.

Value-for-Money Variant Recommendation

For those who value both performance and practicality, the mid-range variant of the Nexon iCNG strikes the perfect balance. It offers essential features without stretching the budget too much, making it a well-rounded package.

So, what are your thoughts on the Tata Nexon iCNG? Let us know in the comments below!