The Indian automotive market is witnessing a surge in demand for CNG vehicles, driven by rising fuel prices and increasing environmental concerns. Tata Motors, a leading car manufacturer in India, is poised to capitalize on this trend with the imminent launch of the Nexon CNG. This highly anticipated subcompact SUV promises an enticing blend of power, efficiency, and eco-friendliness.
A Pioneering Powertrain: Turbocharged CNG for the First Time
The Tata Nexon CNG stands out from the competition by offering a first-of-its-kind powertrain in the Indian market – a 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine optimized for CNG fuel. This innovative approach is expected to deliver a compelling combination of performance and fuel economy.
While the exact output figures for the CNG variant haven’t been officially revealed, the 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine in its standard guise produces 120 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque. We can expect some reduction in these figures when running on CNG, but the turbocharger should help maintain a significant edge in performance compared to naturally aspirated CNG engines commonly found in other vehicles.
Transmission Options and Features: Balancing Efficiency and Convenience
Tata Motors is likely to equip the Nexon CNG with a 5-speed manual transmission as the standard option. This aligns with the focus on fuel efficiency in the CNG segment. However, considering the recent addition of a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) to the Tiago and Tigor CNG models, there’s a strong possibility of a similar option for the Nexon CNG as well. This would cater to drivers seeking a more convenient automatic driving experience.
In terms of features, the specific details will depend on the variant configuration offered by Tata. However, based on the existing Nexon trims and the features offered in other Tata CNG models, we can expect a well-equipped cabin. Here’s a glimpse of some potential features:
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- 10.25-inch digital driver’s display for clear and convenient access to driving information.
- Wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
- Panoramic sunroof to enhance the cabin ambiance and provide a more open feel.
- Automatic climate control for maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature.
- 9-speaker JBL sound system for an immersive audio experience.
Safety remains a top priority for Tata Motors. The Nexon CNG is expected to come equipped with six airbags as standard, along with a suite of advanced safety features such as:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for improved vehicle stability during maneuvers.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to alert drivers of underinflated tires.
- ISOFIX child seat anchors for secure installation of child seats.
- 360-degree camera system (on higher variants) for enhanced parking maneuverability and improved spatial awareness.
Launch, Price, and Competition: A Compelling Proposition in the CNG Market
While Tata Motors hasn’t officially announced the launch date for the Nexon CNG, frequent test mule sightings suggest an imminent arrival in the coming months. The standard Tata Nexon price range starts from Rs 8.15 lakh and goes up to Rs 15.80 lakh (ex-showroom). Considering the additional components required for the CNG powertrain, we can expect the Nexon CNG variants to carry a premium of around Rs 1 lakh over their corresponding petrol-only counterparts. Additionally, AMT variants might command a further price increase of around Rs 50,000.
Upon launch, the Tata Nexon CNG will directly compete with the established Maruti Brezza CNG variants. The Nexon CNG’s potential edge lies in its turbocharged engine’s promise of superior performance and the overall feature package it might offer.
Benefits of Choosing a CNG Vehicle
Here’s a quick breakdown of some key advantages of opting for a CNG vehicle like the Tata Nexon CNG:
Lower Fuel Costs: CNG is significantly cheaper than petrol and diesel, offering substantial savings on running costs.
Reduced Emissions: CNG vehicles emit lower levels of harmful pollutants compared to petrol and diesel vehicles, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Government Incentives: The Indian government offers various incentives and subsidies to promote CNG vehicles, making them even more attractive to purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes the Tata Nexon CNG unique?
A: The Tata Nexon CNG stands out as the first CNG-powered SUV in India to feature a turbo-petrol engine, offering enhanced performance and reduced environmental impact.
Q: Will the Tata Nexon CNG come with advanced safety features?
A: Yes, the Tata Nexon CNG is expected to offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability program (ESP), and more.
Q: When can we expect the Tata Nexon CNG to launch?
A: While Tata has not confirmed a specific launch date, industry experts anticipate its arrival in the market in the coming months, following the completion of testing and regulatory approvals.
Q: Will the CNG option affect the boot space of the Nexon?
A: Tata is known for its “twin cylinder technology” in CNG models, which helps optimize space utilization. Therefore, the boot space is likely to be minimally affected compared to the petrol variants.
Q: Does the Nexon CNG offer a CNG start option?
A: Based on features seen in other Tata CNG models, the Nexon CNG is expected to have a CNG start option, allowing you to directly start the car in CNG mode without needing to switch from petrol first.
Q: Is there a waiting period expected for the Tata Nexon CNG after launch?
A: The actual waiting period will depend on the initial demand and production capacity. However, considering the popularity of the Nexon and the growing CNG market, some waiting periods can’t be entirely ruled out. It’s advisable to check with authorized Tata dealerships closer to the launch date for the most accurate information.
