Tata Nexon Petrol vs Diesel vs EV vs CNG
One of the few compact SUVs in India, Tata Nexon offers petrol, diesel, CNG and electric options. This can be very beneficial for different categories of users but might also lead to confusion when choosing the car.
If you opt for the more budget-friendly petrol-powered version, the fuel-efficient diesel, the low running cost CNG or the all-electric Nexon EV. ev?
The decision is primarily based on your monthly running requirements, driving requirements, budget, charging infrastructure and performance preference. Below is a detailed comparison of Tata Nexon petrol, diesel, CNG and EV to make the decision.
Tata Nexon Petrol
For those who are looking to strike a balance between price, performance and usability, the Tata Nexon petrol is the simplest option. It is equipped with a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine of about 120 hp, and the transmission comes in manual, AMT and DCT automatic variants.
The petrol Nexon is the entry-level variant in the Nexon lineup, priced around ₹7.40 lakh ex-showroom. The ARAI-certified mileage of the manual version is approximately 17.44 kmpl.
The big question is: why should you purchase the Nexon petrol?
- The cheapest of the four prices is the lowest starting price
- Excellent engine performance from the turbo-petrol engine
- Multiple transmission choices
- It's okay for urban and sporadic highway use.
- No need to rely on CNG stations or charging stations
- Best choice when buying with relatively low annual running costs.
Its running cost will generally be higher than CNG or EV, especially if you drive the car a lot, which is the main drawback.
Tata Nexon Diesel
The Nexon diesel is designed for those who put in long miles a lot more often. It features a 1.5-litre diesel engine (115 hp approx.) and is offered with a manual gearbox or AMT.
The price for the diesel variant begins at approximately ₹9 lakh ex-showroom, subject to the variant and the prevailing pricing in the market.
If you're driving a car that will travel many kilometres each year, then diesel is the better choice. The improved low-end torque and fuel efficiency can make it more practical for highway driving, compared to petrol, in some instances.
Why buy Nexon diesel?
- Both the motor and gearbox deliver a robust, powerful torque when driving on the highway.
- More appropriate for annual running
- Ideal for regular long-distance trips
- With AMT option
- May be more fuel-efficient for long-distance travel
However, with low monthly consumption, the upfront cost can be a long time coming due to fuel savings.
Tata Nexon CNG
The Nexon CNG is an intriguing option between the traditional petrol and electric vehicles. It has a 1.2-litre engine with CNG and yields approximately 100 hp. Currently, it is available with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The efficiency of the Nexon CNG is ARAI-certified at 24 km/kg, which is one of the best in terms of running cost in the Nexon range. Tata's twin-cylinder configuration also ensures that there is more usable space in the boot than is available with conventional CNG configurations.
Why buy Nexon CNG?
- Lower running costs than petrol
- Excellent efficiency of 24 km/kg was achieved.
- Factory-fitted CNG system
- Efficient boot space from the twin-cylinder design
- A good idea for high city running
- So what a relief to avoid the stress of EV charging!
The biggest issue with the main compromise is performance. The CNG version is not as powerful as the petrol and diesel versions, and automatic transmission is not available on the CNG powertrain at the moment.
Tata Nexon EV
At the bottom of the range, the most costly powertrain configuration is available on the Nexon EV, which has the lowest energy cost per kilometre when plugging it in at home, and can deliver a very smooth driving experience.
The current generation Nexon EV comes in 30kWh and 45kWh batteries. Real-world range will vary by driving conditions, with Tata on 30kWh version claiming 275 km (range expected to be lower) and the 45kWh version around 350-375 km (range expected to be lower).
The Nexon EV is priced from ₹12.49 lakh ex-showroom for the 30kWh variant, with the 45kWh versions coming in at a higher price.
Why buy Nexon EV?
- Low running costs when charged at home
- Smooth and silent driving experience
- Instant electric torque
- Perfect for commuting to work throughout the day.
- No Petrol, diesel, or CNG fuel costs
- The 45kWh version offers a practical extended range for long distances.
Charging is the most important factor to consider. If you can charge at home or at work with a steady source of electricity, an EV is the best option. Petrol, diesel or CNG versions may be more convenient if you're the type of person who makes long trips on the highway, where it's not always possible to find charging stations.
Which Tata Nexon to buy?
No single winner for all.
If you prefer to choose Tata Nexon Petrol, then you should:
You drive relatively little and have the expectations of the lowest purchase price and don't want to be concerned about charging or CNG availability. If you're looking for an automatic but don't want to move to the EV, then petrol is the better choice as well.
If you select Tata Nexon Diesel, then:
You run on the highways regularly and have a high annual running. Diesel is most appropriate for purchasers who are making long trips rather than occasional trips.
If you prefer the Tata Nexon CNG, then:
You run a lot, most of your driving is done in the city, and you have easy access to CNG stations. It offers a decent balance between practicality and lower operating expenses (running costs) of an SUV.
Go for Tata Nexon EV if:
The primary usage is in urban areas, you have a home charging point, and the lowest day-to-day running cost is most important. The 45kWh version is especially appealing if you travel extensively on the highways as well.
Tata Nexon Petrol vs Diesel vs CNG vs EV: Results
In a vehicle for low monthly usage, the Nexon petrol is again typically the easiest and most practical option, as one does not have to pay a large premium for an alternative powertrain.
If you drive a lot on a highway, the Nexon diesel is the one to choose.
Nexon CNG is a good value proposition for high city usage and easy availability of CNG.
The Nexon EV is the best choice for regular road driving and a home charging setup, as it provides low running costs and a smooth driving experience.
