Tata Nexon

Tata might be late in entering the booming sub 4-metre SUV category, but it is making sure it ruffles quite a lot of feathers with the Nexon. The concept was first showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo, and the production-spec version made its debut at the 2016 edition. The Nexon will be launched by the festive season this year. Wondering what’s likely to be on offer?

Design-wise, the Nexon looks thoroughly modern, especially when you compare it to rivals such as the Mahindra TUV300 and the Mahindra NuvoSport. Highlights of the design include projector headlamps with daytime running lamps, LED taillamps and 16-inch alloy wheels. The top-spec Nexon will also get a two-tone paint scheme, just like the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza.

We got a quick glimpse of the interior of the Nexon as well, and can tell you that the cabin is a spacious place to be for five adults. Goodies on offer are likely to include automatic climate, control, a touchscreen infotainment unit paired with a Harman sound system, steering-mounted audio controls and a detailed MID.

On the engines front, the Nexon is expected to carry forward powertrains from the Bolt and the Zest. Expect a 1.2-litre turbocharged ‘Revotron’ petrol, and 1.3-litre diesel engine. We expect the engines to be retuned to suit the heavier build of the compact SUV. Transmission duties are expected to be carried out by a 5-speed manual gearbox. Rumours also suggest the Nexon might be made available in a diesel-AMT avatar.

Tata is expected to price the Nexon aggressively, with prices starting around the Rs 6 lakh mark for the base-spec petrol. Expect the diesel range to start at Rs 7 lakh, and top out a notch under Rs 10 lakh.