The Tata Nexon SUV that has been very popular with customers is gearing up to launch in its new avatar. The company has started working on the new generation and has already been caught in its prototype form on Indian roads. The current model has been around for almost 10 years and has undergone two significant refreshes back in 2020 and 2023. Now, Tata Motors is gearing up to make an entirely new change with its next-generation Nexon, which will be launched in 2027.
The upcoming new Tata Nexon SUV has been given an internal code name of Garud. Recently, some spy pictures of pre-production testing have been leaked. But, the prototype used for testing is totally wrapped up in camouflage and uses many temporary panels. So, it is too early to talk anything about its final look. But nevertheless, the spy pictures give out some important design and features of the SUV.
The most significant change seen in the spy images is the rear of the SUV. The new-generation Nexon is expected to feature a more sloping rear windscreen compared to the current model. Furthermore, the rear wiper in the testing model appears to be mounted on the upper part of the windscreen. It's likely that it will be hidden under the rear spoiler in the production model. This could give the SUV a cleaner and more attractive rear end.
The front design of the new Tata Nexon may also see significant changes. The position of the main headlamp unit on the bumper in the testing model suggests that the company may retain the split headlamp setup. However, it is expected to feature a new front bumper, an updated grille, and new lighting elements. A radar module was also spotted on the bumper of the testing model, indicating that the new Nexon may continue to feature ADAS features.
From the side, the glasshouse of the new-generation Nexon appears very similar to the current model. However, it may feature new alloy wheels. Based on spy images, these wheels are likely to be 17-inch. Another significant change is visible in its rear wheels. The testing model featured a rear disc brake setup, while the current Nexon features drum brakes at the rear. This change indicates a possible hardware update for the new SUV.
The new Tata Nexon is not expected to have significant changes in size. This is primarily due to the length limitations of the sub-4 meter SUV segment. Therefore, the next-generation model is likely to remain around the same size as the current SUV. According to reports, it could be built on a heavily modified version of the existing X1 platform. This platform could possibly be similar to the ATLAS platform used in the company's Curvv coupe-SUV. However, the company has not yet officially confirmed the platform.
Spy photos of the new Nexon's interior also reveal changes to its cabin. Two separate, free-standing screens are expected. However, the size of these screens is not yet known. Furthermore, the company may retain its twin-spoke steering wheel design. The dashboard design and cabin theme are expected to be completely new. Like the current Nexon, the new generation is also expected to feature several modern and useful features.
Regarding the powertrain, the new Tata Nexon is expected to continue with the existing petrol and CNG engine options. However, the situation regarding diesel engines is still unclear. The 1.5-liter diesel engine in the current Nexon was the only engine to meet BS6.2 emission norms without the expensive SCR system. However, updating it to meet the upcoming BS7 emission norms could be more expensive. This is why we can't say with certainty about the presence of a diesel engine in the new generation.
Nexon's new generation is anticipated to get updates together with the petrol and diesel versions of Nexons, including its electric version called Nexon EV. But the question remains as to whether Tata Motors will offer both variants simultaneously or not.
On launching, the newly-launched Tata Nexon will go head to head with models such as Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Skoda Kylaq among others in the compact SUV category. It is important to note that no official information from the manufacturer has been released on the dates and prices as well as features and engines. This means more information is to come before its expected launch in 2027.
