In a market flooded with sub-compact SUVs, the Tata Nexon has long held its ground as a frontrunner. With the 2023 Nexon facelift, Tata Motors brought a more cohesive look, ensuring the Nexon appeals to young buyers who prioritise aesthetics without sacrificing functionality.
After two months of driving and testing the latest iteration of this SUV, it's evident why the Tata Nexon Facelift continues to be one of the best value-for-money offerings in its segment, even as we approach 2025.
Design and Build Quality
The 2023 facelift brings significant aesthetic upgrades that give the Nexon a fresh, contemporary appeal. The sharper LED DRLs, revised grille, and muscular creases on the bonnet exude a more aggressive stance.
The redesigned rear profile, complemented by new tail lamps connected by an LED strip, adds to its modern charm.
Step inside, and the story gets even better. The dual-tone dashboard, premium materials, and seamless integration of technology reflect Tata’s focus on quality and detail. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, now with improved responsiveness though it still lags sometimes, and the fully digital driver’s display, elevate the in-cabin experience to a segment above.
Powertrain Performance
Available in both petrol and diesel variants, the Nexon Facelift offers choices that cater to diverse driving preferences. I tested the 1.2L turbocharged petrol engine, paired with the 7 speed DCA gearbox, extensively.
The engine delivers a spirited performance in city commutes and holds its own on highways. During my extensive test drive, the petrol variant demonstrated peppy acceleration, ideal for quick overtakes, particularly on steep inclines. The power delivery is smooth, and the gearbox, though not the quickest in the segment, gets the job done reliably.
Ride comfort, long a Nexon hallmark, remains exemplary, absorbing potholes and uneven surfaces with ease. Over two months, the petrol variant returned an average of around 13 km/l in mixed driving conditions
Comfort and Features
The Tata Nexon Facelift’s cabin strikes a perfect balance between comfort and practicality. The seats are well-cushioned, offering excellent support for long drives. Rear seat space, often a deciding factor for families, remains adequate with ample legroom and headroom.
Feature-wise, the Nexon is a benchmark in its segment. From ventilated front seats and a wireless phone charger to a 360-degree camera and connected car tech, Tata has left no stone unturned. The air purifier and advanced voice assistant powered by Tata’s IRA technology add to the convenience.
Safety: A Step Ahead
Tata Nexon has been synonymous with safety, and the 2023 facelift builds on this reputation. With a 5-star Global NCAP rating, reinforced body structure, and an array of safety features like ESP, hill hold assist, and six airbags, it remains one of the safest choices for families. The addition of ADAS features, including lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, brings advanced safety tech to the compact SUV segment.
Why It Still Shines
Despite the influx of newer models, the Tata Nexon facelift has successfully retained its crown as a value-for-money champion. Here’s why:
Final Verdict: A Car That Stands the Test of Time
After spending two months with the Tata Nexon Facelift, its strengths are undeniable. It is a car that caters to modern-day demands without compromising on essentials. Its stylish design, comfortable interiors, feature-rich package, and commitment to safety make it an all-rounder that justifies every rupee spent.
Even two years post the launch of the facelift, the Nexon still remains a car that offers something for everyone, from first-time buyers to families seeking a dependable daily driver. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that blends style, performance, and affordability, the Tata Nexon continues to be a choice that’s hard to overlook.
 Andreas Dick, Board Member for Production & Logistics at Škoda Auto, and Piyush Arora, MD & CEO of ŠAVWIPL at the official Start of Production (SoP) ceremony for the Škoda Kylaq. (1)_20241214173529_original_image_14.webp)
