In the bustling streets of Mumbai and the winding roads of the Western Ghats, a familiar silhouette has been turning heads and capturing hearts.
The Tata Nexon, a compact SUV that has become synonymous with Indian automotive ingenuity, has received a significant makeover for 2025. This isn’t just a facelift; it’s a reimagining of what an affordable, feature-packed SUV can be in the world’s most dynamic car market.
A Design That Speaks Volumes
The 2025 Nexon is a visual treat, blending aggression with sophistication. The front fascia now sports a wider grille, flanked by sleek LED headlamps that give the car a more premium appearance. The daytime running lights (DRLs) have been redesigned, creating a distinctive light signature that’s unmistakable even from a distance.
Moving along the side, the strong character lines remain, but with a more refined execution. The wheel arches have been slightly flared, accommodating larger alloy wheels that not only enhance the Nexon’s stance but also improve its road presence. The floating roof design, a hallmark of the Nexon, has been retained but with a more pronounced slope towards the rear, giving the SUV a coupe-like profile.
At the rear, LED taillights make a bold statement, connected by a light bar that spans the width of the tailgate. This not only adds a touch of modernity but also improves visibility, a crucial safety feature in India’s often chaotic traffic conditions.
Powertrains: Choices for Every Driver
Under the hood, the 2025 Nexon offers a smorgasbord of options to suit every palate and pocket:
The tried-and-true 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine, now refined to produce 120 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque. This powerplant can be paired with either a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed AMT, or the new 7-speed DCT for those who prefer a sportier driving experience.
For the efficiency-minded, there’s the 1.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine, churning out 116 PS and a robust 260 Nm of torque. It comes mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT, offering a perfect blend of power and economy.
In a nod to India’s push towards cleaner fuels, Tata has introduced a CNG variant. The 1.2-liter engine, when running on CNG, produces 100 PS and 170 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission.
These powertrain options ensure that whether you’re navigating city traffic, cruising on the highway, or tackling rough rural roads, there’s a Nexon variant that’s perfect for the job.
Interior: A Leap into the Future
Step inside the 2025 Nexon, and you’re greeted by an interior that’s a far cry from the utilitarian cabins of yesteryear’s Indian cars. The centerpiece is a floating 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a fully digital instrument cluster of the same size. This dual-screen setup not only looks premium but also offers seamless connectivity with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The materials used in the cabin have seen a significant upgrade. Soft-touch plastics adorn the dashboard and door panels, while the seats are upholstered in a durable yet premium fabric. Higher trims offer leatherette upholstery, adding a touch of luxury to the compact SUV.
Comfort features abound, with automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, and a voice-activated electric sunroof that Tata calls “Vistadome.” The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, a crucial factor for Indian families who often travel with multiple generations on board.
Technology: Staying Connected on the Go
The 2025 Nexon is not just a car; it’s a rolling tech hub. The iRA (Intelligent Real-time Assist) connected car technology offers over 60 features, including:
Remote engine start/stop
Geofencing
Vehicle tracking
Over-the-air updates
Voice commands in multiple Indian languages
The infotainment system is powered by a new processor that ensures smooth operation even when multitasking. For audiophiles, there’s a premium JBL sound system that turns the cabin into a concert hall on wheels.
Safety hasn’t taken a backseat either. The Nexon continues to be one of the safest cars in its segment, building on its 5-star Global NCAP rating. Standard safety features include:
6 airbags
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Hill Hold Control
ISOFIX child seat anchors
360-degree camera with blind spot detection
Driving Dynamics: The Best of Both Worlds
On the road, the 2025 Nexon strikes a fine balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension has been tuned to offer a plush ride over India’s often-challenging road surfaces, yet it remains composed when pushed through corners. The steering is light at low speeds, making city maneuvers a breeze, but weighs up nicely as speeds increase, offering good feedback to the driver.
The new 7-speed DCT, available with the petrol engine, is a game-changer in this segment. It offers quick, smooth shifts that enhance both performance and fuel efficiency. For those who prefer a more engaging drive, the 6-speed manual transmission offers crisp shifts and a light clutch, perfect for stop-and-go traffic.
Variants and Pricing: Something for Everyone
The 2025 Nexon is offered in four broad trims: Smart, Pure, Creative, and Fearless. Each of these is further divided into sub-variants, offering a total of 53 variants across petrol, diesel, and CNG powertrains. This might seem overwhelming, but it allows buyers to choose a Nexon that fits their exact needs and budget.
Prices start at a competitive ₹8.00 lakh for the base Smart variant with the 1.2-liter petrol engine and 5-speed manual transmission. The range-topping Fearless Plus PS Dark variant, equipped with all the bells and whistles and the 1.5-liter diesel engine with 6-speed DCT, is priced at ₹15.60 lakh (all prices ex-showroom).
The Competition: Standing Tall
In the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment, the Nexon goes up against formidable rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and the newly launched Mahindra XUV 3XO. However, the Nexon’s combination of striking design, feature-rich interior, powerful yet efficient engines, and Tata’s reputation for safety gives it a unique edge.
Fuel Efficiency: Easy on the Pocket
In a country where fuel efficiency is often the deciding factor in car purchases, the Nexon doesn’t disappoint. The petrol variants claim a mileage of 17.44 kmpl for the manual and 17.18 kmpl for the AMT.
The diesel variants are even more frugal, with claimed figures of 24.08 kmpl for the manual and 23.56 kmpl for the DCT. The CNG variant, while offering lower power output, compensates with an impressive claimed efficiency of 34.05 km/kg.
Customization: Make It Your Own
Understanding that modern car buyers value personalization, Tata offers the Nexon with a range of customization options. From dual-tone exterior color schemes to interior trim packages, there’s ample scope to make your Nexon stand out from the crowd. The #Dark edition, with its all-black theme, has been particularly popular among younger buyers looking for a more aggressive aesthetic.
After-Sales and Warranty: Peace of Mind Guaranteed
Tata has made significant strides in improving its after-sales service in recent years, and the Nexon benefits from this. The SUV comes with a standard 2-year/75,000 km warranty, which can be extended up to 5 years/1,50,000 km. Additionally, Tata offers 24×7 roadside assistance and a service schedule that’s designed to be light on the pocket.
Tata Nexon : A Compelling Package
The 2025 Tata Nexon is more than just an update; it’s a statement of intent from India’s homegrown auto giant. It showcases Tata’s ability to read the market, incorporate feedback, and deliver a product that’s not just competitive but often class-leading in many aspects.
For the urban dweller looking for a stylish, feature-packed SUV that doesn’t break the bank, the Nexon makes a compelling case. It’s equally at home navigating narrow city lanes as it is cruising down the highway or tackling light off-road trails. The variety of powertrains and trim levels means there’s likely a Nexon for every need and budget.
The improvements in design, technology, and performance address many of the criticisms leveled at previous generations, while building on the Nexon’s core strengths of safety, value, and robust build quality.
As India’s automotive landscape continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on safety, technology, and environmental consciousness, the Tata Nexon stands as a shining example of how a homegrown product can not just compete but often lead the pack. It’s not just a car; it’s a testament to India’s growing automotive prowess and a glimpse into the future of mobility in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Whether you’re a first-time car buyer looking to upgrade from a hatchback, a family in need of a versatile urban runabout, or an enthusiast seeking a fun-to-drive compact SUV, the 2025 Tata Nexon deserves a spot on your shortlist.
It’s more than just a mode of transport; it’s a companion ready to tackle whatever the diverse Indian landscape throws its way, all while keeping you comfortable, connected, and most importantly, safe.
In the end, the 2025 Tata Nexon isn’t just an evolution of a popular model; it’s a revolution in the compact SUV segment, setting new benchmarks and raising expectations.
It’s a proud flag-bearer for Make in India, showcasing what’s possible when innovation meets understanding of local needs. As it rolls off showroom floors and onto Indian roads, the Nexon is not just carrying passengers; it’s carrying the hopes and aspirations of a nation on the move.