Tata Altroz vs Tata Nexon

Tata Motors has strengthened its presence in the Indian passenger vehicle market by launching two new offerings: the Altroz premium hatchback and the Nexon compact SUV. Thanks to their attractive styling, modern features, and capable real-world performance, both models have received an encouraging response. 

But which Tata model should you invest in? In this detailed comparison, we will explore how the Altroz and Nexon compare on crucial parameters.

Tata Altroz vs Tata Nexon - Variants

First, let us examine the pricing and variants on offer. Tata Altroz is priced between Rs. 7.71 lakh and Rs. 13.20 lakh for the petrol and diesel variants. The Altroz range starts with the XE, followed by XM, XT, XZ and XZ+ trims. The engine options include a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a peppier 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel. Transmissions consist of a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. A factory-fitted CNG version is also available on the XT and XZ trims.

The Tata Nexon is priced between Rs. 9.01 lakh and Rs. 18.44 lakh for the petrol and diesel models. It has four trim variants: Smart, Pure, Creative, and Fearless. Engine choices include a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel mated to a 6-speed or AMT automatic. The petrol also gets the option of a 7-speed DCT automatic.

Analysing the pricing, the Nexon slightly undercuts the Altroz at the entry-level XE trim. But as you go up the variant ladder, the Nexon becomes significantly more expensive. Top-end Altroz variants cost Rs. 10-13 lakh, while the Nexon XZ+ sits north of Rs. 14-19 lakh. Hence, the Altroz gives you more features for money in the mid and top-end. The additional 7-speed DCT gearbox in the Nexon adds to its pricing premium over the Altroz.

Check out:

• Tata Altroz Variants

• Tata Nexon Variants

Tata Altroz vs Tata Nexon - Dimensions

Though positioned in different segments, the Altroz and Nexon share similar dimensions. The Altroz measures 3990 mm long, 1755mm wide and 1523mm tall with a 2501mm wheelbase. The Nexon, in comparison, is 3995 mm long, 1804 mm wide, and 1606mm tall with a marginally smaller 2498 mm wheelbase.

Inside the cabin, rear seat space is a vital criterion for Indian car buyers. The Nexon SUV has a slight advantage due to its broader dimensions, upright roofline, and flatter floor. The middle rear passenger in the Altroz sits higher, with their knees pointing upwards. Nexon also offers better headroom and shoulder room all around.

However, the Altroz is not cramped, and adults can sit comfortably at the rear. It is just that the Nexon’s extra cabin width makes it easier for 3 people to sit abreast over longer journeys. Regarding boot volume, there is not much separating the two - 345 litres for the Altroz and 382 litres for the Nexon. Both cars have 60:40 split rear seats, allowing boot capacity expansion.

Check out:

• Tata Altroz Dimensions

• Tata Nexon Dimensions

Tata Altroz vs Tata Nexon - Exterior Design

Visually, the Altroz and Nexon are a study in contrast. Altroz follows contemporary European styling with its slim LED headlamps, wide grille and coupe-like sloping roofline. The sharply creased bodywork and details like the blacked-out pillars highlight its sporty and dynamic design.

Nexon, on the other hand, opts for a more muscular and upright SUV design language. The tall height, flared wheel arches, bash plate accents and high-set lamps give it a tough persona. Instead of a sloping coupe roof, the Nexon gets a flat-top profile, emphasising its interior practicality.

Both cars get alloy wheels, projector headlamps, LED tail lights and plenty of exterior customisation options. You can add sports body kits, chrome accents, contrast roof colours, etc. While the Altroz looks lower and more extended and emphasises its sporty hatchback body, the Nexon's higher ground clearance and plastic cladding strongly signal its SUV character. Test drive both cars to see which design works better for your tastes.

Tata Altroz vs Tata Nexon - Interior and Features 

Step inside the cabin and dual-tone black and beige interiors greet couriers in both models. However, the dashboard layout differs significantly. The Altroz goes for a clean and fuss-free look with a flat-top design and black piano surfaces. The circular climate control knobs and digital displays also enhance the premium ambience.

In contrast, the Nexon's dash mimics the exterior styling with a bold and chunky design. You see exterior cues like the humanity line on the inside, too. The all-black theme looks sporty, but the plastics feel harder and scratchier than the Altroz. The same goes for the leather seat upholstery, which feels premium in the Altroz.

As for features, top-end variants of both models are loaded with goodies. They get automatic climate control, rear parking camera, push-button start, auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and steering-mounted controls. However, only the Nexon offers added equipment like a sunroof, wearable smart key, cruise control, cornering lamps and an electrochromic IRVM.

Regarding the infotainment system, Altroz claws back some lost ground. Its touchscreen integrates Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity, which the Nexon needs to catch up on. 

In terms of safety, both cars offer similar equipment, such as dual front airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors, seat belt reminders, and corner stability control, which are standard. But the Nexon adds side and curtain airbags, traction control, an electronic stability program, and brake disc wiping.

Overall, the Altroz aced the Nexon regarding interior finish and infotainment quality, but the Nexon counter-punched with added features and safety equipment.

Check out:

• Tata Altroz All Specifications

• Tata Nexon All Specifications

Tata Altroz vs Tata Nexon - Performance, Mileage 

Under the hood, the Altroz petrol delivers 86bhp and 113Nm while the Nexon petrol makes 118.2bhp and 170 Nm. This power advantage is shown in Nexon's performance, which feels noticeably quicker, especially in the mid-range. The turbo-petrol Altroz with 110bhp helps bridge the gap somewhat, but the Nexon still feels punchier when driving.

When it comes to mileage, the Altroz noses ahead. The petrol Altroz returns 19.5kmpl compared to 17 kmpl in the Nexon. The diesel Altroz is even more frugal at 25.11kmpl while the Nexon diesel is rated at 22 kmpl. If running costs are essential, the Altroz makes a strong case with its superior fuel efficiency.

Also check,

• Tata Altroz Mileage

• Tata Nexon Mileage

Which One Should You Buy?

At the end of our detailed comparison, the Altroz and Nexon emerge as compelling offerings that are well-matched in many aspects. The Altroz makes a strong case for itself as a premium hatchback with its European-inspired design, well-appointed cabin and energetic drivetrains. It fits the bill nicely for private car buyers as a sporty, youthful, efficient hatchback.

But the Nexon strikes an equally appealing formula as a muscular compact SUV. Its tall boy stance, butch styling and road presence give it an undeniable personality that many buyers will love. The Nexon's interior space feature list and versatile petrol and diesel engines add to its appeal.

Choosing between the two Tata models ultimately depends on your priorities and requirements. If you want a sharp-looking hatchback focused on driving pleasure, the Altroz is the pick. On the other hand, the Nexon is ideal for buyers who value features, practicality, and the higher seating of SUV style.

Both cars are closely matched regarding interior space, performance, equipment, and safety. Altroz wins for exterior styling, cabin quality and fuel efficiency. However, Nexon aces it for interior room, comfort, features and value.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some of the most common questions and their answers related to Tata Altroz vs Tata Nexon

Which model has more powerful engines and acceleration?

The Nexon has a transparent edge regarding engine power and outright acceleration. Its 1.2L turbo-petrol makes 120PS and 170Nm, which helps the Nexon sprint quicker than the 86bhp naturally aspirated petrol Altroz. 

2. Which car has better mileage and running costs?

The Altroz delivers superior fuel efficiency compared to the Nexon SUV. The petrol Altroz is rated at 19.5 kmpl, almost 3 kmpl more than the Nexon's 17 kmpl. 

3. Which model has more premium interiors and features?

The Altroz's cabin feels plusher and upmarket than the Nexon's pragmatic interior. Materials like the leatherette seats, floating island touchscreen, and textured dash inserts look more premium in the Altroz. 

4. Which car has more rear seat and boot space?

The Nexon takes this round with its broader dimensions and flat rear floor. Rear seat space is much more generous, allowing 3 adults to sit more comfortably than the Altroz's slightly cramped middle seat. 

5. Which model performs better on the safety front?

The Nexon edges this round courtesy of additional protection features over the Altroz. While both have standard dual airbags, parking sensors, and ISOFIX, top Nexon variants add side and curtain airbags, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, and brake disc wiping tech. 

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