Top 5 Tata Nexon Rivals: Powerful SUVs on a Budget

Tata Nexon: A Quick Overview

Built on Tata's distinct design philosophy, Tata Nexon blends elegance with muscular elements. In terms of the exterior, the sequential LED DRLs with the Bi-Function Full LED Lamps add style to the front. The R16 diamond-cut alloy wheels with aero inserts flanked by sporty wheel arches enhance the sides. The key highlight of the back is the X-factor taillamp with a welcome and goodbye function. 

The premium Benecke Kalikotm ventilated leatherette seats on the insides make the cabin feel salon-like. The 2-spoke steering wheel with the illuminated Tata logo and the next-gen touch panel give the cabin a futuristic feel. There is an advanced infotainment system and instrument panel with high-tech connectivity. Besides, the cabin is spacious, with ample leg and head space for front and rear passengers, ensuring well-rounded comfort for every ride. 

Under the hood, the Nexon offers petrol and diesel options. There is an 1199cc 1.2-litre Turbocharged Revotron engine (petrol) and a 1497cc 1.5-litre Turbocharged Revotorq engine (diesel). The former has 5MT, 6MT, 6AMT, and 7DCA gearbox choices, while the latter diesel engine has either a 6MT or a 6AMT gearbox. 

The Tata Nexon has earned five stars in Global NCAP and Child Safety Rating. Thanks to its powerful build and amenities, it offers top-notch safety for all occupants. The exact features and powertrain combinations depend on the variant selected. 

Key Features and Specifications

Let's take a look at the key features of the Tata Nexon.

Comfort and Infotainment Features

• LED Headlamps and DRLs

• 2 Spoke Steering Wheel with Illuminated Logo

• 7-inch or 10.25-inch Touchscreen Infotainment by HARMAN (depending on the variant)

• Voice Assisted Electric Sunroof

• Electrically Adjustable ORVM

• 4-inch Persona-based Digital Instrument Cluster

• R16 Alloy Wheel with Aero Inserts

• Push Button Start Stop 

• Height Adjustable Driver Seat 

• Cooled Glovebox

• Cruise Control

• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

• 10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster with Navigation Display (Top variants)

• Grand Floor Console with Armrest 

• Xpress Cool

• 10.25-inch Slim Bezel Touchscreen Infotainment System by HARMAN (Top variants)

• iRA Connected Vehicle Features (Top variants)

• JBL Branded Speaker system (Top variant)

Safety Features

• 6 Airbags 

• Electronic Stability Program

• ISOFIX

• 360° HD Surround View System with Front Parking Sensors

• Blind View Monitor

• Auto Headlamps with Rain Sensing Wipers

• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

• Emergency Call (E-Call) 

• Breakdown Call (B-Call)

• Auto Dimming IRVM

• 3 Point ELR

• Rear Defogger

• ABS with EBD

Specifications

• Length: 3995 mm

• Width: 1804 mm

• Height: 1620 mm

• Wheelbase: 2498 mm

• Ground Clearance: 208 mm

• Boot Space: 382 litres

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 44 litres

• Max Engine Power (petrol): 118.27bhp@5500rpm

• Max Engine Torque (petrol): 170Nm@1750-4000rpm

• Max Engine Power (diesel): 113.31bhp@3750rpm

• Max Engine Torque (diesel):  260Nm@1500-2750rpm

• Mileage (petrol): 17.01 km/l to 17.44 km/l

• Mileage (diesel): 23.23 km/l to 24.08 km/l

Price Range and Variants

The Tata Nexon has four broad variants: Smart, Pure, Creative, and Fearless. There is a Dark edition, which is available only with the top-spec Creative and Fearless trims. The facelift now gets three new Smart variants. The price range for the Tata Nexon falls between ₹ eight lakhs to ₹ 15.80 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). Let's look at the variant-wise pricing of the Nexon (all prices are ex-showroom Delhi). 

• Base Model: Smart Opt - ₹ 8 lakhs

• Top Model: Fearless Plus S Dark Diesel AMT - ₹ 15.80 lakhs

• Smart Variants: ₹ 8 lakhs to ₹10.50 lakhs

• Pure Variants: ₹ 9.80 lakhs to ₹ 12.30 lakhs

• Creative Variants: ₹ 11.10 lakhs to ₹ 14. 75 lakhs

• Fearless Variants: ₹12. 60 lakhs to ₹ 15.80 lakhs

Check out: Tata Nexon Variants

Reasons for Its Popularity

Since its release, the Tata Nexon has become an immense success. Its stunning looks, fuel efficiency, broad variant range, and affordable price bracket contributed to its popularity. Besides, the features are top-notch and well-distributed among each variant. The iRA technology, the choice of Revotron or Revotorq engines, and four transmission choices gave customers plenty to choose from. 

With the Nexon, Tata offered the Indian consumer base a chance to experience the luxury of an SUV on a budget. Tata sold 1,71,697 units in the fiscal year 2024 and surpassed its closest market rival, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza. The Nexon has been the best-selling SUV in the country for three consecutive years. 

Top 5 Tata Nexon Alternatives

Below, we have described the top five alternatives to Tata Nexon. 

1. Maruti Suzuki Brezza

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza is considered the closest alternative to the Tata Nexon. Let's examine its unique features. 

Design and Exterior

The Brezza has a youthful design language and a commanding stance. It has a neat beltline and bold geometric alloy wheels. The moulding and panelling along the body give the SUV its distinct shape. The dual LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs and tail lamps add style and functionality.

Read More:

• Tata Nexon Dimensions

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The dual-tone (black and brown) interiors are classy and spacious with ambient lighting. The silver accents add style. There are rear AC vents, USB charging ports and a wireless charging dock. There is a 7-inch SmartPlay Studio and SmartPlay Pro for the lower variants. The top variant gets a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ system. There is ARKAMYS surround sound as well.

Check out:

• Tata Nexon Interior

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza Interior

Engine Options and Performance

The Brezza has a 1.5 l Advanced K-Series Dual Jet, Dual VVT petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. It also has a 1.5 l Advanced K-Series Engine with S-CNG technology mated to a 5MT gearbox. The Brezza offers impressive and smooth performance. 

Safety Features

It has six airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat mounts, a Parking Sensor with an Infographic Display, Impact-Sensing Auto Door Unlock, a Suzuki TECT Body, Speed-Sensing Auto Door Lock, a Dual Horn, and a Low Fuel Warning Light as a key safety offerings.  

Also Read:

• Tata Nexon All Specifications

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza All Speccifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Brezza has four broad variants: LXi, VXi, ZXi, and ZXi+. The CNG variant is not available with the ZXi+ variant. The price range is ₹ 8.34 lakhs to ₹14.14 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). The Brezza emerges as a value-for-money option based on its features and performance. 

Pros and Cons Compared to the Nexon

• The Brezza is more suitable for highways and off-road excursions.

• It is taller and offers slightly more legroom. 

• The Nexon scores high in safety as compared to the Brezza. 

2. Renault Kiger

Here are the key details of the Renault Kiger. 

Design and Exterior

The Kiger has a striking design with a bold yet minimal front fascia. The C-shaped signature LED tail lamps and a reclining roof enhance the aesthetic. The R16 diamond alloy wheels with sporty red callipers and tailgate with chrome insert add to its style. 

Read More: Renault Kiger Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The interiors have chrome accents tastefully placed around the cabin elements. A 3-spoke steering wheel with a leather insert and red stitching adds style. The quilted embossed seat upholstery with red stitching and red fade dashboard accent enhances its peppy appeal. There is an 8-inch display link floating touchscreen, a 7-inch digital cluster, wireless smartphone connectivity, and 3D sound by ARKAMYS.

Check out: Renault Kiger Interior

Engine Options and Performance

The Kiger has two petrol engine choices: a 1-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine. The transmission options are 5-speed MT, easy-R AMT, and x-tronic CVT. The multi-point fuel injection and advanced suspension set-up offer a smooth ride quality. 

Safety Features

The Kiger comes with four airbags for top specs and dual airbags as standard and 15 + advanced safety features like ABS with EBD, electronic stability programme (ESP), pedestrian protection, hill start assist (HSA), rear parking sensors, a rear parking camera, traction control system and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). 

Also Read: Renault Kiger All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The five broad variants of the Kiger, RXE, RXL, RXT, RXT (O) and RXZ come at a price range of ₹6 lakhs to ₹11.23 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). The Kiger is quite cost-effective when considering its ample offerings and performance. The competitive price range allows customers to experience a feature-rich SUV on a budget. 

Pros and Cons Compared to the Nexon

• The Kiger is much more affordable than the Nexon. 

• The Nexon stays ahead in performance. 

• The Kiger has good fuel efficiency.

3. Hyundai Venue

The Hyundai Venue is considered another close alternative to the Nexon. Let's examine its features.  

Design and Exterior

The Venue has a prominent dark chrome grille at the front with LED DRLs and positioning lamps. The chrome-finish outside door handles and R16 diamond-cut alloys enhance the sporty side appearance. The connecting LED tail lamps at the back look futuristic. 

Read More: Hyundai Venue Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The Venue has a soothing and spacious cabin space with 2-step rear reclining seats, a 4-way power-adjusting driver seat, and ambient sounds of nature. The 8-inch HD infotainment system has smartphone connectivity, navigation, sports updates, and more. The digital cluster with colour TFT MID offers key driving information. It also gets a cooled glovebox, a fully automatic temperature control with a digital display, and an auto-healthy air purifier. 

Check out: Hyundai Venue Interior

Engine Options and Performance

It gets three engine choices: a 1.2 l MPi Kappa petrol, a 1.0 l Turbo GDi Kappa petrol and a 1.5 l U2 CRDi VGT diesel engine. Transmission options are a 5-speed manual for the MPi, a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed DCT for the Turbo GDi, and a 6-speed manual transmission for the diesel variants.

The Venue is quite lightweight. However, it offers decent road performance and is easy to manoeuvre. 

Safety Features

It gets six airbags, Electronic stability control (ESC), Brake assist system (BAS), ABS with EBD, Vehicle stability management (VSM), Hill assist control (HAC), Parking Assist, Tyre pressure monitoring system (Highline), Impact sensing auto door unlock, Speed sensing auto door lock, Rear defogger with timer and High-speed alert as its main safety amenities. 

Also Read: Hyundai Venue All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Venue has five broad variants: S, SX, SX(O), E, and S+/S(O). The price range is ₹7.94 lakhs to ₹13.48 lakhs(ex-showroom Delhi). The Venue is budget-friendly, with variants well-distributed between the under-ten and under-fifteen price ranges. 

Pros and Cons Compared to the Nexon

• The Venue has more infotainment features.

• The Venue has less shoulder room than Nexon.

• The suspension seems stiff compared to the Nexon. 

4. Mahindra XUV 3XO

The 3XO is a more contemporary SUV with a futuristic appeal. Let's check out its key offerings. 

Design and Exterior

It has a sleek, minimal front grille with a black piano finish, complemented by LED headlamps and DRLs. The choice of R16 or R17 diamond-cut alloy wheels gives the car a unique touch. At the back, the infinity LED tail lamp gives the car a unique touch. 

Read More: Mahindra XUV 3XO Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The interiors are plush and elegant, with an ivory theme and a soft-touch leatherette wrapping on the dashboard and door trims. The 3XO gets the top-notch premium Harman Kardon Audio System. The main infotainment elements include a 10.25-inch HD infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital cluster with built-in Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Other features include a Skyroof, Dual Zone Climate Control, and 65 W USB-C charging.

Check out: Mahindra XUV 3XO Interior

Engine Options and Performance

It gets three engine choices. It has a 1.2 l mStallion Turbocharged Multipoint Fuel Injection engine, a 1.2 l mStallion Turbocharged Intercooled Gasoline Direct Injection Engine, and a 1.5 l Turbo Diesel Engine with CRDe. The transmission choices are 6-speed manual, 6-speed AMT, and 6-speed AT. 

Safety Features

It has six airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, a Speed-Sensing Auto Door Lock, a 360-degree camera, a Tire Pressure Monitor, Child Safety Locks, and central locking as key safety features. It has over 35 safety amenities. 

Also Read: Mahindra XUV 3XO All Specifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The XUV 3XO comes at a price range of ₹ 7.49 lakhs to ₹ 15.49 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi) for its five main variants: MX1, MX2, MX3, AX5, and AX7. The 3XO has a competitive price range. The middle variants are the most valuable for money and have sufficient features. The top-spec comes with the most advanced tech and amenities and is ideal for customers who prefer savvy features. 

Pros and Cons Compared to the Nexon

• The Nexon has better fuel efficiency.

• The 3XO has more contemporary LED styling. 

• The 3XO has more width with ample shoulder space and leg space. 

• The 3XO has a greater wheelbase than the Nexon.

• The Nexon is more fuel-efficient.

5. Nissan Magnite

Here's a brief overview of the Nissan Magnite. 

Design and Exterior

The Nissan Magnite is a charismatic SUV with a dominant front grille and sleek Bi-Projector LED Headlamps with LED Turn Indicators. The L-shaped Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) and LED Fog Lamps complement its look. At the side, the R16 diamond-cut alloy wheels and chrome door handles carry forward its charm. 

Read More: Nissan Magnite Dimensions

Interior Features and Space

The interiors are spacious, with a couple of seat distances at the front and ample rear knee room. The steering wheel has integrated audio and meter controls. There are advanced PM2.5 Filters, rear AC vents, and height-adjustable functions on the driver's seat. The NissanConnect comes with 50+ features and smartwatch connectivity. There is a 7-inch TFT display and an 8-inch Floating Touchscreen infotainment system. 

Check out: Nissan Magnite Interior

Engine Options and Performance

It has a powerful 1.0 l Turbo HRAO engine and a 1.0 l B4D petrol engine. The transmission choices are a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, a CVT option for the turbo engine, and a 5-speed AMT for the naturally aspirated petrol engine. It is extremely stable at high speeds and offers remarkable on-road performance. 

Safety Features

The Magnite comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, TPMS, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Traction Control System (TCS), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Anti Roll Bar, Child Lock, Automatic Warning Hazard on Heavy Braking, ISOFIX, and Impact Sensing Unlock as the major safety features. 

Also Read: Nissan Magnite All Speifications

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Magnite has four broad variants: the XE, XL, XV, and XV Premium. The price range is from ₹ 6 lakhs to ₹11.27 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi). The Magnite sits comfortably in the affordable SUV segment and is a worthy investment. 

Pros and Cons Compared to the Nexon

• The Magnite has fewer airbags

• Better high-speed stability.

• Advanced features concerning pricing.

• It has only one fuel choice. 

Comparison Table: Tata Nexon vs Alternatives

The table below compares the key specifications and features of the Tata Nexon and its alternatives.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Compact SUV

There are a few key factors you should take into account when selecting a compact SUV. Here's an overview:

• Budget And Overall Value: Asses your budget and financial situation and look for variants and models that fall within this range. Check the car's overall value for money quotient and how it facilitates your car-buying purpose. 

• Design Preferences: Consider the type of SUV you like: elegant, sporty, muscular, or a mix. Different models and makes are available, each with distinct silhouettes, body panelling, and design elements. 

• Space Requirements: Evaluate your family size and what you are buying the car for. Space might not be a factor if it is for solo travelling. If you are looking for a family-friendly SUV, look for seating capacity, width and boot space. 

• Performance Needs: Look at fuel and transmission choices matching your driving style. Check the drive modes available, the suspension system on board and how well its overall reaction time is. Opt for a test drive to best assess the performance.

• Fuel Efficiency: Whether buying a car for off-road excursions or everyday commutes, check the SUV's fuel efficiency and align it with your needs. It will ultimately determine the car's long-term cost-efficiency. 

• Safety Features: Safety is paramount in any automobile. Check for standard and advanced safety features, such as the number of airbags, ABS with EBD, child safety features, sensors, and radars employed for safety needs. Also, see the ADAS offerings. 

• After-Sales Service and Maintenance Costs: Consider after-sales service a major factor when buying a car. Look for efficient customer service and resolution. Go through reviews for better judgment. 

Which Tata Nexon Alternative Is Right for You?

The Tata Nexon is a powerful contender in the SUV market. Since its inception, it has garnered much acclaim and some noteworthy market competitors, viz., the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, the Nissan Magnite, the Renault Kiger, the Hyundai Venue, and the Mahindra XUV 3XO. Each alternative has its distinct offerings and attributes. The disparities in terms of features and specs, as discussed above, are what make them unique. 

The right alternative depends on your tastes, requirements, and budget. Consider the factors mentioned in the article to make an informed decision. Each alternative mentioned is competitive and offers sufficient features and performance. 

The Indian SUV market has always been highly competitive, with powerful contenders. The competition will only rise with leading carmakers undergoing constant research and development to design and manufacture more advanced SUVs. The Tata Nexon and its alternatives have remained prominent contenders throughout the years based on their focus on what truly matters: performance. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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