Tata Nexon CNG: The compact SUV segment witnessed a revolutionary moment when Tata Motors introduced the Nexon CNG, becoming the first manufacturer to offer factory-fitted CNG in a turbocharged SUV. This bold move challenges conventional thinking about alternative fuels being limited to basic vehicles. The Nexon CNG doesn’t ask buyers to choose between environmental consciousness and driving enjoyment – it delivers both in a package that makes economic and ecological sense for modern Indian families.

Design That Doesn’t Compromise

The Nexon CNG maintains the striking design language that made the standard model a head-turner. The split headlamp setup with LED DRLs positioned high creates a distinctive face, while the main headlamp units integrate seamlessly into the bumper. The bold grille with humanity line running across creates visual width, making the compact SUV appear larger than its dimensions suggest. Most importantly, the CNG integration doesn’t alter the exterior aesthetics – no awkward badges or modifications announce the alternative fuel option.

The side profile retains the coupe-like roofline that gives the Nexon its sporty character. The dual-tone paint schemes with contrasting roof colors add personality without extra cost. The integrated roof rails aren’t just decorative – they’re functional units that handle real loads. Even the wheel designs remain unchanged from petrol variants, ensuring CNG buyers don’t feel shortchanged on style. The rear section with connected tail lamps maintains the premium appearance that elevates the Nexon above typical budget offerings.

Interior Space Management Brilliance

The real engineering triumph becomes apparent inside. Unlike aftermarket CNG conversions that sacrifice significant boot space, Tata’s innovative twin-cylinder technology minimizes space loss. The cylinders integrate cleverly into the boot floor, preserving usability for daily needs. With 321 liters available, the boot still accommodates weekend luggage or weekly shopping runs – a feat no other CNG vehicle in this segment achieves.

The cabin remains identical to standard variants, offering the same premium feel. The dashboard features soft-touch materials on upper surfaces, while the floating touchscreen infotainment system provides modern connectivity. Seat comfort doesn’t suffer from any modifications, with both front and rear passengers enjoying the same support and space as petrol versions. The flat floor at the rear improves middle passenger comfort, making five-adult journeys feasible for shorter distances.

Powertrain Innovation That Works

The 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine represents a breakthrough in CNG technology. This marks the first time a turbocharged engine has been offered with factory-fitted CNG in India, challenging beliefs about compatibility issues. In CNG mode, the engine produces 100 PS and 170 Nm of torque – figures that embarrass naturally aspirated petrol engines in the segment. The turbocharger ensures adequate performance even with CNG’s lower calorific value.

Switching between petrol and CNG happens seamlessly via dashboard controls, with the engine automatically starting on petrol before switching to CNG when warm. The six-speed manual transmission (AMT available in petrol mode) offers precise shifts with well-chosen ratios that extract maximum efficiency. Real-world CNG consumption hovers around 24-26 km/kg, translating to running costs lower than even diesel variants. The 60-liter petrol tank ensures extended range when CNG stations are unavailable.

Driving Dynamics Unchanged

Perhaps the most impressive aspect is how little the driving experience changes with CNG. The suspension setup, already well-tuned for Indian conditions, handles the minimal weight addition without any noticeable difference. The turbocharged engine’s characteristics mean acceleration remains sprightly rather than sluggish – a common CNG complaint. Highway overtaking remains confident, while city driving benefits from the strong mid-range torque.

The steering feel and feedback remain unchanged, maintaining the connected feel that makes the Nexon enjoyable to drive. Body roll stays well controlled despite the slightly higher center of gravity from roof-mounted equipment. The ride quality continues to impress, absorbing bad roads without unsettling occupants. Even the turning radius remains tight, ensuring urban maneuverability doesn’t suffer.

Technology and Safety Maintained

Tata didn’t strip features to offset CNG system costs. The touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay remains, as does the premium sound system. Automatic climate control, cruise control, and push-button start continue depending on variant choice. The digital instrument cluster provides CNG-specific information including cylinder pressure and consumption data, helping drivers maximize efficiency.

Safety equipment remains comprehensive with dual front airbags standard and ESP available on higher variants. The five-star Global NCAP rating applies to the CNG variant too, as the structural integrity remains uncompromised. The CNG system itself incorporates multiple safety features including thermal sensors, pressure relief devices, and automatic shut-off valves that exceed regulatory requirements.

Toyota Rumion – New features model comes with powerful engine

Economic and Environmental Sense

The Nexon CNG’s pricing positions it strategically between petrol and diesel variants, making the payback period for the additional investment remarkably short for regular drivers. Lower running costs combine with reduced carbon emissions to create a compelling ownership proposition. Government incentives for CNG vehicles and expanding CNG infrastructure strengthen the case further.

Tata Nexon CNG The Future Arrives Early

The Tata Nexon CNG represents more than just another fuel option – it’s a glimpse into the future of sustainable mobility. By proving that alternative fuels don’t require compromising on style, space, or performance, Tata has created a template others will surely follow. For environmentally conscious buyers who refuse to sacrifice driving enjoyment or practicality, the Nexon CNG delivers a solution that seemed impossible until now. It’s not just a CNG vehicle that happens to be an SUV – it’s a proper SUV that happens to run on CNG.