In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles, the 2023 TATA Nexon EV arrives as a refreshing and significant upgrade to an already beloved electric SUV. Having reigned supreme in India’s electric vehicle segment for over three years, the Nexon EV’s latest iteration brings a fresh face, a tech-laden interior, and enhancements to its electric powertrain. Let’s delve into the details and find out if this revamped champ retains its throne as the best electric SUV in the market.
TATA Nexon EV : A Striking Exterior Evolution
The Nexon EV has undergone an exterior makeover that seamlessly blends modernity with subtle reminiscences of its predecessor. Inspired by the Curvv Concept, it features a body-colored fascia—a signature element of electric vehicles. The high-placed LED DRLs with sequential turn indicators, borrowed from the conventional Nexon, add a touch of style. A noteworthy addition is the connecting light bar that serves as a charging indicator.
TATA has also incorporated vertical air curtains on both sides of the bumper to enhance aerodynamics. The redesigned 16-inch wheels, fitted with MRF rubber, are not only stylish but also contribute to improved efficiency. The rear profile stands out with its connecting tail lamps and a neatly integrated rear spoiler that conceals the inverted wiper. Rather than flashy blue accents, the Nexon EV opts for elegance, boasting a dual-tone paint scheme and strategically placed EV badges.
The Futuristic Cabin
Step inside the TATA Nexon EV facelift, and you’ll be greeted by a thoroughly modern cabin available in three interior options: Empowered, Fearless, and Creative. The range-topping Empowered variant, with its cream and black theme, exudes an airy and premium ambiance. The 12.3-inch touchscreen takes center stage and is even larger than what’s offered in the fossil-fuel-powered Nexon. Loaded with features, it includes an air purifier, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an impressive JBL sound system with eight distinct modes. The touchscreen can also double as an entertainment screen while you wait for the battery to recharge.
The 10.25-inch fully digital driver display offers three display modes, even capable of displaying navigation. However, there’s an odd caveat—it won’t function if you’re using Google Maps on an iOS device. The center console houses a stubby gear lever and a haptic panel for the air conditioning system. While the controls are user-friendly, integrating approximately 8-10 controls into the panel requires some time to build muscle memory, and touch feedback would have enhanced the overall experience.
The front seats now offer increased bolstering, translating into superior comfort and support. While both seats feature ventilation, the driver’s side is the only one adjustable for height. The Nexon EV boasts a new retro-modern two-spoke steering wheel with a flat bottom and an illuminated logo on the piano finish.
Notable features include a multi-deck cooled glovebox and a center console-mounted pad for wireless charging. Although bottles can be stored in any of the four doors, the omission of cup holders in the front is a noticeable drawback. The Nexon EV also serves as a power source on wheels, with two 45-watt Type-C ports and a 15-amp plug on the external charging flap—a feature referred to as V2L (Vehicle to Load) by TATA.
The rear seats can accommodate three passengers comfortably, although taller passengers may find headroom slightly restricted. Ample legroom is available, and there’s an armrest with two cup holders. While advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are missing, the Nexon EV offers a range of passive safety features, including six airbags, front parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and an electronic parking brake.
The Joy of Driving
Beneath the surface, the electric motor and battery pack have undergone crucial but subtle upgrades. Tata now offers two versions: ‘Medium Range’ (MR) and ‘Long Range’ (LR), both equipped with the same 30kWh and 40.5kWh battery packs that power the Gen II motor. These batteries are nearly 20 kilograms lighter, with the former generating 127bhp and the latter 143bhp, both boasting 215Nm of peak torque. Both versions come standard with a 7.2kW AC charger capable of charging the battery from 10 to 100 percent in six hours.
With these upgrades, the TATA Nexon EV claims an extended range. The LR version now offers a 465-kilometer range (12km more), while the MR variant boasts a range of 325 kilometers (13km more). However, the real-world impact of these enhancements may not be immediately evident.
The The Nexon EV remains quick off the line, delivering an exhilarating experience thanks to the instant torque of its electric motor. The introduction of regen modes via paddle shifters is a welcome change, eliminating the need to search for a button on the center console. The Sport mode enables the EV to reach a top speed of 150kmph with remarkable acceleration. For everyday tasks and short highway drives, the City mode offers adequate performance.
The Nexon EV offers a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and potholes
