Tata Nexon CNG vs rivals: price, specifications comparison

Having showcased the Tata Nexon iCNG for the first time in February this year, the Indian brand has finally announced prices: the CNG-powered Nexon is priced between Rs 8.99 lakh and Rs 14.59 lakh. In the compact SUV space, there are three other models that get a factory-fitted CNG kit: Maruti’s Brezza and Fronx, and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. We explore how the Nexon iCNG fares against its rivals.

Tata Nexon CNG vs rivals: Dimensions

Tata Nexon iCNG vs rivals: dimensions
	Nexon	Fronx	Brezza	Taisor
Length	3995mm	3995mm	3995mm	3995mm
Width	1804mm	1765mm	1790mm	1765mm
Height	1620mm	1550mm	1685mm	1550mm
Wheelbase	2498mm	2520mm	2500mm	2520mm
Tyres	215/60 R16	195/60 R16	215/60 R16	195/60 R16
Boot space	321 litres	-	-	-
CNG tank	60 litres	55 litres	55 litres	55 litres

Compared to its CNG-powered competition, the Nexon iCNG is the widest and features the largest CNG tank. However, Tata has the shortest wheelbase among its rivals. Interestingly, while the Fronx and Taisor – essentially badge-engineered versions of each other – have the longest wheelbase lengths, they are smaller overall than the other two compact SUVs here. All models come with 16-inch wheels, though the Nexon and Brezza are equipped with thicker rubber.

The Nexon is the only model with a dual-cylinder CNG kit, which is said to help improve boot space compared to the single-cylinder kits seen in the Fronx, Brezza, and Taisor. Tata’s CNG compact SUV has a luggage capacity of 321 litres. However, boot space figures for the CNG-powered Marutis and Toyota have not yet been revealed by the brands. For reference, the petrol versions of the Brezza and Taisor (and the Fronx) are rated at 328 litres and 308 litres, respectively.

Tata Nexon CNG vs rivals: Powertrains

Tata Nexon iCNG vs rivals: powertrain
	Nexon	Fronx	Brezza	Taisor
Engine type	3-cyl, turbocharged	4-cyl, naturally aspirated	4-cyl, naturally aspirated	4-cyl, naturally aspirated
Engine capacity	1199cc	1197cc	1462cc	1197cc
Power	100hp	77.5hp	87.8hp	77.5hp
Torque	170Nm	98.5Nm	121.5Nm	98.5Nm
Gearbox	6MT	5MT	5MT	5MT
Fuel efficiency	24km/kg	28.51km/kg	25.51km/kg	28.51km/kg

As we’ve said before, the Nexon iCNG is the first turbocharged CNG model in India, which accounts for the fact that it has the highest output figures here. Naturally, the Brezza’s larger displacement engine is more powerful than the smaller 1.2-litre units in the Fronx and Taisor, but is less frugal. However, the Nexon iCNG has the lowest efficiency figure among its rivals. All models here get a manual gearbox only, though the Nexon is equipped with a 6-speed unit, compared to the 5-speed ones seen on the Marutis and Toyota.

Tata Nexon CNG vs rivals: Price

Tata Nexon iCNG vs rivals: price (ex-showroom, India)
	Nexon	Fronx	Brezza	Taisor
Price range (Rs, lakh)	8.99-14.59	8.47-9.33	8.72	9.29-10.65

The Fronx is the most affordable CNG compact SUV here, and Maruti offers it in the entry-level Sigma and lower-spec Delta variants only. Next comes the Nexon iCNG, which is available in eight variants, with prices for the range-topping, well-equipped Fearless + PS variant reaching Rs 14.59 lakh. Meanwhile, the Taisor CNG is only available in a single entry-level E variant, while the CNG-equipped Brezza is available in base LXi and mid-spec VXi form.

On paper, the Nexon CNG has the advantage in terms of the number of options for buyers to choose from, premium features available on higher variants, width, CNG tank size, and output figures. However, the two Maruti compact SUVs and Toyota’s version of the Fronx make a compelling case for themselves in terms of fuel efficiency.

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