Tata Nexon CNG will be offered with a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine, first in industry
Tata Motors is preparing to make a significant addition to its lineup with the introduction of the Tata Nexon CNG, slated for launch in September. This move marks the entry of India’s first turbo-petrol CNG SUV, expanding the versatile Nexon range, which already includes petrol, diesel and electric variants.
The Nexon CNG will be equipped with a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, expected to produce 118 BHP and 170 Nm of peak torque. Notably, the CNG variant will utilise Tata’s twin CNG cylinder technology, a feature seen in other Tata models but paired for the first time with a turbocharged petrol engine in an SUV.
The standard configuration will likely include a five-speed manual gearbox. However, there is speculation that an automatic transmission option, potentially similar to the AMT gearbox seen in the CNG variants of the Tiago and Tigor, could be offered. If confirmed, this would enhance the appeal of the Nexon CNG to a broader audience seeking the convenience of an automatic transmission alongside the cost benefits of CNG.
The Nexon CNG’s introduction aims to compete directly with the Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG in the compact SUV segment. While the exact pricing is yet to be announced, it is expected that the CNG variant will carry a premium of approximately Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 80,000 over the petrol version.
Tata Motors’ strategy with the Nexon CNG shows a new industry trend towards offering multiple powertrain options within a single model lineup, catering to diverse consumer preferences. The addition of a CNG option is particularly timely as it offers a more economical and environmentally friendly alternative, aligning with the growing demand for cleaner fuel options in the Indian market.
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