Tata Nexon iCNG Review: Efficiency of CNG, power of turbo

A decade back CNG was only considered for small entry-level cars and the fleet segment when prices of petrol and diesel started to shoot up. With the Government of India pushing for alternative fuels, CNG as an option has gained wider acceptance in recent years. Even private consumers who have a high daily usage have started to opt for CNG.

The latest addition to the country’s CNG range is the Tata Nexon iCNG which was first introduced as a concept at the 2023 Auto Expo. It is the fourth CNG car in Tata Motors’ lineup after Tiago, Tigor, and Punch. However, it holds the distinction of being the first of many, which we’ll highlight as we move forward.

Tata Nexon iCNG Review: Design

There is no change whatsoever in the design of the Nexon iCNG as compared to the regular Nexon. It gets the same front and rear ends as the facelifted Nexon which was launched a year back with the sequential LED lights and a coupe-style sharply receding roofline. The only visual difference is the addition of the iCNG badge at the tailgate, slightly different alloy wheels with aero inserts, and this new Creative Ocean exterior colour scheme.

Inside the cabin too, the layout is all familiar to the Nexon range with the multi-layered dashboard devoid of too many physical buttons and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen infotainment display taking centre stage. Other highlights include a digital instrument cluster, a two-spoke steering wheel, touch panel for the climate control, and a centre console with ample amount of storage.

Tata Nexon iCNG Review: Features galore

Tata Nexon iCNG is easily the most feature-packed CNG car in India right now packing in all the bells and whistles. This includes segment highlights such as a voice-assist panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system from Harman to name a few. Further, courtesy of Tata’s twin-cylinder CNG technology, the Nexon iCNG offers class-leading boot space of 321 litres which is very usable.

Other feature highlights include a 10.25-inch digital instrument console, automatic climate control, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rain sensing wipers, a JBL audio system, in-built navigation,  a tyre pressure monitoring system, wireless phone charging, a 360-degree camera, and connected car tech.

Tata Nexon iCNG Review: Drive Experience

The Nexon iCNG holds the distinction of being the first CNG car to be powered by a turbocharged petrol mill. Powering the Nexon iCNG is the same 1.2-litre turbo petrol mill as regular Nexon albeit a detuned output. In the CNG mode, this motor pushes out 99 bhp and 170 Nm, which is highest for any CNG car in India. As of now, only a 6-speed manual gearbox is on offer but an AMT could be offered as an option in the future.

The first thing you notice when you step on the gas is the noise the three-cylinder motor makes. It seems louder than the Nexon in petrol guise. Even with decent NVH levels, the three-pot clatter easily filters through the cabin, making it slightly annoying every time you put down on the throttle. Another drawback is that it lacks the urgency but you expect that from a CNG car. 

However, the disparity of performance between the petrol and the CNG modes is very evident and more than usual in this case. The performance is heavily dialled down, and you need to plan the overtakes smartly. That said, switching from CNG mode to petrol mode by simply pushing a button (actually a touch panel) on the run is quite convenient. So when in need of a surge of all the power and torque, you simply switch to petrol mode.

When it comes to ride and handling, there is no apparent difference between the regular Nexon and its CNG derivative. The ride is plush enough to absorb all average-sized potholes and speed breakers in city conditions, and is capable of tackling all sorts of broken tarmac with relative ease. As far as handling goes, the tall centre of gravity and noticeable under steering keeps the car’s aspirations in check.

Tata Nexon iCNG Review: Verdict

The Tata Nexon iCNG sure has a few flaws but it has all the right ingredients to make it a success in the market. The engine is noisy, and the performance is dull. If these two factors don’t make a lot of difference to your purchase decision, then the Nexon iCNG is probably the best all-round package one can ask for if looking out for a CNG vehicle. It’s spacious, packed with features, and doesn’t compromise on the practicality due to lack of boot space or a spare wheel.

Moreover, Tata Motors has managed to price it attractively starting at Rs 8.99 lakh and going up to Rs 14.59 lakh (both ex-showroom), an average difference of around Rs 70,000 to Rs 1 lakh from the corresponding petrol variant. There are no major reasons to complain and Tata Motors has yet another winner in the making.