Tata Punch EV top vs Nexon EV mid variants: Which offers more value?

The Tata Punch EV is a subcompact SUV, while the Nexon EV is positioned a rung higher as a compact SUV. Apart from the footprint, the two stablemates also differ in range, equipment levels, performance and price. But what happens when you compare the fully loaded Punch EV Empowered+ S with the mid-spec Nexon EV Creative? Does it make more sense to go for the smaller car with all the bells and whistles or the bigger Nexon EV, even if it’s a lower trim? Let’s find out.

Tata Punch EV Empowered+ S vs Nexon EV Creative: Specs

*Tata Motors’s own range test cycle, which is said to be a near-real-world driving range that 75 percent of owners can expect to achieve.

With that clarified, the Nexon EV’s larger battery gives it a slight advantage in range. It can travel 25km more on a single charge, with a claimed 489km MIDC figure, and the same pattern continues in the brand’s C75 real-world tests. Its motor also produces 15hp and 61Nm more than the Punch EV. However, when it comes to 0-100kph acceleration, the gap between the two is negligible, likely due to the Nexon’s higher overall weight. 

The Punch EV’s smaller battery charges faster via both AC and DC chargers. It’s also noteworthy that Tata offers warranty coverage on the Punch EV’s battery, motor and vehicle identical to that of the Nexon, bringing higher-segment reassurance into a smaller, more affordable space and supporting broader EV adoption. For detailed information on the warranties, referring to Tata’s official terms and conditions is recommended.

Tata Punch EV Empowered+ S vs Nexon EV Creative: Exterior

Apart from missing bits like fog lamps and a rear wiper and washer, the mid-spec Nexon EV holds its ground in the exterior features department. It even gets alloy wheels, which is notable because the 30kWh Creative+ version does not offer them.

Tata Punch EV Empowered+ S vs Nexon EV Creative: Interior

Ad

It comes as no surprise that the difference in features is huge here, with the Punch EV getting larger screens, wireless smartphone connectivity and charging, ventilated front seats and a sunroof. What really stands out, though, is what the Nexon misses. Basic things like USB charging ports and even a rear centre armrest would have made everyday use far more convenient. On the other hand, the electric Punch still skips rear AC vents even after getting a mid-lifecycle update in February 2026, which is startling given how feature-loaded it is otherwise.

Tata Punch EV Empowered+ S vs Nexon EV Creative: Safety

Tata has garnered a strong reputation in recent years for prioritising safety in its cars, and that clearly reflects here. Six airbags are standard on the Nexon, and while it misses out on a 360-degree camera, having a rear camera is always helpful. Its 5-star Bharat NCAP crash test safety rating is also encouraging. On the other hand, the facelifted Punch EV is yet to be officially tested at the time of writing, but the pre-facelift version had already secured a full 5-star rating, so expectations remain high. One notable change, however, is in its braking setup. The earlier top-spec Punch offered disc brakes on all four wheels, but the updated model switches to rear drum brakes, which feels like a step back.

Tata Punch EV Empowered+ S vs Nexon EV Creative: Prices and verdict

^As of February 26, 2026.

Given everything we have analysed, the Tata Punch EV Empowered+ S emerges as the more sensible pick between the two, undercutting the Nexon EV Creative by around Rs 1.4 lakh. While the Punch EV does have a smaller battery and lower range, it compensates with faster charging times. Moreover, its smaller footprint makes it far easier to drive in the city, something we have always loved, and its 195mm ground clearance is 5mm higher than before, which should make it better suited to our roads.