Next-gen Tata Nexon spied testing

The current Nexon has been in the market for nearly 10 years, having been updated twice with comprehensive facelifts – one in 2020 and another in 2023. 10 years is pretty long in automotive lifecycle, but we know Tata Motors is now working on a brand-new generation of the Nexon, which is expected to make it debut sometime in 2027. Internally codenamed the ‘Garud’, the upcoming Nexon has been spied testing on our roads, giving us a hint of what to expect from the next-generation SUV. 

1. Next-gen Nexon is internally codenamed the ‘Garud’
2. Expected to be underpinned by an updated platform 
3. Will debut sometime in 2027 

Next-gen Tata Nexon: what to expect?

The spied pre-production prototype appears heavily camouflaged and is likely wearing a lot of temporary body panels, so it’s too early to comment on the design. However, one key takeaway is that it seems to sport a much more sharply raked rear windscreen than the current model. One can also spot a wiper mounted to the top of the windscreen, which will likely be tucked away under a spoiler on the final production model.

Up front, the next-gen Nexon will continue to sport a split headlamp setup that’s hinted at by the main headlamp unit positioned on the bumper. However, expect a completely revised fascia with new bumper, grille and lighting elements. There also seems to be a radar module on the bumper, meaning it will continue to offer ADAS features. 

In profile, the glass house seems pretty similar to the existing model, but the wheels get a new design and are likely larger 17-inch units. The spy shots also reveal a disc brake setup for the rear wheels; the current Nexon gets drum brakes at the rear. 

In terms of overall dimensions though, given the constraints of the sub-4m segment, the next-gen Nexon can be expected to be similar to the current model. It is expected to be underpinned by a heavily modified version of the current X1 platform, which could perhaps be in line with the ATLAS platform that currently underpins the Curvv coupe-SUV. 

Image Credit: carstatsglo via Instagram.

Interior spy shots of the next-gen Nexon have hinted at twin, free-standing screens, although their size remains unconfirmed. It will likely continue with Tata’s twin-spoke steering wheel, but expect a completely new dashboard design and interior theme. Like with the current Nexon, expect a generous equipment list with the next-gen model as well. 

Next-gen Tata Nexon: powertrain options

The next-generation Nexon is expected to continue with its current petrol and CNG powertrains, but it remains to be seen if the diesel engine continues given its declining share in the compact class. The Nexon’s 1.5-litre mill was the only diesel engine to meet the BS6.2 emissions norms without the use of an expensive SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system, but an upgrade to meet the upcoming BS7 emissions regulations will be more costly. 

An update, in line with the combustion variants of the Nexon, can be expected for the Nexon EV, but it remains to be seen if Tata Motors introduces them simultaneously or separately. Upon launch, it will continue to rival the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and the new Skoda Kylaq in the compact SUV segment.

Exterior Image Credit: supercarsandbikesjammu via Instagram