Tata Nexon spied on test ahead of 2016 Auto Expo debut

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Tata's upcoming new Nexon compact SUV was recently spotted on test in Maharashtra. The vehicle will be Tata's first ever sub-four metre compact SUV to compete with the Ford EcoSport in the Indian market.

Tata Motors had first displayed the Nexon as a concept vehicle at the 2014 Auto Expo. The near-to-production test mule borrows traits from this concept. Though the recent pictures show the makeshift headlamps, the car is expected to get headlamps integrated with DRLs and tail lamps with LED guides. The Nexon is based on the X1 platform that also underpins the Zest sedan and  the Bolt hatchback.

The interior shots confirm that the Nexon’s cabin layout is similar to the one in the Zest and Bolt. The car gets the new three-spoke multi-function steering wheel from these siblings and the Harman audio system is also expected to be carried over.

The engine options might include the 1.3-litre Fiat-sourced MultiJet diesel mill and the 1.2-litre three-cylinder Revotron petrol mill that will also power the Zica. The transmission options are expected to be the five-speed manual gearbox and also the automated manual transmission (AMT).

We can expect the Nexon with its futuristic design and new features to up the competition in the growing compact SUV segment in India. It might undercut the rivals, if Tata Motors launches the car in the Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh price range.

Image Courtesy: IAB