Tata Nexon had an unrestricted run as the second best selling model of its segment for almost a couple of years, turning around the automaker’s fortunes in the domestic market in the process. However, things have started becoming tight after the arrival of Mahindra XUV300 and Hyundai Venue in quick succession.
The competition in the sub-4m crossover market is so fierce that the Nexon would need more than just a minor mid-life refresh to keep pace. Close up spy shots of camouflaged Tata Nexon facelift prototype have emerged online, indicating that the crossover will receive a comprehensive design overhaul.
The inexpressive and understated front fascia of the current car would soon be a thing of past. Highlights of the Nexon facelift include brand new double-barrel headlamps, redesigned grille (quintessential Tata design trait – the humanity line – is expected to be retained), and of course, a fresh bumper and fog lights. We think the restyling gives the Nexon a more youthful appeal and improved road presence.
We will have to wait for future spy shots to ascertain changes on the sides and rear but we expect the sheet metal design to remain more or less untouched. Redesigned taillights, bumper, and subtle changes to the tailgate are expected.
The Tata Nexon’s interior is already modern enough so the improvements would be largely related to color themes and materials. The touchscreen infotainment system is likely to be upgraded to offer additional connectivity features. The Hyundai Venue pushed the segment benchmark much higher on this respect.
The 2020 Tata Nexon facelift will get the BS-VI versions of the existing 1.2-liter Revotron turbocharged petrol engine and the 1.5-liter Revotorq diesel engines. Both motors currently produce 110 PS but the output figures could vary slightly in the updated crossover.
Apart from the BS6 petrol and diesel engine options, Tata Motors has also confirmed the launch of an electric variant. Tata Nexon electric will most likely get a similar motor as seen on the Tigor electric, which is already on sale in India. The Tata Nexon facelift is expected to make its premiere at the Auto Expo 2020 in February before going of sale a few months later. The pricing is not expected to vary much.
The Maruti Vitara Brezza had been dominating the sub-4m crossover segment for years but the Hyundai Venue snatched the segment leadership last month. The comprehensively updated Nexon is expected to further change the sales dynamics of the hotly contested segment.
