The Nexon iCNG is the only model in its class to get a dual-cylinder CNG system.
Published on Sep 25, 2024 08:00:00 AM
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Having showcased the Tata Nexon iCNG for the first time in February this year, the Indian brand has finally announced prices: the CNG-powered Nexon is priced between Rs 8.99 lakh and Rs 14.59 lakh. In the compact SUV space, there are three other models that get a factory-fitted CNG kit: Maruti’s Brezza and Fronx, and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor. We explore how the Nexon iCNG fares against its rivals.
| Tata Nexon iCNG vs rivals: dimensions | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nexon | Fronx | Brezza | Taisor | |
| Length | 3995mm | 3995mm | 3995mm | 3995mm |
| Width | 1804mm | 1765mm | 1790mm | 1765mm |
| Height | 1620mm | 1550mm | 1685mm | 1550mm |
| Wheelbase | 2498mm | 2520mm | 2500mm | 2520mm |
| Tyres | 215/60 R16 | 195/60 R16 | 215/60 R16 | 195/60 R16 |
| Boot space | 321 litres | - | - | - |
| CNG tank | 60 litres | 55 litres | 55 litres | 55 litres |
Compared to its CNG-powered competition, the Nexon iCNG is the widest and features the largest CNG tank. However, the Tata has the shortest wheelbase among its rivals. Interestingly, while the Fronx and Taisor – essentially badge-engineered versions of each other – have the longest wheelbase lengths, they are smaller overall than the other two compact SUVs here. All models come with 16-inch wheels, though the Nexon and Brezza are equipped with thicker rubber.
The Nexon is the only model with a dual-cylinder CNG kit, which is said to help improve boot space compared to the single-cylinder kits seen in the Fronx, Brezza, and Taisor. Tata’s CNG compact SUV has a luggage capacity of 321 litres. However, boot space figures for the CNG-powered Marutis and Toyota have not yet been revealed by the brands. For reference, the petrol versions of the Brezza and Taisor (and the Fronx) are rated at 328 litres and 308 litres, respectively.
| Tata Nexon iCNG vs rivals: powertrain | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nexon | Fronx | Brezza | Taisor | |
| Engine type | 3-cyl, turbocharged | 4-cyl, naturally aspirated | 4-cyl, naturally aspirated | 4-cyl, naturally aspirated |
| Engine capacity | 1199cc | 1197cc | 1462cc | 1197cc |
| Power | 100hp | 77.5hp | 87.8hp | 77.5hp |
| Torque | 170Nm | 98.5Nm | 121.5Nm | 98.5Nm |
| Gearbox | 6MT | 5MT | 5MT | 5MT |
| Fuel efficiency | 24km/kg | 28.51km/kg | 25.51km/kg | 28.51km/kg |
As we’ve said before, the Nexon iCNG is the first turbocharged CNG model in India, which accounts for the fact that it has the highest output figures here. Naturally, the Brezza’s larger displacement engine is more powerful than the smaller 1.2-litre units in the Fronx and Taisor, but is less frugal. However, the Nexon iCNG has the lowest efficiency figure among its rivals. All models here get a manual gearbox only, though the Nexon is equipped with a 6-speed unit, compared to the 5-speed ones seen on the Marutis and Toyota.
| Tata Nexon iCNG vs rivals: price (ex-showroom, India) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nexon | Fronx | Brezza | Taisor | |
| Price range (Rs, lakh) | 8.99-14.59 | 8.47-9.33 | 9.29-10.65 | 8.72 |
The Fronx is the most affordable CNG compact SUV here, and Maruti offers it in the entry-level Sigma and lower-spec Delta variants only. Next comes the Nexon iCNG, which is available in eight variants, with prices for the range-topping, well-equipped Fearless + PS variant reaching Rs 14.59 lakh. Meanwhile, the Taisor CNG is only available in a single entry-level E variant, while the CNG-equipped Brezza is available in base LXi and mid-spec VXi form.
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