Following in the footsteps of the Punch and the Altroz, Tata Motors has introduced the iCNG version of the Nexon as well. Prices start at Rs 8.99 lakh and go up to Rs 14.59 lakh for the top-end Fearless + PS variant. It uses a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine paired with either an AMT or a 6-speed manual transmission.
There are no specific changes in the iCNG model as opposed to a regular Nexon. It continues with the same design language featuring a black grille flanked with vertical headlamps up front. At the rear, you do get an iCNG badge like the Punch and the Altroz, save for which the iCNG model continues with a similar full-width taillight.
The interior too remains similar with dual 10.25-inch screens and a Harman Kardon audio system. A new feature introduced here is the voice-assisted panoramic sunroof – a step up from the smaller sunroof the Nexon has always featured. This will also be available on the Nexon EV 45. Like the regular Nexon, customers will get features like leatherette ventilated seats in the top-end variants. The CNG set-up in the boot comprise of two smaller tanks that sit below the boot floor, allowing boot space to remain a respectable 321 litres. It also gets 6 airbags, ESP, auto headlamps and rain-sensing wipers along with welcome/goodbye animations.
The Nexon iCNG uses a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine with 98.6bhp and 170Nm of torque. The combined capacity for the twin-tank setup is 60 litres and Tata Motors claims a mileage of 24km/kg of CNG. The new Nexon iCNG features a single ECU and allows a seamless switch between CNG and petrol driving. You can also start the car directly in CNG mode as opposed to starting in petrol mode and switching to CNG later. In terms of safety, you get leak detection, a Fire Protection Device, and Thermal Incident Protection.
Tata Motors is offering the iCNG model in eight variants starting from Rs 8.99 lakh and going up to Rs 14.59 lakh for the top-end Fearless + PS variant. These prices are for the variants with manual transmission and prices for the variants with AMT gearbox will be revealed later. The Maruti Suzuki Brezza is the only other compact SUV that offers a factory-fitted CNG kit and starts at Rs 9.29 lakh. Hyundai is rumoured to be bringing the Venue with a CNG powertrain soon as well.