What's The Big News?
Alright, so the Tata Nexon. You see 'em everywhere, don't you? It's been a game-changer for Tata, a proper bestseller that's put them right back in the compact SUV game. And because so many have been sold over the years, there's now a massive pool of used Nexons out there, just waiting for a second owner. This means brilliant value for you, if you know what to look for.
But here's the kicker: buying a pre-owned car, especially one that's seen a few years and kilometres on our infamous Indian roads, isn't like buying a fresh one off the showroom floor. You've got to be smart, you've got to inspect every nook and cranny, and you definitely need to know the common pitfalls. Don't worry, I'm here to walk you through it.
Engines, Gearboxes & Drivability: The Heart of the Matter
First things first, let's talk powertrains. The Nexon came with both petrol and diesel engines from day one. You've got the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel. Both are pretty competent for daily driving, especially the diesel which offers a nice punch and good fuel economy. The petrol's got enough pep for city and occasional highway runs, but don't expect it to set any speed records. You'll find both with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission).
When you're test driving a used Nexon, pay close attention to the transmission. Manuals are generally bulletproof, but check for a worn-out clutch – it'll feel heavy or slip. With the AMT, it's a different ball game. Tata's AMT, while convenient, isn't the smoothest out there. Expect some head-nodding during shifts, especially at lower speeds. What you don't want is excessive jerking, delayed shifts, or grinding noises. That could mean clutch actuator issues, which aren't cheap to fix. Also, listen for any unusual engine noises – rattles, squeaks, or excessive smoke from the exhaust, especially in the diesel. Diesel engines, if mostly city-driven, can sometimes face DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) clogging issues, so ask the owner about their driving habits.
Interior, Electricals & Features: Your Daily Space
Step inside, and you'll immediately notice the Nexon's unique design. Tata's always tried to make their cabins feel a bit more premium than the competition, and for the price, it's often a good effort. But in a used car, time takes its toll. Check all the plastics for excessive scratches or rattles. Are the seats still firm, or have they sagged? Look at the condition of the steering wheel and gear knob – excessive wear suggests high mileage or rough usage. Don't forget to test all the power windows, ORVMs, and central locking. These are small things that can add up.
The infotainment system is another big one. Earlier Nexons came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, later ones got a larger 7-inch unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (yes, really!). Make sure it powers up quickly, the touch response is good, and all features like Bluetooth, USB, and navigation (if present) work without a hitch. Tata cars have had a reputation for minor electrical gremlins in the past, so check every single button, knob, and light. Does the AC blow cold? Is the instrument cluster showing any warning lights? Get the car scanned for error codes if you can – it's always a good idea.
Suspension, Steering & Bodywork: The Unsung Heroes
Indian roads are brutal, and the suspension takes a beating. While the Nexon is known for its plush ride, especially over broken patches, its suspension components can wear out over time. Take it for a good test drive over varying road surfaces. Listen for any thuds, squeaks, or excessive bouncing. A clunky suspension will need new bushes, link rods, or even shock absorbers, which can be a significant expense. Also, check the steering – it should feel direct and not have too much play. Does it pull to one side? That could mean an alignment issue or something more serious with the steering rack.
Now for the bodywork. The Nexon is a 5-star GNCAP rated car, a big plus for safety. But check for accident damage very carefully. Look for inconsistent panel gaps, mismatched paint shades, overspray, or ripples in the body panels. Open and close all doors, the bonnet, and the boot lid – they should operate smoothly. Check the underbody for rust, especially around the sills and exhaust. Rust is a no-go, plain and simple. Also, inspect the tyres; uneven wear could point to suspension or alignment issues, and you'll factor in the cost of new tyres.
Specs At A Glance
Feature | Details (Pre-facelift & First Facelift) |
|---|---|
Engine Options | 1.2L Revotron Turbo-Petrol, 1.5L Revotorq Turbo-Diesel |
Transmission | 6-speed Manual, 6-speed AMT |
Safety Rating | 5-Star GNCAP (Adult Occupancy) |
Infotainment | 6.5-inch / 7-inch Touchscreen (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto on later models) |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Fuel Type | Petrol, Diesel |
How Does It Stack Up Against The Competition?
In the used compact SUV space, the Nexon faces stiff competition from popular choices like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. Each has its pros and cons. The Brezza, for instance, offers Maruti's legendary reliability and low maintenance costs, but often feels a bit less premium inside and doesn't match the Nexon's ride comfort. A used Venue or Sonet will likely give you a more refined engine (especially the turbo-petrols) and more features, but they might not absorb our broken roads quite as well as the Nexon does.
Where the Nexon truly shines, even as a used car, is its safety rating. That 5-star GNCAP sticker isn't just for show; it gives you genuine peace of mind, something its rivals struggled to match initially. It also offers a commanding driving position and that robust build quality that Tata is known for. However, remember that service costs for Tata, while improving, might not always be as universally accessible or cheap as a Maruti, particularly in smaller towns. You'll need to weigh that against the Nexon's superior ride and safety.
The Good And The Not-So-Good
What We Like
- Robust Build & 5-Star Safety: This is arguably its biggest selling point, offering immense peace of mind.
- Excellent Ride Quality: Handles broken roads like a champ, making commutes comfortable.
- Spacious Cabin: Good legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable family car.
- Stylish Design: Stands out from the crowd, especially the earlier dual-tone options.
- Value for Money: Often priced competitively in the used market compared to rivals with similar features.
What Could Be Better
- AMT Refinement: The AMT can be jerky, and it's not for everyone.
- Electrical Niggles: Some owners report minor issues with the infotainment or other electrical components in older models.
- Fit and Finish: While overall build is good, some interior plastics and panel gaps might not be as consistent as segment leaders.
- Service Experience: While improving, Tata's after-sales service can still be hit or miss in certain regions.
Price & When You Can Buy It
So, what about the money? The beauty of a used Nexon is its wide availability. You'll find models ranging from the original launch year (2017) right up to relatively new, first-facelifted versions. Pricing, as always with used cars, depends heavily on the year of manufacture, the variant, the engine type (diesel usually commands a bit more), mileage, and most importantly, the car's overall condition and service history. Don't expect me to give you exact numbers here, as they fluctuate wildly depending on your city and the specific car.
Generally, you can expect prices for a well-maintained, pre-facelift Nexon to start somewhere in the ₹4.5 lakh range and go up to ₹8-9 lakh for newer, well-equipped facelifted models. Always compare prices across multiple platforms – online portals, local dealers, and direct owner sales. Don't rush into a purchase; take your time, inspect thoroughly, and negotiate hard. It's your hard-earned money, after all.
Our Verdict
Look, the Tata Nexon is a strong contender in the compact SUV segment, new or used. Its 5-star safety rating, comfortable ride, and commanding presence make it a compelling package for Indian families. It's a car built to tackle our roads, and that's a huge plus for a used vehicle.
However, buying a used Nexon isn't just about grabbing a good deal; it's about making an informed decision. Check for those common AMT quirks, scrutinise the electricals, and ensure the suspension hasn't taken too much of a beating. Honestly, if you find a well-maintained Nexon with a full service history, especially a diesel manual, you're getting a fantastic value-for-money proposition that'll serve you well for years to come. Just do your homework, bring a trusted mechanic, and you'll be driving home a solid set of wheels.