The Tata Nexon is one of the few compact SUVs in India available with petrol, diesel, CNG and electric powertrains. Buyers can also choose from manual, AMT, dual-clutch automatic and single-speed electric transmissions.
Each version serves a different type of driver. Petrol offers the widest transmission choice, diesel provides strong highway efficiency, CNG lowers city fuel expenses, and the Nexon EV delivers the lowest potential running cost. This guide compares their claimed mileage, tested efficiency, driving range, ownership costs and everyday suitability.
Table of Contents
- Tata Nexon Powertrain and Transmission Options
- Tata Nexon Claimed Mileage and Range
- Claimed vs Real-World Mileage
- Tata Nexon City Mileage Comparison
- Tata Nexon Highway Mileage Comparison
- Petrol vs Diesel vs CNG vs EV Running Costs
- When Does Each Powertrain Make Financial Sense?
- Tata Nexon Mileage Compared with Rivals
- Which Tata Nexon Should You Choose?
- How to Improve Tata Nexon Mileage
- Summary
- FAQs
Tata Nexon Powertrain and Transmission Options
The Tata Nexon petrol uses a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine. It produces approximately 120 PS and 170 Nm. Depending on the Nexon variants, it is offered with five-speed and six-speed manual gearboxes, a six-speed AMT and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
The 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine produces approximately 115 PS and 260 Nm. It is available with a six-speed manual transmission and a six-speed AMT. The higher torque output makes the diesel better suited to highway travel and driving with a full passenger load.
The Nexon iCNG uses a turbocharged 1.2-litre engine producing approximately 100 PS and 170 Nm. It is paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Tata’s twin-cylinder arrangement places two smaller CNG cylinders under the luggage floor, providing 321 litres of usable boot space.
The Nexon EV is available with 30 kWh and 45 kWh battery packs. The 45 kWh version produces 106 kW and 215 Nm. It supports 60 kW DC fast charging and can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 40 minutes under suitable conditions.
| Powertrain | Engine or Battery | Transmission Options | Maximum Output |
| Petrol | 1.2-litre turbo-petrol | 5-speed MT, 6-speed MT, 6-speed AMT, 7-speed DCT | Around 120 PS, 170 Nm |
| Diesel | 1.5-litre turbo-diesel | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AMT | Around 115 PS, 260 Nm |
| CNG | 1.2-litre turbo-CNG | 6-speed manual | Around 100 PS, 170 Nm |
| Electric | 30 kWh or 45 kWh battery | Single-speed automatic | Up to 106 kW, 215 Nm |
Also Read: Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating: NCAP Rating, Safety Features
Tata Nexon Claimed Mileage and Range
The petrol manual has a claimed mileage of 17.44 kmpl. The petrol AMT is rated at 17.18 kmpl, while the seven-speed DCT has a slightly lower figure of 17.01 kmpl.
The diesel manual delivers 23.23 kmpl, while the diesel AMT has the highest claimed fuel economy in the Nexon range at 24.08 kmpl.
Current published sources are inconsistent about the Nexon iCNG figure. Some listings show 24 km/kg, while current variant information and Tata’s launch-related claim carried by CarWale list 17.44 km/kg. This guide uses 17.44 km/kg because it matches the figure attached to the current CNG variants across several updated listings.
The Nexon EV 30 kWh has a certified range of up to 275 km. The 45 kWh version offers up to 489 km under the applicable MIDC testing cycle.
| Powertrain | Transmission | Claimed Mileage or Range |
| Petrol | Manual | 17.44 kmpl |
| Petrol | AMT | 17.18 kmpl |
| Petrol | DCT | 17.01 kmpl |
| Diesel | Manual | 23.23 kmpl |
| Diesel | AMT | 24.08 kmpl |
| CNG | Manual | 17.44 km/kg |
| Nexon EV 30 kWh | Automatic | Up to 275 km |
| Nexon EV 45 kWh | Automatic | Up to 489 km |
Claimed figures are measured in controlled conditions. Actual efficiency depends on traffic, speed, temperature, air-conditioning, road gradient, vehicle load and driving behaviour.
Tata Nexon Claimed vs Real-World Mileage
Independent tests show a considerable difference between the claimed figures and everyday efficiency.
CarWale tested the petrol DCT at 9.10 kmpl in city conditions and 16.60 kmpl on the highway. Its combined tested average was 10.83 kmpl.
The diesel manual returned 14.04 kmpl in the city and 21.18 kmpl on the highway. Its combined tested average was 15.82 kmpl.
The Nexon CNG returned 11.65 km/kg in the city and 17.50 km/kg on the highway. The resulting combined average was approximately 13 km/kg.
The 45 kWh Nexon EV covered 329.7 km in an independent mixed-driving range test. This is substantially lower than the 489 km certified figure but remains adequate for regular city travel and planned intercity journeys.
| Version Tested | City Result | Highway Result | Combined Result |
| Petrol DCT | 9.10 kmpl | 16.60 kmpl | 10.83 kmpl |
| Diesel manual | 14.04 kmpl | 21.18 kmpl | 15.82 kmpl |
| CNG manual | 11.65 km/kg | 17.50 km/kg | 13 km/kg |
| Nexon EV 45 kWh | Mixed city and highway test | Mixed city and highway test | 329.7 km range |
These tests were conducted with different powertrains and transmissions. They provide useful reference points but should not be treated as a perfectly controlled head-to-head comparison.
Also Read: Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Tata Nexon
Tata Nexon City Mileage Comparison
Petrol Nexon in City Driving
The petrol Nexon offers the widest selection of transmissions.
The manual is suitable for buyers who want a lower purchase price and greater control over gear changes. The AMT provides affordable automatic convenience, although shifts can feel noticeable in slow-moving traffic.
The DCT is the smoothest and quickest automatic option. However, it can consume considerably more fuel in congestion. The tested city figure of 9.10 kmpl shows how repeated acceleration, idling and low-speed crawling affect the turbo-petrol engine.
The petrol version works best for buyers with relatively low annual usage who value refinement and performance more than minimum running cost.
Diesel Nexon in City Driving
The diesel engine provides stronger low-speed torque. This allows the car to move with less accelerator input, particularly when carrying several passengers.
Its tested city mileage of 14.04 kmpl is substantially better than the petrol DCT result. However, diesel engines are not ideal for vehicles used only for short, low-speed journeys. Regular longer drives help the engine and emission-control system reach normal operating temperatures.
The diesel Nexon is more suitable for drivers who cover substantial daily distances rather than buyers completing only occasional neighbourhood journeys.
Nexon CNG in City Driving
The CNG version can reduce fuel expenses where CNG is readily available.
Its turbocharged engine produces more torque than many naturally aspirated CNG cars. However, performance is still lower than the petrol version, particularly when the vehicle is fully loaded.
The tested city result of 11.65 km/kg is below the claimed figure. Drivers may obtain different results depending on traffic, gas quality, filling pressure and driving style.
The twin-cylinder layout preserves more luggage space than a conventional single-cylinder system. However, buyers must still consider CNG queues and the availability of stations along their regular routes.
Nexon EV in City Driving
The Nexon EV is particularly well suited to urban use.
Its single-speed drivetrain provides smooth and immediate acceleration. Regenerative braking recovers energy when the vehicle slows down, which can improve efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
Home charging is the biggest practical advantage. An owner who can charge overnight may rarely need a public charger during routine commuting.
The EV becomes less convenient for buyers who do not have a dedicated parking space or reliable charging access.
What Affects Nexon City Mileage?
Several factors can change the efficiency of every Nexon powertrain:
- Traffic congestion: Repeated braking and acceleration increase fuel or electricity consumption.
- Short journeys: Internal-combustion engines use more fuel before reaching their normal operating temperature.
- Driving mode: Sport mode and aggressive throttle inputs reduce mileage.
- Air-conditioning: Continuous cooling increases energy use.
- Vehicle load: Passengers and luggage make the powertrain work harder.
- Tyre pressure: Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance.
- Idling: Petrol, diesel and CNG are consumed without covering any distance.
Tata Nexon Highway Mileage Comparison
Petrol Nexon on Highways
The petrol engine feels responsive during overtaking and performs better on open roads than in congested traffic.
The DCT returned 16.60 kmpl during independent highway testing. Maintaining a steady speed allows the gearbox to remain in a higher ratio and reduces engine revolutions.
Repeated high-speed acceleration will reduce mileage quickly. Buyers who regularly travel with passengers and luggage may also need to use more throttle on inclines.
Diesel Nexon on Highways
The diesel is the most suitable internal-combustion Nexon for frequent highway use.
Its 260 Nm torque output helps the vehicle maintain speed without frequent downshifts. The tested highway figure of 21.18 kmpl also gives it a substantial efficiency advantage over the petrol DCT.
The diesel works well for buyers who regularly travel between cities or cover high annual distances.
Nexon CNG on Highways
The CNG Nexon returned 17.50 km/kg during its highway test. This is a significant improvement over its city result.
Long-distance CNG travel requires more planning. Filling stations may not be conveniently located on every route, and the quantity of gas filled can vary between pumps.
The car can continue running on petrol after the CNG supply is depleted. This reduces the risk of becoming stranded but increases the cost of the remaining journey.
Nexon EV on Highways
The 45 kWh EV can handle planned highway journeys, but its range reduces at sustained high speeds.
Electric vehicles are generally most efficient at moderate speeds. Aerodynamic resistance increases rapidly as speed rises, forcing the motor to consume more energy.
The 329.7 km tested result provides a more practical reference than the 489 km certified figure. Buyers should also preserve a reasonable battery reserve when planning charging stops.
Tata Nexon Running Cost Comparison
The following calculation uses independent tested efficiency rather than certified figures.
The assumptions are:
- Monthly driving: 1,500 km
- Petrol price: ₹100 per litre
- Diesel price: ₹90 per litre
- CNG price: ₹80 per kg
- Home electricity price: ₹8 per kWh
- Petrol DCT tested average: 10.83 kmpl
- Diesel manual tested average: 15.82 kmpl
- CNG manual tested average: 13 km/kg
- Nexon EV 45 kWh tested range: 329.7 km
These energy prices are illustrative. Actual prices vary by city, supplier and charging method.
| Expense | Petrol DCT | Diesel Manual | CNG Manual | Nexon EV 45 kWh |
| Approximate cost per km | ₹9.23 | ₹5.69 | ₹6.15 | ₹1.09 |
| Monthly energy cost | ₹13,850 | ₹8,534 | ₹9,231 | ₹1,638 |
| Annual energy cost | ₹1,66,205 | ₹1,02,402 | ₹1,10,769 | ₹19,654 |
| Five-year energy cost | ₹8,31,025 | ₹5,12,010 | ₹5,53,846 | ₹98,271 |
Under these assumptions, the diesel saves approximately ₹3.19 lakh over five years compared with the petrol DCT.
The EV saves approximately ₹7.33 lakh in energy expenses compared with the petrol version when charged primarily at home.
This table does not include purchase-price differences, insurance, financing, charger installation, maintenance, battery condition or resale value. It also compares different transmissions because directly comparable independent test data is not available for every version.
Also Read: Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Tata Nexon EV
When Does Each Nexon Powertrain Make Financial Sense?
Petrol
Petrol makes the most sense for lower annual usage. Buyers covering fewer than approximately 10,000 km per year may take a long time to recover the higher purchase price of diesel, CNG or electric versions.
It is also the easiest choice for drivers who do not have convenient CNG or charging access.
Diesel
Diesel becomes attractive when monthly driving is high.
It is particularly suitable for frequent highway travel, hill driving and journeys with a full passenger load. The higher torque and better fuel efficiency can justify the price premium over several years.
CNG
CNG works well for regular urban commuters who have reliable filling stations nearby.
Its financial advantage depends on local CNG prices and actual mileage. In the independent test used here, the diesel had a slightly lower cost per kilometre because the CNG test returned only 13 km/kg.
Electric
The EV offers the greatest potential saving when charged at home.
It works best for predictable daily travel, regular commuting and households with dedicated parking. Buyers who depend heavily on public fast charging will face higher energy costs and greater inconvenience.
Tata Nexon Mileage Compared with Rivals
The Nexon’s main strength is the number of powertrain choices it offers. Most compact SUVs provide only two or three fuel options.
| Model | Available Powertrains | Highest Claimed Efficiency |
| Tata Nexon | Petrol, diesel, CNG and electric | 24.08 kmpl diesel or 489 km EV range |
| Maruti Suzuki Brezza | Petrol and CNG | Up to 19.89 kmpl or 25.51 km/kg |
| Kia Sonet | Petrol and diesel | Up to 24.10 kmpl |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | Petrol and diesel | Up to 21.20 kmpl |
| Hyundai Venue | Petrol and diesel | Up to approximately 20.99 kmpl |
The Brezza offers better claimed CNG efficiency than the Nexon. However, it does not offer a diesel or electric powertrain.
The Kia Sonet diesel manual has a claimed figure of up to 24.10 kmpl, placing it close to the Nexon diesel AMT.
The XUV 3XO offers up to 21.20 kmpl from its diesel powertrain. Its petrol engines provide stronger performance options, but the Nexon offers a broader fuel selection.
The Nexon’s key advantage is flexibility. A buyer can choose petrol, diesel, CNG or electric power without moving to an entirely different vehicle category.
Which Tata Nexon Should You Choose?
Choose the Petrol Nexon If:
- Your annual usage is relatively low.
- Most journeys are short.
- You want the widest choice of transmissions.
- Performance and refinement matter more than maximum mileage.
- You do not have access to CNG or home charging.
Choose the Diesel Nexon If:
- You regularly drive long distances.
- Highway mileage is a priority.
- You often carry passengers and luggage.
- Strong low-speed torque is important.
- Your monthly driving is high enough to justify the price premium.
Choose the Nexon CNG If:
- CNG stations are convenient in your area.
- Most journeys involve regular city commuting.
- You want lower fuel expenses without purchasing an EV.
- A manual transmission suits your requirements.
- You are comfortable planning refuelling stops.
Choose the Nexon EV If:
- You have reliable home or workplace charging.
- Your daily travel is predictable.
- Minimum running cost is the priority.
- You want smooth and quiet city performance.
- You are comfortable planning longer journeys around charging stops.
How to Improve Tata Nexon Mileage
Accelerate smoothly and avoid frequent full-throttle inputs. Turbocharged engines consume substantially more fuel under hard acceleration.
Maintain a consistent speed on highways. Repeated acceleration and braking reduce efficiency in every version.
Use the correct driving mode. Eco mode can reduce throttle response and support more economical driving.
Check tyre pressure regularly. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy or EV range.
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. Remove heavy items when they are no longer needed.
Keep petrol, diesel and CNG versions serviced according to Tata’s recommended schedule.
EV owners should use regenerative braking effectively and avoid maintaining unnecessarily high highway speeds.
Charge the EV at home whenever possible. Public fast charging is usually more expensive and should be reserved primarily for longer journeys.
Summary
The petrol Tata Nexon offers the widest transmission choice but has the highest fuel cost in real-world city driving.
The diesel is the most efficient internal-combustion option for frequent highway users. Independent testing recorded 14.04 kmpl in the city and 21.18 kmpl on the highway.
The Nexon CNG can reduce fuel expenses, although its tested 13 km/kg combined average was lower than its claimed figure.
The Nexon EV offers the lowest potential running cost. The 45 kWh version has a certified range of 489 km and a tested real-world range of approximately 330 km.
The best Nexon depends on annual usage, driving environment, transmission preference and access to fuel or charging infrastructure.
FAQs About Tata Nexon Mileage
Q. What is the mileage of the Tata Nexon petrol?
The petrol manual has a claimed mileage of 17.44 kmpl. The AMT delivers 17.18 kmpl, while the DCT is rated at 17.01 kmpl.
Q. What is the real-world mileage of the Tata Nexon diesel?
The diesel manual returned 14.04 kmpl in the city and 21.18 kmpl on the highway during independent testing.
Q. What is the mileage of the Tata Nexon CNG?
The current commonly listed claimed figure is 17.44 km/kg. Independent testing recorded 11.65 km/kg in the city and 17.50 km/kg on the highway.
Q. What is the real-world range of the Nexon EV?
The 45 kWh Nexon EV covered approximately 329.7 km in an independent mixed-driving range test. Actual range varies with speed, temperature, traffic and air-conditioning use.
Q. Which Tata Nexon has the lowest running cost?
The Nexon EV generally has the lowest cost per kilometre when charged at home. Diesel and CNG are more suitable alternatives for buyers who cannot install a charger.
