Overview information
The Indian automotive market has seen a massive surge in demand for factory-fitted CNG vehicles, driven by rising fuel costs and the economical running expenses of CNG. However, CNG buyers historically had to compromise on two major fronts: sluggish engine performance due to lack of turbocharging and virtually zero boot space due to large gas cylinders. Tata Motors has systematically shattered these limitations. Following the success of its twin-cylinder technology, Tata has launched the Nexon iCNG, proudly crowned as India’s first-ever turbocharged CNG vehicle.
Engine Performance: The Turbocharged Revolution
Until now, every single factory-fitted CNG car sold in India featured a naturally aspirated engine, which often felt underpowered, especially when driving on highways or with a full load. The Tata Nexon iCNG changes the game by utilizing the company’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged Revotron engine. This marks a massive milestone for the Indian automotive industry.
When running on CNG mode, this motor produces a strong 99 bhp of power and 170 Nm of torque, which is significantly higher than any other CNG vehicle in its sub-four-meter compact SUV segment. The torque delivery is smooth and progressive, virtually eliminating the flat spots or sluggish acceleration typically associated with CNG cars. Power is managed via a slick 6-speed manual transmission, and rumors suggest a factory-fitted AMT version is also on the horizon.
The Genius of Twin-Cylinder Technology
The second major highlight is Tata’s patented twin-cylinder technology. Instead of placing a single, massive 60-litre gas cylinder that completely takes over the luggage area, Tata has split the storage into two smaller 30-litre cylinders. These are placed flat beneath the boot floor where the spare wheel traditionally sits.
This layout frees up a highly usable 321 liters of boot space, allowing families to easily pack bags for weekend trips. The spare wheel has been repositioned underneath the vehicle body, ensuring safety and ease of access. Furthermore, the Nexon iCNG features a direct-start-in-CNG mode, allowing drivers to turn on and drive the car directly in CNG mode without needing to switch from petrol first.
No Compromise on Features
Traditionally, manufacturers offered CNG kits only in entry-level or mid-spec variants, depriving buyers of premium features. Tata has broken this mold by offering the Nexon iCNG across multiple trim levels, including the top-of-the-line ‘Creative’ and ‘Fearless’ variants. This means CNG buyers can now enjoy premium luxuries like a panoramic sunroof—a massive draw for Indian buyers—along with a dual 10.25-inch screen setup, ventilated leatherette front seats, wireless charging, and an air purifier.
Safety remains top-tier. The Nexon iCNG features structural reinforcement around the twin cylinders, a leak detection system, and a micro-switch that automatically shuts off the engine whenever the fuel lid is opened. The SUV is expected to maintain its stellar 5-star crash safety rating in Bharat NCAP testing.
| Parameter | Tata Nexon iCNG | Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG (Rival) |
| Engine Type | 1.2L Turbocharged 3-Cylinder | 1.5L Naturally Aspirated 4-Cylinder |
| Max Power (CNG Mode) | 99 bhp @ 5000 rpm | 86.6 bhp @ 5500 rpm |
| Max Torque (CNG Mode) | 170 Nm @ 2000 – 3000 rpm | 121.5 Nm @ 4200 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual | 5-speed Manual |
| Boot Space | 321 Litres (Twin-Cylinder Tech) | Compromised / Minimal |
| Price Range | Rs. 8.99 Lakh – Rs. 14.59 Lakh (Ex-showroom) | Rs. 9.29 Lakh – Rs. 12.10 Lakh (Ex-showroom) |
Quick Pros & Cons
- Pros: India’s first turbocharged CNG engine, offering punchy highway performance. Patented twin-cylinder design leaves a highly practical 321-liter boot space.
- Cons: The 3-cylinder engine exhibits some minor vibration at idle when compared to smoother 4-cylinder rivals. The top-tier variants are priced on the higher side.
Key Rivals in India
The Tata Nexon iCNG competes directly with the Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG. While the Brezza offers a highly reliable 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine with good fuel efficiency, it suffers from a lack of low-end torque, comes with heavily compromised boot space, and lacks the premium features like a turbocharger or a panoramic sunroof found in the Nexon.
The CarTawk Verdict
The Tata Nexon iCNG is a revolutionary product that finally cures all traditional CNG weaknesses by offering strong turbo-petrol performance and a highly practical boot. It is the absolute gold standard for premium, eco-friendly commuting in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the boot space capacity of the Tata Nexon iCNG?
A: Thanks to Tata’s innovative twin-cylinder technology, the Nexon iCNG offers a highly practical and flat 321 liters of boot space.
Q: Can the Nexon iCNG be started directly in CNG mode?
A: Yes, the Nexon iCNG comes with a direct-start-in-CNG feature, allowing you to start the vehicle directly using CNG without switching from petrol first.
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Tata Nexon iCNG is India’s first turbocharged CNG SUV. Explore pricing, specifications, twin-cylinder boot space, panoramic sunroof, and mileage details.
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