The Tata Nexon EV is by far the most popular electric SUV in India and the model that helped democratise EVs in that nation. Additionally, Tata Motors has decided to completely revamp the Nexon EV for 2023 in response to more recent and impending competitors. Its not simply another mid-cycle update with a few minor design tweaks and feature improvements this one is thorough and goes below the surface.Its unusual to see a models exterior appearance completely revamped during its life cycle, but Tata Motors has done just that. It may be difficult to discern at first sight that this is only a makeover and not a whole new model. Similar to the previously released ICE Nexon facelift, Tatas Curvv concept served as design inspiration for the EV as well.Specs unleashedUp front, the nose is completely new, featuring a split-headlamp setup with Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) on top and the main headlamp cluster lower down, which is now full-LED, and a sharper bumper with an air curtain on the edges. Along the sides, it now gets new, aero-efficient 16-inch alloys and loses the blue accent on the window line. While this might not be to everyones taste, I think the Nexon EV is better off without those blue highlights all around the car, as it makes it look more grown-up. At the back, theres an LED light bar that spans the width of the revised tailgate and merges into the new tail lamps on either side, a more angular bumper, and a new integrated roof spoiler that conceals the rear washer/wiper underneath, a la Range Rover.(Image source: Twitter/x)Eye-catchingThe Nexon EV facelift also has two distinct paint colors: Intensi-teal, which was carried over from the previous model, and Empowered Oxide, a white paint with a green tint. Overall, the SUV design will undoubtedly catch your eye.When it comes to innovation, the Nexon EV really excels in the cabin. As soon as you get inside, you notice the two enormous screens in front of you, one for the infotainment system and the other for the instrument cluster, as well as the stylish steering. Both screens boast sharp colors, great resolution, and easy usability. But well talk more about their purpose later.(Image source: Twitter/x)Ev is the future!Overall, the quality of the interior is impressive and has improved significantly. It also has a wow effect thanks to a wonderful combination of textures, patterns, and colors. This top-of-the-line Empowered model that we examined has dual-tone dark and light gray leather with discreet blue stitching that distinguishes it as an electric vehicle (EV). Fit and finish may have been enhanced in various places, such as the middle console region surrounding the middle armrest.Regarding the steering, it has a twin-spoke design, which is becoming more and more popular in modern times, and, quite unusually, it has an illuminated emblem in the center.Its comfortable to grasp, has gloss black trim in the center and for the controls on either side and is upholstered in the same dual-tone material as the seats. Although the glossy black parts are attractive to look at, they are far too susceptible to smudges and scratches.The HVAC control panel has also been updated by Tata, with touch-sensitive buttons and toggle switches taking the place of conventional buttons and rotary controls. Similar to the steering wheel controls, these are attractive and simple to use however, maintaining them will be a problem. The older models rotary dial has been replaced with a new, more traditional gear selector for the Nexon EV.Bigger cluster displayLets now discuss those two brand-new, enormous screens I mentioned before. The 10.25-inch instrument cluster display is tailored exclusively for the Nexon EV. It is very customizable, allowing you to select from a variety of layouts and displaying all manner of pertinent data, including navigation. Although some of the information displayed is a little too small to read when moving around, the cluster is still pleasant to look at.At 12.3 inches, the touchscreen is even bigger than the ICE Nexon. Similar to the instrument cluster, this screen is sleek, bright, and simple to use. In terms of functionality and user interface, it marks a significant improvement over the older Nexon device, although, during our brief time with it, we did run into a few bugs. Remember that these were pre-production units, and Tata guaranteed us that these problems would be resolved before the product was put on the market.(Image source: Twitter/x)360-degree cameraThe bright, new 360-degree camera and blind spot monitor are also displayed on the screen. In addition, Tata has launched a brand-new app store called Arcade. EV that allows you to stream OTT platforms and even play a few games when the car is parked with the aid of a mobile hotspot or dongle. While the Nexon EV is charging, this feature might keep you occupied. Even voice commands and over-the-air upgrades are possible with the touchscreen, which also supports wireless smartphone connections.The Nexon EV facelift delivers its power in a more linear manner than the older car, and though it might feel like its slower initially, thats not the case. We tested the 0-100 kph of the Nexon EV facelift, and it managed to do it in 9.3 seconds, which is down on the companys claimed 8.9 seconds, but we did this test on a wet road. In comparison, the older Nexon EV Max did the sprint in 9.40 seconds.Increased efficiencyThe claimed range of the Nexon EV Long Range facelift has increased from 437km to 465km (ARAI) while keeping the same 40.5kWh battery pack as the EV Max. This is due to the powertrains increased efficiency and aerodynamic improvements. It still receives four steps of regenerative braking, but the levels are now adjusted by paddle shifters positioned on the steering wheel, and it is claimed to recover more energy than previously. We havent tested the range in the real world yet, though. Additionally, Tata is offering a lengthy 8 year/1,60,000 km warranty on the battery and motor integration.(Image source: Twitter/x)overviewIn summary, the Nexon EV facelift represents a major improvement over the outgoing model in terms of appearance, interior quality, amenities, and driving performance. Tata has essentially improved on a winning recipe that has previously been tested and proven to work. Its true that there are some flaws, such as the fit/finish in some sections and the rather slow pace of fast charging, but you must keep in mind that this is only a mid-life cycle facelift, and its uncommon to see facelifts this thorough, to the point where it almost feels like a brand-new model.Price bracket(Image source: Twitter/x)Priced between Rs 14.74 lakh and Rs 19.94 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom, India), the Nexon EV facelift is approximately Rs 50,000 more expensive at the low end and nearly Rs 1.5 lakh more expensive at the high end. Even while it may seem like a sizable price, the modifications that have been made make it worthwhile.
