What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Tata Nexon 2023 to compare its variants for budget-conscious buyers.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
- Tata Nexon 2023 – a comprehensive analysis of its variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
So, can the Tata Nexon 2023 be considered the best budget compact SUV? What affordable car options does it have in its lineup? Read on.
What a Budget-conscious Buyer Looks for in a Car
A budget-conscious buyer should look for these in a car:
- Affordability – a car should be affordable, and have low maintenance costs
- Fuel efficiency – The car shouldn’t guzzle fuel
- Safety features – Essential safety features are a must in a car
- Brand perception – Is the brand of the car known for its wide service network, after sales service, etc.
- Resale value – The car should fetch good resale rates
Budget-conscious buyers prioritize affordability and low cost of ownership when choosing a car. They look for competitive pricing, high fuel efficiency to minimize running costs, and affordable maintenance. Essential features like power steering, AC and safety kit are expected. Bells and whistles can be compromised to keep prices low.
Why Tata Nexon 2023 is popular
The Tata Nexon 2023 appeals to budget-conscious buyers thanks to its competitive pricing, starting under Rs. 8 lakh. It offers the road presence and high seating of an SUV while still being affordable.
With the 1.2 turbo-petrol and 1.5 diesel engine options, the Nexon delivers peppy performance and high fuel efficiency of 16-22 kmpl, making it economical to run. Tata’s wide service network and improving reliability also keep maintenance costs in check. The Nexon further adds a 5-star GNCAP crash test rating, making it one of the safest cars in its segment.
Tata Nexon 2023 variants shortlist in Rs 8-12 lakh range
Variant | Price (INR) as on 12 March 2024 |
Smart | ₹8,10,000 |
Smart Plus | ₹9,10,000 |
Pure S | ₹10,20,000 |
Creative | ₹11,00,000 |
Tata Nexon Smart
The Tata Nexon Smart variant is the base model priced affordably at Rs. 8.1 lakh. It packs essential features like a 1.2L turbo-petrol engine, power steering, front power windows, 16-inch wheels and dual front airbags. This keeps prices low for buyers on a very tight budget. If you’re a gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Nexon 2023 with Nissan Magnite and Mahindra XUV300.
Tata Nexon Smart Plus
The Smart Plus variant adds some feel-good features like a touchscreen, rear power windows and steering mounted controls for a small premium. So it caters to budget buyers who want a few more creature comforts. If you’re buying your first car, you can check out our comparison of the Nexon 2023 with Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Renault Kiger.
Tata Nexon Pure S
The Pure S variant further adds rear AC vents, follow-me-home headlamps and a 6-speed gearbox for easier highway driving. The 6 airbags and electronic stability control also make it safer. Buyers stretching their budget will find a lot of value here. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the Nexon 2023 with Kia Sonet 2024.
Tata Nexon Creative
The Creative variant crosses the 11 lakh mark but adds premium kit like alloy wheels, auto climate control, push-button start, rear camera and more. While pricey, it still appeals to budget-conscious buyers who want a fully-loaded car.
Our Pick for the Best Tata Nexon 2023 variant for Budget-conscious buyers
The Tata Nexon Pure S is the best variant for budget-conscious buyers. Priced at Rs. 10.2 lakh, it strikes a balance between affordability and essential features. The 6-speed manual with 118 PS/170 Nm keeps it peppy to drive.
Inside the cabin, it gets a 7-inch touchscreen, 4 speakers, rear AC vents and power windows. On the safety front, dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat mounts and cornering stability control are offered as standard.
It further adds feel-good features like follow-me-home headlamps, auto ORVMs and steering mounted controls without getting too expensive. The Pure S thus makes for a well-rounded package for budget buyers.
The Top 3 choices
- Tata Nexon Pure S
- Tata Nexon Smart Plus
- Tata Nexon Creative
Attributes | Pure S | Smart Plus | Creative |
Touchscreen | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Rear AC Vents | Yes | No | Yes |
6 Airbags | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Alloy Wheels | No | No | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Tata Nexon Pure S is our top recommendation for budget-conscious buyers seeking a safe, well-equipped and efficient compact SUV.
- The Smart Plus variant is a worthy choice for buyers on a tighter budget who can live without a few features.
- For those willing to stretch their budget, the Creative variant offers a premium experience.
The Nexon Pure S, Smart Plus and Creative variants offer increasing levels of features and comfort at different price points to suit the needs of budget-conscious buyers. The high fuel efficiency, affordable pricing and low maintenance costs further make the Nexon range an attractive choice in the compact SUV segment.
If you’re interested in reading more such guides to popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.