Tata Nexon: In the fiercely competitive compact SUV market, Tata Motors has significantly upped the ante with the 2025 Nexon, particularly with the introduction of a panoramic sunroof option that has transformed the vehicle’s interior experience.
This addition represents more than just a feature upgrade; it signifies Tata’s commitment to bringing premium, luxury-oriented amenities to more accessible price points.
The panoramic sunroof, once the exclusive domain of high-end luxury vehicles, now graces select variants of the Nexon, creating a more sophisticated and upmarket cabin atmosphere that challenges segment conventions.
Tata Nexon The Panoramic Sunroof Experience
The Nexon’s panoramic sunroof represents a significant engineering achievement for Tata Motors in the compact SUV segment. Unlike the conventional single-pane sunroofs that were previously offered, the new dual-pane panoramic sunroof extends well into the rear section of the cabin, creating a dramatically more open and airy atmosphere.
The dimensions of the glass panel are particularly impressive given the Nexon’s sub-four-meter footprint. The sunroof spans nearly the entire roof length, with a glass area that’s approximately 60% larger than standard sunroofs typically found in this segment.
This extended coverage ensures that even rear passengers can enjoy the open-sky experience, addressing a common limitation of conventional sunroofs that primarily benefit front occupants.
Perhaps the most sophisticated aspect of the sunroof implementation is its voice-activated operation. Drivers can simply say “Hey Tata, open sunroof” to activate the mechanism, allowing for distraction-free operation.
This feature aligns with the increasing integration of voice commands across the vehicle’s functions, creating a more cohesive technological ecosystem.
The sunroof also includes thoughtful practical features such as anti-pinch protection to prevent injuries, a wind deflector to minimize noise and turbulence when open, and a power sunshade that can be deployed independently of the glass panel, allowing light management without exposure to direct sunlight.
Variant Availability and Premium Positioning
Tata has strategically positioned the panoramic sunroof as a premium feature, available primarily in higher-end trims. Currently, the feature is offered in the Fearless+ PS trim for petrol and diesel variants, while the Nexon CNG gets it in the Creative+ PS and Fearless+ PS trims.
This tiered approach serves dual purposes: it creates a clear distinction between entry-level and premium variants, and it allows Tata to maintain competitive base pricing while offering luxury features to those willing to step up to higher trim levels.
The panoramic sunroof-equipped variants are priced at approximately Rs 13.60 lakh for petrol, Rs 15 lakh for diesel, and Rs 12.80 lakh for CNG models (ex-showroom).
What makes the Nexon’s implementation particularly noteworthy is that it has become one of only two vehicles in the sub-compact SUV segment to offer a true panoramic sunroof, the other being the Mahindra XUV 3XO.
This exclusivity reinforces the premium positioning of these variants and provides Tata with a compelling selling point against competitors like the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Maruti Brezza, which either offer smaller conventional sunroofs or none at all.
Interior Luxury Beyond the Sunroof
While the panoramic sunroof stands as the crown jewel of the Nexon’s luxury credentials, it’s merely one component of a comprehensive interior upgrade that has elevated the vehicle’s premium quotient. The cabin has undergone a substantial redesign that brings it more in line with luxury expectations.
The dashboard architecture features a layered, horizontal design that creates a greater sense of width and space. Premium materials are more abundant, with soft-touch surfaces on the upper dashboard and door panels, leatherette upholstery options, and tasteful chrome and piano black accents that add visual interest without appearing excessive.
Technology integration serves as another luxury hallmark, with dual 10.25-inch displays taking center stage. The digital instrument cluster is highly customizable, offering different themes and information layouts to suit driver preferences.
The touchscreen infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and features voice control capabilities that extend to various vehicle functions beyond the sunroof operation.
The JBL-branded premium audio system represents another luxury touch, with eight speakers strategically positioned throughout the cabin for optimized sound staging.
Audio quality significantly exceeds typical expectations for this segment, with richer bass response and clearer high frequencies than most competitors offer.
Ventilated front seats, supplied by renowned automotive textile specialist Benecke-Kaliko, provide another premium touch that’s particularly appreciated in India’s climate. The perforated leatherette upholstery not only looks upscale but offers practical comfort benefits during hot weather.
Exterior Design Evolution
The exterior design of the Nexon has evolved to complement its new luxury positioning. The front fascia features a more imposing presence with a raised hood, sleeker LED lighting elements with distinctive animations, and a more sophisticated interpretation of Tata’s “humanity line” grille design.
Profile views reveal more attention to detailing, with stronger character lines, dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels with diamond-cut finish, and subtle chrome accents that enhance the vehicle’s premium appearance without veering into ostentation.
The lighting signature deserves particular mention, with LED projector headlamps complemented by stylish daytime running lights that incorporate sequential turn indicators – a feature typically found in luxury European brands.
The rear lighting arrangement similarly employs LED technology with a distinctive illumination pattern that makes the Nexon instantly recognizable after dark.
Color options have been carefully curated to emphasize the vehicle’s premium positioning, with sophisticated choices like Grassland Beige, Royal Blue, and Carbon Black that possess greater depth and visual richness compared to the more basic palette typically offered in this segment.
Powertrain Refinement
Luxury extends beyond visual and tactile elements to encompass the driving experience itself. The Nexon’s powertrain options have been refined to deliver a more sophisticated driving character that aligns with its premium aspirations.
The 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine produces 120 PS and 170 Nm of torque, with particular attention paid to NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) characteristics.
Additional sound insulation and revised engine mounts have resulted in a quieter, more refined passenger compartment that better isolates occupants from mechanical intrusions.
Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed AMT, and the headline-grabbing 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that represents another luxury-oriented feature.
The DCT variant, with its crisp shifts and responsive character, delivers a driving experience more akin to premium European offerings, particularly when operated via the steering-mounted paddle shifters.
The diesel offering, a 1.5-liter turbocharged unit producing 115 PS and 260 Nm, has similarly benefited from refinement efforts, though it retains some characteristic diesel clatter under acceleration.
The CNG variant, powered by the 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine (a segment first), delivers 100 PS and 170 Nm – impressive figures for a factory-fitted CNG system.
Technology Integration
Technology serves as a key differentiator in the luxury space, and the Nexon has made significant strides in this area. The aforementioned dual 10.25-inch screens form the centerpiece of the technology package, but the features extend well beyond mere displays.
The connected car technology, branded as iRA 2.0, offers over 60 features accessible via smartphone application. These include remote engine start/stop, climate control preconditioning, vehicle location services, geofencing capabilities, driving behavior analysis, and over-the-air update functionality.
The 360-degree camera system provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle that’s invaluable in tight parking situations and represents another feature typically associated with more expensive vehicles. Image quality is commendable, with good resolution and brightness even in challenging lighting conditions.
The wireless charging pad supports fast charging protocols and includes a cooling system to prevent device overheating during extended use – a thoughtful engineering touch that demonstrates attention to real-world usability.
Safety as a Premium Feature
While safety isn’t traditionally categorized as a luxury feature, the comprehensive approach taken with the Nexon elevates it to premium status. The vehicle has earned a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP, putting it in rarefied company among compact SUVs globally.
All variants, including the base model, come equipped with six airbags – a feature that exceeds mandatory requirements and demonstrates Tata’s commitment to safety as a non-negotiable element rather than an upgrade consideration.
Additionally, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, and three-point seatbelts for all passengers are standard across the range.
The top variants supplement these core features with a tire pressure monitoring system, electronic parking brake with auto-hold functionality, and front parking sensors to complement the rear units.
Market Position and Competition
The Nexon’s panoramic sunroof and luxury features position it in an interesting market space – more premium than mainstream offerings like the Maruti Brezza but more accessible than European competitors like the Volkswagen Taigun.
Its closest philosophical competitor might be the Mahindra XUV 3XO, which similarly emphasizes premium features at competitive price points.
This middle ground appears to be resonating with consumers. Tata sold over 16,300 units of the Nexon (ICE and EV combined) in March 2025, demonstrating strong market acceptance despite intensifying competition in the segment.
The introduction of panoramic sunroof variants appears strategically timed to coincide with the festive season, traditionally a strong period for automotive sales in India. By offering this feature across petrol, diesel, and CNG powertrains, Tata has ensured that the premium experience is accessible regardless of fuel preference – a unique proposition in the segment.
Future Trajectory
The Nexon’s luxury evolution signals a broader shift in Tata Motors’ positioning strategy. By incorporating features previously reserved for vehicles one or two segments higher, Tata is redefining expectations for what constitutes a premium compact SUV.
Industry insiders suggest that this approach may extend to other models in the portfolio, potentially including ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features in future updates.
Some competitors have already introduced basic ADAS functions like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance, creating pressure for Tata to respond with its own implementation.
The panoramic sunroof, while significant, likely represents just one step in an ongoing premium evolution rather than a destination. As consumer expectations continue to rise and technology costs decrease, the distinction between mainstream and luxury features will continue to blur.
Ownership Experience
A truly luxury experience extends beyond the vehicle itself to encompass the ownership journey. Tata has made strides in this area, though opportunities for further enhancement remain.
The warranty package is competitive but not exceptional, with 3 years or 100,000 kilometers of coverage. Extended warranty options are available but represent an additional cost rather than a standard inclusion.
Service intervals are set at 10,000 kilometers or 12 months, which is in line with segment standards but doesn’t exceed them. The service network is extensive, with over 800 touchpoints nationwide, ensuring that most owners have convenient access to authorized maintenance.
Digital service booking, remote diagnostics through the connected car platform, and pick-up/drop services in major cities add convenience touches that enhance the ownership experience, though these features aren’t unique to Tata and have become increasingly common across brands.
Tata Nexon Conclusion
The addition of a panoramic sunroof to the Tata Nexon represents far more than a simple feature enhancement – it symbolizes the brand’s ambition to elevate the compact SUV experience beyond utilitarian transportation to something approaching genuine luxury.
By pairing this headline feature with thoughtful interior upgrades, refined powertrains, and comprehensive technology integration, Tata has created a compelling premium proposition at a price point that remains accessible to a broad swath of the market.
While certain aspects of fit and finish still reveal the vehicle’s mainstream origins, and some luxury touchpoints remain absent, the overall execution demonstrates remarkable progress in blurring the lines between mass-market and premium segments.
For consumers seeking luxury touches without the associated price tag, the panoramic sunroof-equipped Nexon variants offer a compelling balance that few competitors can match.
As consumer expectations continue to evolve and the definition of luxury becomes increasingly tied to experiences rather than brand prestige, Tata’s approach with the Nexon may prove prescient – delivering the features and sensations that matter most while maintaining the value proposition that made the model successful in the first place.