The Tata Nexon EV 45 is a game-changing electric vehicle (EV) that sets a new benchmark in the Indian automotive market. It brings a significant upgrade to Tata Motors’ electric lineup with a larger 45 kWh battery pack, offering extended range and improved performance.
With four trim options and a starting price of ₹16.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-spec Empowered+ variant, the Nexon EV 45 promises to deliver more value for eco-conscious buyers. In this review, we examine whether it justifies the hype and added cost.
An Elegant Design and Stylish Interior
The Tata Nexon EV 45 shares its design with the Nexon EV LR, with minimal differences. Its standout feature is the panoramic sunroof, while the alloy wheels, interior layout, and upholstery remain unchanged, with no distinct badging to highlight the larger battery.
For those looking for a more stylish option, the Red Dark Edition adds flair with an all-black exterior, red accents, and a red-upholstered interior. It also includes a 12-liter front trunk for the charging cable. However, drawbacks from the LR, like cramped rear seats, fit-and-finish issues, limited center console storage, and awkward USB placement, remain.
It’s Excellent Performance and Range
The Nexon EV 45’s key upgrade lies in its powertrain, featuring a larger 45 kWh battery pack replacing the LR’s 40.5 kWh unit. The electric motor has been upgraded to deliver 148 bhp, an increase of 5 bhp, while the torque remains unchanged at 215 Nm. As a result, the claimed driving range has improved from 390 km (MIDC) to 489 km (MIDC) and real-world estimates have risen from 310 km to 370 km.
The Nexon EV 45 brings improved charging capabilities, supporting 60 kW fast charging compared to the LR’s 50 kW limit. The EV also includes 3.2 kW and 7.2 kW AC charging options, which take approximately 17.5 hours and 6.5 hours, respectively, to fully charge the battery—slightly longer than the LR and MR models.
The additional 5 bhp in the Nexon EV 45 doesn’t noticeably change its performance, as it feels just as lively as the LR model. With a sub-9-second 0-100 kmph time and strong acceleration, it remains quick and responsive, especially in Sport mode.
The 45 retains the Nexon EV’s commendable ride and handling, with the suspension smoothing out bumps and providing stability at higher speeds. However, the larger battery slightly protrudes more, raising concerns over large speed breakers. Despite this, the car navigated all encountered speed bumps during testing without any issues.
Tata Nexon EV 45 Justifies Its Premium Price
The Tata Nexon EV 45 addresses the key concern of usable range, offering strong real-world performance that outshines the LR and MR variants. It comes with features like an air purifier, electronic parking brake, and a panoramic sunroof, exclusive to the Empowered+ trim. However, it still faces ergonomic issues, such as rear-seat comfort and limited storage space.
Is the premium worth it? Absolutely. The additional Rs 70,000 for the Empowered+ trim is justified by the improved range and added features. For those considering the mid-spec Fearless trims, the Rs 40,000 price difference mainly covers the larger battery. The Creative trim offers the 45 at Rs 13.99 lakh, Rs 1.5 lakh more than the MR variant, but the range jump to 370 km makes it a solid choice. While some features from the LR’s higher trims are missing, the Nexon EV 45 offers the best value, especially for long commutes.
