You might be wondering why are these three cars on the list for today’s comparison and what have they got in common? Well, the reason why we three on the list is because they all are offered with diesel AMT options. Among the list, the Nexon which is due for launch soon will emerge as the latest competitor against the likes of recently launched new-generation Maruti Suzuki Dzire and the Mahindra TUV300. Here below are the key differences between the three –
Exterior
The battle between the sedans and the SUVs has only been growing bigger and bigger each day. The same has been the case for the Dzire sedan and the Nexon SUV. Given the traditional approach of Indian customers and their love for sedans, it is not a surprise that the new-generation Dzire has emerged as an instant hit; especially with its well established presence in the country for a decade. The Nexon on the other hand represents Tata modern-approach which is well reflected through its products. The third one on the list, the TUV300 is a proper old-school SUV with a ladder-on-frame platform and rear-wheel drive set up. Owing to its conventional design, the TUV300 has a more modest look than the other two.
In terms of design, the Nexon and the Dzire steal that additional brownie points for their new-age styling elements. Yes, it does feel like comparing apple to oranges, but then given their popularity, they are both appealing in their own way.
Interior
The upcoming Tata Nexon AMT will be available in the XZA+ variant. It will be offered with a 6.5-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, voice commands and multi-functional steering wheel. Moreover, it is believed that the AMT version will also get automatic climate control, electric ORVMs, height adjustable driver seat among others. As for safety, the Nexon AMT will offer ABS with EBD, driver and passenger side airbags, park assist with rear sensors and reverse camera.
Mahindra TUV300 gets an AMT option in the T10 variant. The trim gets faux-leather seats with lumbar support for the driver and co-driver, height adjustable driver seat and electrically adjustable ORVMs. The T10 variant also gets a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with GPS, USB video and image playback, Bluetooth music and audio calling, Mahindra BlueSense, driver information system, steering mounted audio controls and two tweeters. The dashboard gets a piano black finish.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire on the other hand offers AMT in three variants – VDI, ZDI and ZDI Plus. As for the interior, the new generation model gets a complete new design for the dash, better quality plastics and soft touch materials. This car also has a flat bottom steering wheel with a wood insert, rear AC vents and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto/Mirror Link. Its dimensions have also increased in terms of height and width, thus affording more space inside the cabin, especially at the rear.
Engine
Tata Nexon will be powered by a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine mated to a six-speed AMT transmission that will generates 108bhp of power and 260Nm of torque. The TUV300 is powered by a 1.5-litre mHawk 100 diesel engine which is mated to a five-speed transmission and generates 99bhp and 240Nm of torque. The Dzire sedan on the other hand is powered by a 1.3-litre Multijet engine mated to a five-speed AMT to generate 75bhp of power and 190Nm of torque.
In terms of performance, the Nexon wins the game undoubtedly while the other two emerge as modest performers.
Conclusion
The price for the upcoming Tata Nexon AMT will be a key factor which will determine its success in the country. Loaded with features, it also competes strongly against the Maruti Suzuki strong player, the Dzire. Until the prices for the Nexon AMT is revealed, the Dzire sedan will continue to remain a popular choice among diesel AMT in India.