Three years and 75,000 kilometers – that’s the journey we’ve undertaken with our Tata Nexon long-term test vehicle. In a market flooded with new launches and ever-changing consumer preferences, the true test of any vehicle lies not in its showroom appeal but in its ability to withstand the rigors of daily Indian driving conditions over an extended period.
This comprehensive long-term review goes beyond the usual first impressions and short-term tests to deliver an honest, warts-and-all assessment of what it’s really like to live with the Tata Nexon. From the gleaming new car that rolled out of the showroom in 2022 to the battle-hardened companion that has seen everything from bumper-to-bumper Mumbai traffic to high-speed highway runs and rough rural roads, we’ve documented every service, every repair, every unexpected issue, and every moment of driving pleasure.
Whether you’re a prospective buyer trying to make an informed decision or a current owner curious about what the future might hold, this detailed account of our 75,000-kilometer ownership experience will provide valuable insights that no brochure or short test drive ever could.
Vehicle Specifications & Ownership Timeline
Test Vehicle Details:
Model: Tata Nexon XZ+ HS Diesel
Variant: Fearless Plus S Diesel AMT
Manufacturing Date: January 2022
Purchase Date: March 2022
Current Odometer: 75,450 km
Color: Downtown Red
Service History: All services at authorized Tata service centers
Ownership Timeline:
Year 1 (0-25,000 km): The honeymoon period with initial observations
Year 2 (25,000-50,000 km): The reliability test phase
Year 3 (50,000-75,000 km): The long-term durability assessment
The Honeymoon Period: 0-25,000 Km
Initial Impressions (First 5,000 km):
Positives:
Build Quality: Solid feel with excellent panel gaps and paint quality
Ride Comfort: Best-in-class ride quality over broken roads
Feature Rich: Impressive equipment list for the price point
AMT Behavior: Jerky low-speed shifts in city traffic
Infotainment Glitches: Occasional system freezes and reboots
Wind Noise: Noticeable at highway speeds above 100 km/h
Fuel Efficiency: Lower than claimed figures in city conditions
First Service (10,000 km):
Cost: ₹ 4,850
Work Done: Oil change, filter replacement, general inspection
Issues Addressed: Software update for AMT calibration
Service Experience: Professional and timely
25,000 Km Verdict:
The vehicle felt fresh and well-built, with the ride quality being the standout feature. Early concerns about the AMT’s city manners were noted, but overall satisfaction remained high.
The Reliability Test: 25,000-50,000 Km
Daily Driving Experience:
City Performance:
Fuel Efficiency: Consistent 16-17 km/l in mixed city conditions
AMT Adaptation: Learned to work around shift characteristics
Brake Performance: Excellent with minimal fade
Maneuverability: Easy to place in tight parking spots
Highway Manners:
Cruising Ability: Stable and confident at triple-digit speeds
Overtaking: Adequate performance with planning required
Seat Comfort: Driver seat showed slight sagging after 35,000 km
AC Performance: Consistently effective in all conditions
Major Service (40,000 km):
Cost: ₹ 18,650
Work Done: Comprehensive service including brake fluid change
Parts Replaced: Air filter, cabin filter, fuel filter
Unexpected Issues: None
Problems Encountered (25,000-50,000 km):
Minor Issues:
Dashboard Rattles: Developed around 30,000 km, fixed under warranty
Door Seal Noise: Whistling sound from driver’s door at high speed
Infotainment Screen: Developed dead pixels at 45,000 km
Major Concerns:
Clutch Wear: AMT clutch showing signs of wear at 48,000 km
Suspension Noise: Front suspension clunk noise developing
50,000 Km Verdict:
The Nexon proved fundamentally reliable with no major breakdowns. However, several niggles emerged that required attention, and the AMT’s limitations became more apparent with higher mileage.
The Durability Assessment: 50,000-75,000 Km
Performance Evolution:
Engine & Transmission:
Engine Refinement: Slight increase in NVH levels
AMT Performance: More pronounced shift shocks
Clutch Replacement: Required at 62,000 km (₹ 12,500)
Fuel Efficiency: Maintained consistent figures
Ride & Handling:
Suspension: Front struts replaced at 68,000 km (₹ 9,800)
Steering: Remained precise with minimal play
Brakes: Discs and pads replaced at 65,000 km (₹ 14,200)
Interior Wear & Tear:
Seat Bolstering: Significant wear on driver’s seat
Steering Wheel: Leather wrapping showing wear
Switchgear: All controls functioning perfectly
Carpet Quality: Holding up well despite heavy use
Major Service (60,000 km):
Cost: ₹ 22,300
Work Done: Comprehensive service including timing belt
Additional Work: Suspension overhaul, brake system service
Out-of-Warranty Repairs: Several components replaced
Maintenance & Running Costs Analysis
Complete Service History & Costs:
Service Interval
Cost (₹)
Work Done
Issues Addressed
10,000 km
4,850
Basic service
AMT software update
20,000 km
6,200
Regular service
Dashboard rattle fix
30,000 km
8,500
Comprehensive
Door seal replacement
40,000 km
18,650
Major service
Fuel filter replacement
50,000 km
7,800
Regular service
Wheel alignment
60,000 km
22,300
Major service
Timing belt, suspension
70,000 km
9,500
Regular service
General maintenance
Unexpected Repair Costs:
AMT Clutch Assembly: ₹ 12,500 (62,000 km)
Front Suspension Struts: ₹ 9,800 (68,000 km)
Brake Discs & Pads: ₹ 14,200 (65,000 km)
Infotainment Screen: ₹ 8,500 (45,000 km, warranty claim)
Total Ownership Cost (75,000 km):
Service & Maintenance: ₹ 87,900
Fuel Costs: ₹ 3,45,000 (approx.)
Insurance: ₹ 1,05,000 (3 years)
Tyres: ₹ 32,000 (replaced at 55,000 km)
Total Running Cost: ₹ 5,69,900
The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
What We Loved:
Standout Positives:
Ride Quality: Remains exceptional even after 75,000 km
Build Integrity: No major structural or mechanical failures
Safety Confidence: Solid build inspires trust in all conditions
Diesel Performance: Strong mid-range perfect for Indian roads
After-Sales Support: Generally good service experience
Pleasant Surprises:
Paint Durability: Minimal chips and scratches despite heavy use
Electrical Reliability: No major electrical failures
AC Performance: Consistently powerful even in peak summer
Resale Value: Better than expected market value
What We Didn’t Like:
Persistent Issues:
AMT Limitations: Never fully adapted to city driving
NVH Levels: Increased noticeably after 50,000 km
Quality Niggles: Multiple small issues requiring attention
Service Costs: Higher than Japanese competitors
Fuel Efficiency: Below segment leaders
Major Disappointments:
Clutch Life: AMT clutch wear earlier than expected
Suspension Durability: Components needed early replacement
Negative: AMT transmission, service history, interior wear
Ownership Cost per Kilometer:
Depreciation: ₹ 8.67/km
Fuel: ₹ 4.57/km
Maintenance: ₹ 1.17/km
Total Cost: ₹ 14.41/km
Final Verdict After 75,000 Km
Would We Buy It Again?
Yes, If:
Prioritizing Safety: The 5-star rating provides peace of mind
Ride Quality Matters: Still unbeaten in the segment
Diesel Makes Sense: For high mileage users
Budget Conscious: Good value for money
No, If:
Automatic is Must: Would choose DCT or look at competitors
Low Maintenance Priority: Japanese brands offer better reliability
City-Only Usage: Petrol manual would be better suited
Premium Experience: Some rivals offer better interiors
Overall Rating (After 75,000 km): 7.5/10
Breakdown:
Performance: 7/10
Reliability: 7/10
Comfort: 9/10
Running Costs: 7/10
Service Experience: 7/10
Value Retention: 8/10
Recommendations for Prospective Buyers
Choose Tata Nexon If:
You drive 15,000+ km annually
Ride comfort is your top priority
Safety is non-negotiable
You frequently encounter bad roads
Budget is around ₹ 10-15 lakhs
Look Elsewhere If:
You want a smooth automatic for city use
Low maintenance costs are critical
You prefer premium interior quality
Fuel efficiency is the primary concern
You keep cars beyond 5 years
Specific Advice:
Variant Choice: Go for Creative or Fearless variants
Transmission: Choose manual if possible, DCT over AMT
Fuel Type: Diesel for high mileage, Petrol for city use
Service: Stick to authorized centers during warranty
Conclusion
The Tata Nexon has been a faithful companion through 75,000 kilometers of diverse Indian driving conditions. It has proven its mettle as a safe, comfortable, and fundamentally reliable family SUV that excels where it matters most – ride quality and structural integrity. However, it’s not without its flaws, particularly in transmission refinement and long-term component durability.
For the right buyer – someone who values safety and comfort above all else, and is willing to live with some niggles and higher-than-expected maintenance costs – the Nexon remains a compelling choice. But as the market evolves and competitors improve, Tata will need to address reliability concerns and improve transmission options to maintain the Nexon’s leadership position.
Final Word: The Nexon delivers on its core promises of safety and comfort, but be prepared for some ownership compromises along the way.
FAQs
How reliable has the Nexon been over 75,000 km?
The Nexon has been fundamentally reliable with no major breakdowns, but several niggles and component replacements were required, particularly with the AMT transmission and suspension components.
What was the most expensive repair?
The most expensive single repair was the 60,000 km major service costing ₹ 22,300, which included timing belt replacement and suspension work.
How much has maintenance cost per year?
Average annual maintenance cost was approximately ₹ 29,300, excluding fuel and insurance costs.
Would you recommend the AMT transmission?
For city-heavy usage, we cannot recommend the AMT. It’s better suited for highway-oriented driving or for buyers who specifically want an affordable automatic.
How has the fuel efficiency held up?
Fuel efficiency decreased slightly from 19.2 km/l in the first 25,000 km to 18.1 km/l in the last 25,000 km, which is normal for a diesel engine with higher mileage.
What are the must-check items when buying a used Nexon?
Check AMT clutch life, suspension condition, service history, infotainment functionality, and look for any dashboard rattles or interior wear.
Is the Nexon still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, particularly if you prioritize safety and ride comfort. However, evaluate your transmission choice carefully and be prepared for higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors.
Tags: Tata Nexon long term review, Nexon 75000 km review, Tata Nexon reliability, Nexon ownership cost, Nexon maintenance, Tata after sales service, used car review, SUV long term test
