Tata Nexon Diesel DCA Variant Leaked: Sportiest Sub-4m SUV with 7-Speed Gearbox

Tata Motors is shaking things up in the diesel SUV segment with the upcoming Curvv ICE, which will feature a quick-shifting 7-speed DCA (Dual Clutch Automatic) gearbox paired with a diesel engine. Recent leaks from Tata's official website suggest that this advanced diesel DCA powertrain could also be extended to the Tata Nexon, making it one of the most exciting launches in the sub-4m SUV category.

Tata Nexon Diesel DCA Variant: What We Know

Despite stringent BS6 emission norms pushing manufacturers towards cleaner fuels, diesel remains a popular choice among SUV buyers in India. Tata Motors seems to be capitalizing on this by enhancing the appeal of diesel powertrains. The leaked information reveals that the Tata Nexon Diesel DCA variant is in the works. The leaks show the Nexon diesel paired with a 7-speed DCA gearbox, specifically in the top-spec Fearless+ S persona.

What This Means for the Tata Nexon

If these leaks are accurate, the 7-speed DCA gearbox could also be available in other Nexon variants like Creative, Pure, and Smart personas. However, Tata might choose to reserve this powertrain combination for the top-spec Fearless persona-based trims. Currently, the Nexon diesel variants are only offered with a 6-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) gearbox.

The introduction of a DCA gearbox in a diesel-powered Nexon would be a significant move, as most manufacturers typically offer AMTs or torque converter automatic gearboxes with diesel engines. The only exceptions have been unique cases where CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) options have been paired with diesel engines. This marks the first time since the implementation of BS6 norms that a mainstream diesel car in India will feature a dual-clutch gearbox.

Potential Changes and Impact on the Market

The addition of a more sophisticated DCA gearbox is likely to come with a higher price tag. However, it could position the Nexon Diesel DCA as the sportiest and possibly the quickest accelerating sub-4m SUV in India. The Nexon’s 1.5L 4-cylinder diesel engine already has a 10 Nm torque advantage over its diesel rivals, and this could be further enhanced with the quick-shifting DCA gearbox.

Other powertrain options for the Nexon are expected to remain unchanged. There have also been rumours of a panoramic sunroof update for the Nexon to compete with the Mahindra XUV300. If these updates are rolled out together, the Nexon Diesel DCA could attract a significant wave of interest from sub-4m SUV buyers.

Conclusion

The leaked details of the Tata Nexon Diesel DCA variant suggest that Tata Motors is ready to set new benchmarks in the diesel SUV segment. With the potential launch of this variant alongside the Curvv ICE, Tata is poised to offer an exciting lineup that could redefine performance expectations in the sub-4m SUV category.

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