Tata Nexon AMT Review: Should You Pick the Automatic?

Tata Nexon AMT review

Automatic cars used to be a luxury in India. You either needed to stretch your budget a lot or settle for something underpowered. That has changed with AMT gearboxes. They are affordable, simple and easy to drive in traffic without the fatigue of a clutch pedal. The Tata Nexon AMT combines the Nexon’s safety package, feature list, and SUV design with the convenience of an automatic gearbox.  Moreover, there is the added ease of an automatic without a big price jump.

But is the Nexon AMT worth picking over the manual, or even over the more expensive DCT version? Here is all that you should know before making a decision.

What is an AMT?

AMT stands for Automated Manual Transmission. It is basically a regular manual gearbox, but a computer handles the clutch and gear changes for you. You do not press the clutch pedal at all.

The main difference from a CVT or DCT is that AMT is simpler to build and much cheaper. That is why it is used in many affordable cars and SUVs in India. The main trade-off is that gear changes can feel slightly jerky at low speeds. It is not as smooth as a CVT or DCT, but for most city driving, it can do its job well.

The Nexon AMT also comes with paddle shifters and a manual mode, so you can take control of gear changes when you want to.

ALSO READ: TATA NEXON ON-ROAD PRICE IN NEW DELHI

Tata Nexon AMT: Which Variants Get It?

Not every Nexon variant comes with AMT. Here are all AMT variants available right now, along with ex-showroom prices:

Tata Nexon Petrol AMT Variants

VariantEngine & TransmissionPrice (Ex-Showroom)
Smart Plus AMT1199 cc, Automatic, Petrol₹8.82 Lakh
Pure Plus AMT1199 cc, Automatic, Petrol₹9.60 Lakh
Pure Plus S AMT1199 cc, Automatic, Petrol₹9.88 Lakh
Pure Plus PS AMT1199 cc, Automatic, Petrol₹10.15 Lakh
Creative AMT1199 cc, Automatic, Petrol₹10.75 Lakh
Creative Plus S AMT1199 cc, Automatic, Petrol₹11.05 Lakh
Creative Plus S Dark AMT1199 cc, Automatic, Petrol₹11.47 Lakh

Tata Nexon Diesel AMT Variants

VariantSpecsPrice (Ex-Showroom)
Pure Plus Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹10.65 Lakh
Pure Plus PS Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹11.20 Lakh
Creative Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹11.85 Lakh
Creative Plus S Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹12.15 Lakh
Creative Plus PS DT Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹12.42 Lakh
Creative Plus PS Dark Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹13.47 Lakh 
Creative Plus S Dark Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹12.52 Lakh 
Fearless Plus PS DT Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹14.02 Lakh 
Fearless Plus PS Dark Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹14.22 Lakh (Top Model)
Fearless Plus PS Red Dark Diesel AMT1497 cc, Automatic, Diesel₹14.15 Lakh 

All prices are ex-showroom. On-road prices will vary by city based on RTO, road tax, and insurance charges.

ALSO READ: TATA NEXON EV vs TATA NEXON PETROL 2026

The AMT is available from the Smart+ variant all the way up to the top-spec Fearless+ PS. If you want ADAS, you will need to go for the DCT variant. ADAS is only available on the Fearless+ PS DCA petrol.

Tata Nexon AMT Specifications

SpecificationPetrol AMTDiesel AMT
Engine1.2L Turbo Petrol (Revotron)1.5L Turbo Diesel (Revotorq)
Power118.27 bhp @ 5500 rpm113.31 bhp @ 3750 rpm
Torque170 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm260 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
Transmission6-speed AMT6-speed AMT
ARAI Mileage17.18 kmpl24.08 kmpl
Fuel Tank44 litres44 litres
Ground Clearance208 mm208 mm
Boot Space382 litres382 litres
Length3,995 mm3,995 mm
Wheelbase2,498 mm2,498 mm
Safety Rating5-star (Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP)5-star (Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP)

Petrol AMT vs Diesel AMT: Which One Suits You?

Now let’s compare the Nexon petrol AMT with Nexon Diesel AMT:

Petrol AMT

The 1.2L turbo petrol makes 118.27 bhp and 170 Nm of torque. It is a good combination for city use. The engine is responsive enough for daily driving, and the AMT handles slow-speed traffic well. On highways, the petrol AMT is comfortable at normal cruising speeds, although quick overtakes may require planning. 

The ARAI mileage is 17.18 kmpl. Real-world city figures usually come in between 11-13 kmpl depending on traffic conditions. The petrol AMT starts at Rs. 8.82 lakh, which makes it one of the most affordable automatic SUVs in India.

However, there is one important thing to keep in mind. The petrol AMT has a slightly noticeable head nod during gear changes, especially in bumper-to-bumper traffic. You get used to it quickly, but it is worth experiencing on a test drive before you book.

Best for: City commuters who want an automatic without paying DCT prices. Also a good pick for first-time automatic buyers.

ALSO READ: TATA NEXON vs MARUTI BREZZA

Diesel AMT

The diesel is where the AMT setup really works well. The 1.5L diesel produces 113.3 bhp and a strong 260 Nm of torque. The strong low-end torque means the AMT does not need to shift as frequently, which makes the diesel version feel more relaxed in everyday driving. It also reduces the need for frequent downshifts during overtaking.  

The ARAI mileage of 24.08 kmpl is very impressive for a compact SUV with an automatic gearbox. Highway trips become very cost-effective. The diesel AMT handles overtaking on highways confidently too, without needing to push the engine hard.

Best for: Buyers who drive 1,500 km or more per month or do regular highway runs. The fuel savings over time make the higher upfront cost worth it.

Tata Nexon AMT Mileage

VariantARAI MileageTypical Real-World Mileage
Petrol AMT17.18 kmpl11-13 kmpl (city), 15-17 kmpl (highway)
Diesel AMT24.08 kmpl15-17 kmpl (city), 19-21 kmpl (highway)

The diesel AMT delivers among the better mileage figures in the compact SUV automatic segment 

Key Features of the Tata Nexon AMT

Features vary by trim level, but here is what you can expect across the AMT range:

  • Infotainment: Higher-spec Creative and Fearless variants get a 10.25-inch floating touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Lower AMT variants get a smaller touchscreen but still come with phone connectivity. Higher variants get Tata iRA connected car features, depending on the trim.
  • Safety: All Nexon variants get 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, traction control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and front disc brakes as standard. The Nexon’s 5-star ratings in Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP strengthen its safety credentials in this segment. Higher variants also have a 360-degree camera and TPMS.
  • Comfort: Higher AMT variants are available with features such as a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, cruise control, and multi-drive modes.
  • AMT-Specific Features: The Nexon AMT gets a monostable gear shifter, paddle shifters on the steering wheel, and a manual mode for when you want to control gear changes yourself. The creep function makes moving in slow traffic feel more natural.

Pros and Cons of the Tata Nexon AMT

ProsCons
5-star safety rating from Global NCAP and BNCAPGear changes can feel jerky in very slow traffic
Diesel AMT mileage of 24.08 kmpl is best in classADAS is not available on AMT variants
Petrol AMT starts at just Rs. 8.82 lakhPetrol AMT real-world city mileage is modest
Strong diesel torque works well in city and on highwaysBoot space of 382 litres is slightly lower than some rivals
Paddle shifters and manual mode for more controlSome lower cabin plastics feel less premium compared to rivals. 
Panoramic sunroof available on mid-spec AMT trims

Should You Buy the Tata Nexon AMT?

If you want an automatic compact SUV under Rs. 14-15 lakh and you mostly drive in the city, the Tata Nexon AMT is a very good option. The 5-star safety rating sets it apart from most rivals at this price. The diesel AMT offers mileage that is hard to match in the segment, and the petrol AMT gives you automatic convenience at a very affordable price.

However, you can also take a look at other choices if smooth gear changes matter a lot to you. In that case, the Nexon DCT or the Hyundai Creta with its smoother iVT automatic might feel better to drive. The Creta and Kia Seltos also offer a more premium cabin feel. You can read our detailed comparison of the Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos to see how they compare.

The Nexon AMT makes the most sense for buyers who prioritise safety, running costs, and a hassle-free automatic.

Final Word

The Tata Nexon AMT offers very good value for money. At under Rs. 15 lakh, you get a compact SUV with strong safety credentials, a 5-star rating, and an automatic option that remains practical and affordable to run. It is not the most refined automatic in the segment, but it is still one of the best buys at this price.

If you want to learn more before making your decision, check out our guide to the Hyundai Creta Automatic vs Manual and Hyundai Creta Petrol vs Diesel to see how the Nexon’s closest rivals compare.

And if you are also thinking about going electric, our roundup of the Best Electric Cars in India: 2026 is worth reading before making a final decision.

All specifications and prices are ex-showroom and subject to change. ARAI mileage figures are under standard test conditions. Real-world mileage will vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Tata Nexon AMT petrol or diesel? 

It depends on how much you drive. If you cover 1,500 km or more per month or do frequent highway trips, the diesel AMT at 24.08 kmpl makes more financial sense over time. For mostly city driving under 1,000-1,200 km per month, the petrol AMT starting at Rs. 8.82 lakh is the more budget-friendly choice.

Is the Tata Nexon AMT smooth to drive in city traffic? 

It is comfortable enough for daily city use. However, gear changes are not as smooth as a CVT or DCT. At very low speeds in bumper-to-bumper traffic, there is a slight head nod during shifts, which is common in AMT gearboxes. Many drivers adapt to it after spending some time behind the wheel. The creep function also helps in slow-moving traffic.

Does the Tata Nexon AMT have paddle shifters? 

Yes. The Nexon AMT comes with paddle shifters on the steering wheel and a manual mode that lets you control gear changes yourself. This gives you more driving control when you want it, without taking away the convenience of automatic mode.

What is the starting price of the Tata Nexon AMT? 

The Tata Nexon AMT starts at Rs. 8.82 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Smart+ AMT petrol variant. The diesel AMT range starts at Rs. 10.65 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Pure Plus Diesel AMT.

Does the Tata Nexon AMT get ADAS?

 No. ADAS is only available on the Fearless+ PS DCA (DCT) petrol variant. If ADAS is important to you, you will need to go for the DCT variant, which is priced higher.

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