Nexon could be the next vehicle in the domestic lineup to receive JTP treatment as Tata targets expanding the JTP range
At the performance-based Tiago JTP and Tigor JTP launch, Tata Motors made its intentions clear about the JT Special Vehicles collaboration not being an one-off joint venture. The JTP range extension beyond Tiago and Tigor is possible in every certain way as the spiced up treatment will be exercised through the existing product lineup as well as upcoming Tata vehicles.
Additionally, the homegrown automaker will be bringing in performance enhancement kits in association with Coimbatore-based Jayem Automotives. Tata stated that “this is just the beginning… exciting times ahead!” as JTP oriented merchandise will also be up for sale in the near future.
With Tata reportedly revamping its dealerships with increased premium status quo ahead of the Harrier and 45X’s market entry, the JTP merchandise area would make for a perfect fit. Glancing over the current crop of vehicles, the Nexon subcompact SUV could become the next obvious choice for a JTP performance therapy.
The Nexon has a modern exterior with coupe-ish styling; the Kraz limited edition and IPL makeovers we have seen previously do give an indication of how good the SUV will adopt to visual enhancements. The Cabin, on the other hand, could very well deal with contrast stitching, sporty accents and other updates we might possibly expect on a JTP vehicle.
Moreover, the Nexon already has powerful engine choices: a 1.2-litre turbocharged Revotron petrol and a 1.5-litre Revotorq diesel making 110 PS/170 Nm and 110 PS/260 Nm respectively. Going by Tata and Jayem opting to upgrade the performance figures on the petrol version alone on the Tiago and Tigor, a further souped up Nexon 110 PS gasoline unit will likely make for a crazy deal of fun.
In retrospect, the Nexon will get a new rival in the form of Mahindra’s S201 in the coming months. The SsangYong Tivoli based SUV appears to get a slew of segment first features, besides the most powerful diesel engine in its class – 1.5-litre D15 unit making 123 PS.
Tata Motors could respond with a JTP prepped petrol or diesel Nexon to make matters more interesting. The Nexon has high kerb weight and to compensate that, performance-based mechanical updates and changes to the suspension setup for inducing firmer ride and handling characteristics could be welcoming. We do expect the Nexon JTP to arrive before the end of this decade.