Tata Motors is testing the next-generation Nexon ahead of its expected 2027 arrival, and the latest test mule has revealed an interesting detail — alloy wheels that look similar to those used on the Tata Curvv. The sighting has sparked speculation that Tata could be evaluating a larger wheel-and-tyre package for the upcoming compact SUV. However, the wheel size has not been officially confirmed, so the possibility of 18-inch alloys should be treated as an expectation rather than a confirmed feature.

The next-generation Nexon is expected to bring more substantial changes than the current model's previous facelifts, with spy shots already pointing towards a revised body profile and more upright rear section.

Curvv-Style Alloys Seen on the New Nexon

The latest prototype has been spotted wearing black and machined alloy wheels with a petal-like design that resembles the alloys offered on the Tata Curvv.

The similarity is particularly interesting because the Curvv is positioned above the Nexon in Tata's SUV range and is available with larger wheel options. The Curvv's higher variants use 18-inch alloys, while some variants use 17-inch wheels.

However, simply seeing Curvv-style wheels on a development vehicle does not confirm that the production Nexon will receive the same size.

Development prototypes often use existing wheels and tyres while engineers evaluate different combinations.

Are 18-Inch Alloys Coming to the Nexon?

Possibly, but there is no confirmation yet.

The current Nexon uses 16-inch alloy wheels on its higher-spec variants. An 18-inch setup would therefore represent a significant increase in wheel diameter.

There is some precedent for Tata testing future models with wheels borrowed from another vehicle.

During development of the Harrier facelift, test vehicles were spotted using 19-inch alloys from the Tata Hexa. The production Harrier facelift subsequently received a 19-inch wheel option on selected variants, although the final wheel design was different.

That history makes the latest Nexon sighting worth watching, but it still does not establish that an 18-inch production wheel will be offered.

What the wheel change could mean

If Tata eventually introduces 18-inch wheels, they could:

• Give the Nexon a more substantial road presence
• Complement the new SUV's expected wider-looking stance
• Allow Tata to offer a more premium appearance on higher variants
• Bring the Nexon closer to larger-wheel competitors

The final tyre size and suspension calibration would be equally important, however, because larger wheels can affect ride comfort, tyre costs and low-speed response.

The New Nexon Looks More Upright

The alloy wheels are only one part of the ongoing Nexon development story.

Earlier test mules have shown changes around the A-pillar, C-pillar, rear doors and rear windscreen. The latest prototypes appear to have a more upright and boxier rear profile than the current Nexon.

The current Nexon has a relatively sloping roof towards the rear. The new prototype appears to maintain more height around the second-row area before transitioning into the rear section.

If this design reaches production, it could change the visual proportions of the SUV and potentially provide more usable space around the rear cabin. However, the actual dimensions and interior space of the production vehicle are not yet known.

New-Generation Nexon Expected in 2027

The upcoming model is expected to represent a more significant change than the 2020 and 2023 updates.

The current-generation Nexon was originally introduced in 2017, followed by major updates in 2020 and 2023. Reports indicate that Tata is now working towards a full-generation update for the SUV, with the new model expected sometime in 2027.

The development programme has reportedly been associated with the internal name Project Garud, although Tata Motors has not officially confirmed the name or launch timeline.

What About the Engine Options?

Reports suggest that Tata could continue offering a broad range of powertrains with the next-generation Nexon.

The existing Nexon range includes petrol, diesel, CNG and electric versions. Current reports indicate that the next-generation model could continue with multiple powertrain choices, although the final specifications and combinations have not been confirmed by Tata Motors.

An updated Nexon EV is also expected as part of Tata's future product strategy, but its exact specifications and launch timing remain unconfirmed.

Expected Powertrain Direction
 

Could the New Nexon Become More Premium?

The larger wheels could be part of a broader move to make the next-generation Nexon feel more premium.

Reports based on earlier test mules have suggested that Tata could introduce a revised cabin, updated infotainment system, additional technology and further safety features. Some reports have also mentioned Level 2 ADAS and other equipment, but these should not be considered confirmed until Tata releases official specifications.

The current Nexon already offers equipment such as a large touchscreen, digital instrument display, connected-car technology and advanced safety features on selected variants.

The next-generation model could therefore focus on updating the overall cabin experience rather than simply adding a new exterior design.

Tata Nexon vs Current Model: What Could Change?
 

Why the Alloy Wheel Sighting Matters

At first glance, an alloy wheel change may appear to be a minor detail. However, the latest sighting provides another indication that Tata is experimenting with the next Nexon's proportions and overall positioning.

An 18-inch wheel would be particularly notable because the current Nexon is a sub-four-metre SUV traditionally focused on a balance between compact dimensions, efficiency and practicality.

If Tata does eventually offer 18-inch wheels, they would likely be restricted to selected higher variants rather than the entire range.

The 2027 Tata Nexon is shaping up to be a more substantial update than another conventional facelift, with recent test vehicles showing changes to the body profile and now Curvv-like alloy wheels.

The possibility of 18-inch alloys is interesting, but it remains unconfirmed. The test mule may simply be using existing Tata wheels while engineers evaluate a different wheel-and-tyre combination.

What is clearer is that Tata is actively testing the next-generation Nexon, which is expected to arrive in India in 2027. More details about its dimensions, interior, engines, wheel sizes and equipment should emerge as testing progresses.