Maruti Brezza vs Tata Nexon: engine, features and safety compared
Brezza and Nexon are priced similarly but differ sharply in engines, safety tech and cabin features, making the choice a close call.
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Tata Nexon have been rivals in the compact SUV segment for several years. Both are priced in a similar range, but differ considerably in engine options, technology and features.
The Nexon offers a diesel engine along with an advanced safety feature, Level 2 ADAS, which the Brezza does not have. The Brezza, on the other hand, offers strong turbo-petrol and CNG options. Buyers need to weigh these differences before deciding which SUV suits them.
The Tata Nexon comes with three fuel options. Its 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine produces about 120hp, while the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine generates about 113hp. The turbo-CNG version also delivers 98.5hp on CNG mode, a figure few cars in the CNG segment match.
Maruti has completely discontinued the diesel option for the Brezza. The Brezza gets a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with 110hp, available only with a manual gearbox. It also has a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, available with both manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions. The Brezza's CNG version runs on the non-turbo engine and delivers about 88hp on CNG mode, slightly lower than the Nexon.
In terms of size, both SUVs share the same length of 3,995mm. The Brezza is 1,790mm wide against the Nexon's 1,804mm. In height, the Brezza measures 1,685mm and the Nexon 1,620mm. The wheelbase is 2,500mm for the Brezza and 2,498mm for the Nexon. Ground clearance stands at 198mm for the Brezza and 208mm for the Nexon. The Nexon leads in boot space with 382 litres, compared to 328 litres in the Brezza.
On ADAS and safety features, the Tata Nexon's top "Fearless+PS" variant is well ahead. It offers Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition, none of which are available in the Brezza. Both cars come with 6 airbags as standard. The Brezza's turbo variant offers blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert, but overall the Nexon's safety features are more comprehensive.
On cabin and interior features, the Tata Nexon offers a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 9-speaker JBL sound system with subwoofer, a voice-controlled panoramic sunroof, and a larger 382-litre boot in the petrol and CNG versions. Its top petrol variant also offers a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCA) gearbox option.
The Maruti Brezza's ZXi+ variant comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, built-in Alexa, an ARKAMYS sound system and a 48-litre fuel tank. This is larger than the Nexon's 44-litre tank, reducing the need for frequent refuelling. The Brezza uses a conventional torque-converter automatic gearbox.
Buyers who want a diesel engine, Level 2 ADAS safety and a larger boot will find the Tata Nexon a clearer, better option. But those looking to cut running costs with CNG or petrol options, who like built-in Alexa technology and prefer a torque-converter automatic, will find the Maruti Brezza suitable. On-road prices for both vehicles vary by city and variant, so checking with a dealership is advisable.
