Comparison: Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon

Maruti Vitara Brezza and Tata Nexon have a close rivalry in the compact SUV segment in India. Coming from two well-known brands that are recognized for their long lineage of value-for-money cars, the expectations from these two models is also high. With such close competition, it can be difficult to make a choice between the two Indian compact SUVs. We compare the Maruti Vitara Brezza (2020-21) against the Tata Nexon to answer which compact SUV should be higher on your list when you’re looking at your next upgrade.

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Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon : Dimensions

As the specs clearly indicate, both the Tata Nexon and the Maruti Vitara Brezza have only minor differences in their dimensions. Their designs, however, have significant differences, with the Nexon flaunting an aggressive style, while the Brezza presents a traditional, box-style design. The difference doesn’t end there as the Nexon provides a luxurious and futuristic look while the Brezza goes for a more spacious and functional aesthetic.

The dimensions are also important to understand the space on offer in both compact SUVs. The Tata Nexon has a slightly shorter wheelbase than the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, which equates to a little more legroom for rear passengers in the Maruti compact SUV. The Nexon, however, trades some legroom for a larger boot space of 350 litres as compared to the 328 litres of boot space in the Vitara Brezza. Choosing between the Nexon and Vitara Brezza comes down to the type of design you prefer as well as the space you prefer to have inside.

Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon: Engine and Transmission

While the Tata Nexon is available in both petrol and diesel variants, the Maruti Vitara Brezza is currently limited only to the petrol variant. In fact, this becomes quite an advantage for the former as the turbocharged petrol and diesel engines produce exceptional power. The diesel variant of the Nexon is a distinct advantage over the Maruti compact SUV as it provides a strong choice.

On the other hand, the inclusion of a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox on the Vitara Brezza offers a smoother performance over the Nexon’s 6-speed AMT automatic transmission. Making a choice here comes down to the requirement of a diesel engine, which will make the Nexon the more attractive option. In terms of petrol engines, both compact SUVs are evenly matched.

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Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon: Performance

With most parameters being equal on these compact SUVs, the performance comparison between the Tata Nexon and the Maruti Vitara Brezza will be the key differentiator between the two. Comparing the petrol variants of the Nexon and Vitara Brezza, it is evident that the Nexon provides more power and torque than the Maruti Vitara Brezza. The Nexon’s turbo petrol engine allows Tata compact SUV to accelerate better and reach a higher top speed for a more enjoyable driving performance.

Where the Vitara Brezza does excel is in the mileage department. The addition of Maruti’s mild hybrid SHVS system provides a boost to the mileage while aiding low end power delivery. In city traffic, the Vitara Brezza’s mild hybrid system will help provide higher mileage than the Nexon. For the more frugal driver, the Vitara Brezza is the more attractive choice.

Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon: Features and Comfort

The feature list is where Maruti’s value-oriented approach restricts the Vitara Brezza’s appeal. While the essential features of a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, and rain-sensing wipers are present, the Nexon takes the lead with some additional convenience-focused features.

The Tata Nexon comes equipped with an 8-speaker Harman sound system, electric sunroof on higher variants, and a digital instrument cluster. These features add a premium touch to the Nexon, giving it an edge over the Vitara Brezza.

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Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon: Safety Features

Both the SUVs come equipped with rear parking sensors, child safety locks, and central locking as well as two front airbags and ABS with EBD as standard. The only difference between the two cars is the presence of the automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers on the Tata Nexon. These features add a layer of convenience and are good features to have in certain situations.

Their safety scores, however, present a story of their own. The Tata Nexon has achieved a full 5-star rating for adult occupant protection and a 3-star rating for child occupant protection in the Global NCAP crash test. On the other hand, the Maruti Brezza has scored 4 stars on the same tests. While both compact SUVs are among the safest cars in India, the Tata Nexon provides a little extra peace of mind when it comes to safety.

FAQs on Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon

Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon: Pricing

There is only a slight difference between the prices of both cars. The Tata Nexon starts at a price of Rs. 7.28 lakh, slightly lower than Vitara Brezza’s starting price of Rs. 7.69 lakh. While the entry-level and mid-level variants are priced competitively against each other, the high end variants have a greater gap between the models. The top end Vitara Brezza variant is cheaper by Rs. 1 lakh than the Tata Nexon top end variant, offering better value for those looking for the complete package.

In terms of variant spread, the Tata Nexon features 65 trims, distributed across 5 variants, among which XE is the base trim while the XZ+(O) is the high-end model. The Maruti Vitara Brezza, on the other hand, is simpler with only 9 variants on offer. Its base model is the LXI, while the ZXI series is the top-end lineup. Because of the higher number of variants on the Nexon, there is a greater range of flexibility when it comes to choosing the right mix of features for yourself.

Maruti Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon: Conclusion

The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza and Tata Nexon are equally competent compact SUVs that have their advantages and disadvantages. You won’t go wrong choosing either of these compact SUVs but for the purposes of this comparison, there is one that inches ahead of the other. A slightly better Global NCAP rating, premium features like automatic headlamps, 8-speaker sound system, and the option of a diesel engine makes the Tata Nexon a more fully featured compact SUV to own.

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FAQ about Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs Tata Nexon

Is Vitara Brezza bigger than Nexon?

Both Brezza and Nexon are very similar in dimensions with slight differences. While the Brezza is bigger in some aspects, the Nexon is in others. For example, the boot space is bigger in the Nexon, with a 350L capacity as compared to Brezza’s 328L. The height of the car, on the other hand, is bigger in the case of the Brezza.

Is Nexon petrol better than Vitara Brezza?

In terms of overall performance, the Nexon’s turbo petrol engine provides more torque than the Maruti Brezza, which translates to better acceleration. The Brezza’s naturally aspirated engine provides slightly better fuel efficiency than the Nexon.

Which automatic car is better: Maruti Vitara Brezza or Tata Nexon?

The Maruti Vitara Brezza’s 4-speed torque converter AT offers a smoother driving experience than the Tata Nexon’s 6-speed AMT.

Which car is safer: Maruti Vitara Brezza or Tata Nexon?

The Tata Nexon has scored a 5-star safety rating in the GNCAP safety test while the Maruti Vitara Brezza has scored a 4-star safety rating in the same test.