Tata Nexon iCNG Officially Confirmed: All You Need To Know About Maruti Brezza CNG Challenger

The country’s third-largest carmaker, Tata Motors, has officially confirmed the launch of the Nexon iCNG. This new CNG sub-compact SUV will be taking on the already immensely popular Maruti Brezza CNG in the country once launched. Today, we thought we should bring to you a comparison of these two direct rivals to find out which one could become the new segment champion.

Powertrain comparison

Tata Nexon iCNG

Before diving into anything else, let’s first talk about the powertrains of the two SUVs. The first is the new Tata Nexon iCNG. It is set to become the first-ever CNG car in India to feature a turbocharged three-cylinder engine. This 1.2-litre turbo engine is expected to produce 118 bhp and 170 Nm of torque in petrol mode.

As we already know, the Nexon iCNG will feature Tata’s twin-cylinder technology. We have already seen this efficient method of adding CNG tanks to optimize boot space in the Tata Punch and Altroz iCNG.

Maruti Brezza CNG

On the other hand, the current most popular CNG sub-compact SUV, Maruti Brezza CNG, comes powered by its time-tested 1.5-litre K-series petrol engine. This reliable motor generates 88 bhp and 121 Nm of torque in CNG mode. This is down from 102 bhp and 137 Nm in petrol mode.

This engine comes paired with a five-speed manual transmission. Maruti claims a mileage of 25.51 km/kg for the Brezza CNG, emphasizing fuel efficiency over raw power.

Which is going to be better?

Till now, the Brezza’s engine has been the preferred choice of many CNG car buyers in the country. However, once Tata Motors launches the Nexon iCNG in India, we believe that its turbocharged engine with more power is going to take the cake.

Design and Dimensions

Tata Nexon iCNG

Now that we have talked about the main highlight of the upcoming Tata Nexon iCNG, let’s talk about its exterior and interior design updates. From the pictures that we have seen so far, it can be noted that the SUV has retained its stylish exterior and interior design from its ICE counterparts.

The already popular Nexon features a bold and aggressive design. Its split headlamp design at the front and its connected LED taillights in the rear have made Indian car buyers its fans. The interior is also expected to be the same with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument gauge cluster.

Maruti Brezza CNG

The Brezza CNG continues to boast the same exterior design elements as the ICE model. The only difference on the outside is the badge that this SUV comes with, which signifies its CNG kit.

Meanwhile, on the inside, the Brezza CNG sports an all-black interior, providing a clean and modern look. It also comes fairly equipped with a freestanding 9-inch Smartplay Pro infotainment screen and an automatic climate control system, among other features.

Our thoughts

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG’s exterior design, according to many people, looks decent enough. It may not be as aggressive as the Tata iCNG. However, it is still modern and bold and has a bigger street presence. On the inside, the Tata Nexon will be the better of the two models.

Safety Features and Technology

Tata Nexon iCNG

As for the features and technology of the Nexon iCNG, it is expected to come with an advanced ECU. This will enhance system control with features such as automatic fuel switching, direct CNG start, and leak detection.

Safety features will include a micro-switch for automatic engine shut-off during refueling, leak-proof materials, and thermal incident protection. Apart from the CNG safety features, the Tata Nexon ICE and EV variants are 5-star safety rated and come equipped with a host of safety features.

Maruti Brezza CNG

On the other hand, the Brezza CNG is offered with a ton of features including dual front airbags, rear parking sensors, and hill-hold assist. The higher spec variants come with features such as 6 airbags (Driver, Front Passenger, 2 Curtain, Driver Side, Front Passenger Side) and seat belt warning.

It also comes with child lock anchor points for a child seat, overspeed warning, speed-sensing door lock, anti-theft engine immobilizer, and middle rear three-point seatbelt.

Our thoughts

If safety was our major concern, most likely we’d go with the Tata Nexon iCNG as it is based on the already 5-star safety-rated Nexon. The Brezza, however, also features a ton of safety features and technology.

Pricing

Tata Nexon iCNG

At the moment, the exact pricing of the Nexon iCNG has yet to be announced. However, many believe that Tata Motors will be aiming for a very competitive pricing strategy. The Nexon iCNG will offer a manual gearbox option. Although it is uncertain if an AMT version will be available.

Maruti Brezza CNG

Currently, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG is priced between Rs 9.29 lakh and Rs 12.25 lakh, depending on the variant. The Brezza so far has been one of the favorite sub-compact SUVs with the CNG kit.

Our take

If Tata Motors manages to price the Nexon iCNG at a good enough price tag, most likely it will be able to take away the market share held by the Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG in India.