Tata Nexon Facelift vs Maruti Suzuki Brezza: Who should buy what?

The recent introduction of the second facelift for the Tata Nexon has shaken up the compact SUV category. It comes with significant updates to its styling, new transmission options, and a best-in-class feature list. This has once again made it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment, which is currently led by its arch-rival, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza. Both the Nexon and Brezza have established themselves as trustworthy, spacious, and practical compact SUVs over the years. However, the recent updates to the Tata Nexon warrant a fresh comparison with the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, as outlined below:

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If you want good mileage on petrol

Choose the Maruti Suzuki Brezza. While the Tata Nexon’s 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine boasts better performance on paper, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza’s 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine offers better real-world fuel efficiency. Maruti Suzuki claims a maximum fuel efficiency figure of 17.38 kmpl for the manual transmission and 19.8 kmpl for the automatic transmission. The automatic variants also feature a mild-hybrid system for an additional boost in efficiency.

If you want a safer car

Opt for the Tata Nexon. The first-generation Tata Nexon achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first made-in-India car to earn a commendable five-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests. The new second facelift for the Tata Nexon is likely to maintain the same structural strength, continuing its legacy as one of the safest cars in the Indian market.

If you want segment-best features

Choose the Tata Nexon. Both the Tata Nexon and Maruti Suzuki Brezza are well-equipped with modern comfort and convenience features like a sunroof, wireless charger, 360-degree parking camera, and large touchscreen infotainment systems. However, the Nexon surpasses the Brezza with additional segment-best features like a full-TFT instrument console with smartphone connectivity, standard six airbags across all variants, ventilated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, and more. The Brezza offers a head-up display as the only feature advantage over the Nexon.

If you want a diesel car

Go for the Tata Nexon. In 2020, Maruti Suzuki discontinued diesel engine options, making all its offerings, including the Brezza, petrol-only models. The Tata Nexon, on the other hand, offers a choice of a 1.5-liter diesel engine, which is ideal for its higher fuel efficiency and long-distance capabilities.

If you want a fun-to-drive car

Choose the Tata Nexon petrol-DCT. The Tata Nexon offers two optional automatic transmission choices, a 6-speed AMT and a 7-speed DCT. The latter provides a smoother and more responsive operation, with quick-shifting patterns that feel superior to the 6-speed torque converter offered in the Maruti Suzuki Brezza.

If you want an electric car

Go for the Tata Nexon. Tata offers an electric version of the compact SUV, in addition to the petrol and diesel variants. The Tata Nexon EV provides the convenience, economy, and refinement of an all-electric powertrain, while the Maruti Suzuki Brezza does not come in an all-electric version.

If you want great service and bomb-proof reliability

Opt for the Maruti Suzuki Brezza. While the Tata Nexon has significantly evolved, Tata Motors lags behind Maruti Suzuki in terms of after-sales service experience and quality. With a superior service network and better service quality, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza is a more reliable and peace-of-mind option for long-term ownership.

If you want CNG with an automatic

Choose the Maruti Suzuki Brezza. Although the Maruti Suzuki Brezza doesn’t offer a diesel engine like the Tata Nexon, it provides a CNG powertrain option for those seeking fuel efficiency during long-distance journeys. What sets it apart is that it’s the only vehicle in India offering an automatic transmission with the CNG powertrain.

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