Tata Nexon iCNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG: Which One To Buy?

With petrol and diesel prices skyrocketing, car buyers are increasingly seeking fuel-efficient options. Maruti Suzuki has always dominated the CNG segment but Tata Motors recently entered the sub-compact CNG car space with the launch of Nexon iCNG. Nexon’s main competition is the Maruti Brezza, which also has a CNG variant. But which one of these makes more sense to buy? Let’s take a look at how the Tata Nexon iCNG and Maruti Brezza S-CNG compare on paper.

Powertrain

• Tata Nexon iCNG: Equipped with a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, producing 100 bhp and 170 Nm of torque. However, in CNG mode, power output will be lower to balance performance with fuel efficiency. The SUV also includes a six-speed manual transmission, and the company has focused on smooth power delivery, and Nexon’s turbocharged setup may offer better drivability compared to conventional CNG engines. 

  Furthermore, like other Tata CNG cars, the Nexon iCNG also offers twin-cylinder CNG tech, which gives you boot space of 321 litres as well while delivering a fuel efficiency of 24km/kg.

• Maruti Brezza CNG: Powered by Maruti’s tried and tested 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, K-series engine, delivering 87 bhp and 121.5 Nm in CNG mode with a fuel efficiency of 25.51 km/kg. While it offers reliable performance and impressive fuel efficiency, it’s naturally aspirated, which may not deliver the same level of thrill as a turbocharged unit. 

Features

• Tata Nexon iCNG: Tata has focused on premium interiors, with a feature-rich cabin that includes a large 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, PM 2.5 air filter, front ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera, rain sensing wipers, and LED DRLs with welcome and goodbye animation. 
• Maruti Brezza CNG: The Brezza also boasts a spacious interior with Maruti’s SmartPlay Pro 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, an anti-lock braking system, heads-up display (HUD), and all four power windows.

Safety Features

• Tata Nexon iCNG: Tata Nexon iCNG comes with the safest CNG packing and rear crash protection because of its fortified cabin. Apart from this, Nexon’s 5-star Global NCAP rating and safety features like 6 airbags as standard, 360-degree surround, hill-hold control, electronic stability control, camera with BVM, CNG leakage protection, fire protection device, thermal incident protection and rain-sensing wipers, makes it a compelling choice.
• Maruti Brezza CNG: This one offer safety features such as electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, up to six airbags, rear parking sensor and seat belt reminders for all passengers. While the Brezza also includes features like a 360-degree camera and cruise control, it has a lower safety rating compared to the Nexon.

Price

• Tata Nexon iCNG: Starts at Rs. 8.99 lakh, topping at Rs. 14.59 lakh.
• Maruti Brezza CNG: Ranges from Rs. 9.29 lakh to Rs. 12.26 lakh.

Verdict

Choosing between these two compelling SUVs can be quite challenging.  The Tata Nexon iCNG stands out for its performance, features and safety, while the Maruti Brezza CNG is the go-to choice for its unmatched fuel efficiency. I believe if you are someone looking for a feature-packed, powerful CNG SUV, the Tata Nexon iCNG stands out with its turbocharged engine, advanced tech, and spacious design. On the other hand, if affordability and fuel efficiency are your priorities, the Maruti Brezza CNG will be a practical choice.

Utkarsh Agarwal

BW Reporters The author is the Editorial Lead of BW Auto World