Now the compact SUV category is quite competitive in India, and availability of a costlier and affordable segment compels buyers to take a call between the Tata Nexon and the Maruti Suzuki Brezza. Both have their points of presence on the road and have their pros and cons. But in a close budget scenario, it all matters more, the right base version becomes of even greater importance because every feature, every kilometre of mileage and every rupee of the price matters more.
Instead of making overall comparisons, here we will be taking a closer look at the two base variants of the Tata Nexon base model called Smart and the Maruti Suzuki Brezza base model called LXi. We will assess these two in the most important aspects to a real test buyer, such as engine, performance, mileage and price. So, let’s just go over the base models of the two SUVs and see which one has more to offer you and which one better utilises your money.
Tata Nexon Smart vs Maruti Brezza LXi – Comparison of Features
On features, both the Tata Nexon Smart and Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXI have a fairly decent package in base and do offer some differences in terms of features alone. The Nexon Smart is equipped with various vital safety features, including six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-hold assist, ISOFIX child-seat mounts and rear parking sensors. It also receives LED headlamps, LED DRLs, LED tail lights, and a complete digital instrument panel and multiple drive modes like Eco, City and Sport. The base Nexon doesn’t have access to some consumer comforts like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, electrically adjustable ORVMs, rear power windows and keyless entry.
Other standard features in the Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXI include six airbags, ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill Hold Assist (HHA), ISOFIX mounts and rear parking sensors. Convenience features such as front and rear power windows, keyless entry and rear AC vents and electrically adjustable ORVMs are available in the Brezza LXi. Like the Nexon, the Brezza LXi does not offer a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or cruise control in its base trim.
In terms of conveniences in everyday use, the Brezza LXi takes the edge, though the Nexon Smart does better with LED lighting, a full digital instrument cluster and selectable drive modes. The Brezza provides a more practical laundry load of convenience for buyers that intend to buy a base model SUV and drive it primarily for family and city lanes, while the Nexon comes across as being more feature-laden from the driver’s standpoint.
Tata Nexon Smart vs Maruti Brezza LXi : Engine and Performance Comparison.
The engine comparison becomes intriguing for the latest 2026 models, as the new Maruti Suzuki Brezza is now powered by the 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol in the LXi variant of the model. That implies the base Brezza has been upgraded compared to just the previous 1.5-litre version of the naturally aspirated engine. The Nexon Smart carries forward Tata’s 1.2 litre turbo-petrol engine, which clearly provides an edge in the areas of torque.
The Tata Nexon Smart is powered by a 3-cylinder, 1.2-litre, turbo-petrol engine, which is claimed to generate 120 PS and 170 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission in the base Smart. For overtaking on the highway and city driving, Nexon delivers the strong torque of 170 Nm from as early as 1,750 rpm.
Meanwhile, the new version of the 1-litre turbo-petrol Boosterjet engine, whose output is around 110 PS and 170 Nm, is equipped in the 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXI. The new turbo Brezza, compared to the Nexon’s 5-speed manual, also features a 6-speed manual transmission, making highway cruising easier. Another advantage of the turbo engine is that it provides peak torque between approximately 2,000 and 3,500 rpm, making the Brezza solid in the mid-range of its engine speed spectrum.
Performance Verdict
Tata Nexon Smart is a better option if you’re more concerned about outright performance or increased power output and acceleration. Brezza LXi’s 6-speed manual is a solid choice for those who focus on highway cruising, gearbox flexibility and a potentially more relaxed engine at higher speeds.
Tata Nexon Smart vs Maruti Brezza LXi: Mileage Comparison
As regards the mileage, the 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi is definitely better than Tata Nexon Smart. According to the ARAI, the Nexon Smart that comes with a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers a mileage of 17.44 km/l in manual transmission.
In contrast to the Nexon Smart, the new Brezza LXi will also be offered with two petrol engines compared to it. The 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol LXi MT delivers a mileage of 20.47 kmpl, and the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated LXi MT delivers a mileage of 21.09 kmpl. This results in the Brezza having a claimed mileage advantage of around 3-4 km/l over the Nexon – depending on the engine used.
Mileage Verdict
If fuel economy is your first choice, then it’s definitely the Maruti Brezza Lxi. The 1.5-litre petrol engine has the highest claimed mileage of 21.09 kmpl, while the new 1.0-litre turbo-powered LXi even manages 20.47 kmpl. The claimed value for the Nexon Smart is marginally lower at 17.44 km/l but can be improved substantially by relaxed driving.
Tata Nexon Smart vs Maruti Brezza LXI: Price Comparison
As far as cost is concerned, the Tata Nexon Smart and the Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXI are neck and neck. The Tata Nexon Smart is currently priced at around ₹7.40 lakh ex-showroom, and the 2026 Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi is priced at around ₹7.40 lakh ex-showroom. At present, Tata has listed out the price for the Nexon Smart (1.2-litre petrol) on its official website at ₹7.36 lakh. Market listing updates indicate that the actual price is at ₹7.40 lakh.
In certain combinations, the price of the Brezza LXi MT ends at ₹8.25 lakh, officially listed on Maruti Suzuki’s current value page, which is for the 1.5-litre petrol version of the Brezza. The launch of the new 2026 model of Brezza LXI Turbo, however, saw its entry-level figure at about ₹7.40 lakh, ensuring that the turbo version can be directly compared to the Nexon Smart.
Which Car Should You Buy: Tata Nexon Smart vs Maruti Brezza LXi
For high performance, greater power and a more enjoyable driving experience, the Tata Nexon Smart is more suitable. It offers an advantage in terms of straight-outway performance, sporting a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers 120 PS and 170 Nm. The Nexon will also appeal to anyone who frequently drives on the highway or those seeking a more impressive-sounding SUV.
The other side of the coin is that those who prioritise mileage, pragmatic design and reduced running costs will go with the Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi. It offers a more promising mileage, which can lead to greater savings in fuel cost, and Maruti’s extensive service network is also a plus point for people who want to buy the product for long-term use.
