India’s compact SUV market is now dominated by CNG-powered models as buyers look for lower running costs without sacrificing comfort. Two of the biggest rivals in this segment are the Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG and the Tata Nexon iCNG. Both SUVs promise strong fuel economy, practical features, and affordable daily commuting.
But when it comes to real-world mileage, which one actually delivers better efficiency on Indian roads? Here’s a detailed comparison based on highway and city driving tests, owner feedback, and road-test reports.
Maruti Brezza CNG vs Tata Nexon CNG: Engine Comparison
The Brezza CNG comes with a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol-CNG engine, while the Nexon iCNG gets a smaller but turbocharged 1.2-litre engine. Tata’s SUV is the only turbocharged CNG compact SUV in India right now.
| Feature | Maruti Brezza CNG | Tata Nexon CNG |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Petrol-CNG | 1.2L Turbo Petrol-CNG |
| Power in CNG Mode | 88 hp | 74 hp |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Gearbox | 5-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Manual |
| Claimed Mileage | 25.5 km/kg | 24 km/kg |
| CNG Tank | 55L | 60L Twin Cylinder |
The Nexon clearly offers more torque and stronger performance, while the Brezza focuses more on smooth efficiency and lower fuel consumption.
Real World CNG Mileage Test Results
According to recent road tests by Autocar India, the Brezza CNG outperformed the Nexon CNG in overall fuel efficiency.
City Mileage
- Maruti Brezza CNG: Around 24-26 km/kg
- Tata Nexon CNG: Around 17-20 km/kg
In stop-and-go traffic, the Brezza gains a major advantage because of its lighter body weight and naturally aspirated engine setup.
Highway Mileage
- Maruti Brezza CNG: Around 28 km/kg
- Tata Nexon CNG: Around 24-26 km/kg
On highways, the gap becomes smaller because the Nexon’s turbocharged engine performs better at steady speeds.
Why Brezza Delivers Better Mileage
The Brezza’s higher real-world mileage mainly comes from:
- Lighter kerb weight
- Simpler naturally aspirated engine
- Maruti’s refined CNG tuning
- Lower stress on engine during city driving
Reports suggest the Nexon iCNG is nearly 120 kg heavier because of the twin-cylinder setup and additional reinforcement, which impacts city efficiency.
Tata Nexon CNG Has One Big Advantage
Even though the Brezza wins in mileage, the Nexon offers better practicality and driving feel in some areas.
Twin-Cylinder Technology
The Nexon iCNG uses Tata’s dual-cylinder setup, which frees up more luggage space compared to the Brezza’s traditional single-cylinder design.
Turbocharged Performance
The Nexon feels more powerful on highways and overtakes more confidently thanks to its turbo engine. Many users say it drives more like a petrol SUV than a typical CNG vehicle.
Running Cost Comparison
Using average CNG prices in India, the Brezza can significantly reduce monthly fuel bills.
| SUV | Approx Running Cost |
|---|---|
| Brezza CNG | ₹3-3.5 per km |
| Nexon CNG | ₹4-4.5 per km |
For buyers driving more than 1,500 km monthly, the savings difference becomes noticeable over time.
Features and Comfort Comparison
Maruti Brezza CNG
- Better mileage
- Lower maintenance cost
- Reliable service network
- Smooth city driving
- Better resale value
Tata Nexon CNG
- Better safety package
- More premium interior
- Larger usable boot space
- Strong highway performance
- Turbocharged driving experience
Which CNG SUV Should You Buy?
If your priority is maximum mileage, lower maintenance, and cheaper running costs, the Maruti Brezza CNG is clearly the better choice. It consistently delivers stronger real-world fuel efficiency and is ideal for daily city commuting.
However, if you want stronger performance, better highway driving feel, and more practical boot space, the Tata Nexon iCNG becomes a more premium alternative despite slightly lower mileage.
For buyers focused on saving money every month, the Brezza remains the mileage king of the compact SUV CNG segment in 2026.
Conclusion
The Maruti Brezza CNG and Tata Nexon iCNG are both strong contenders in India’s growing CNG SUV market. Real-world tests show that the Brezza leads comfortably in fuel efficiency, especially in city driving conditions. Meanwhile, the Nexon counters with turbo performance, safety, and better practicality.
In simple terms:
- Choose Brezza CNG for mileage and low ownership cost
- Choose Nexon CNG for performance and premium feel
As fuel prices continue to rise, both SUVs offer an attractive balance between affordability and practicality for Indian families.