Maruti Suzuki Brezza: When the original Vitara Brezza stormed onto Indian roads in 2016, it revolutionized the compact SUV segment with its perfect blend of practicality, affordability, and that crucial SUV stance Indian buyers craved.
Six years and over 750,000 units later, Maruti Suzuki dropped the “Vitara” prefix and introduced a comprehensively reimagined Brezza that aims to elevate the nameplate from merely practical to genuinely desirable.
This second-generation model arrives at a critical juncture – the sub-4 meter SUV battlefield has become exponentially more competitive, with rivals offering increasingly sophisticated features and designs.
Has Maruti done enough to maintain the Brezza’s position as the segment’s benchmark? Let’s dive deep into what makes this new iteration tick.
Design Evolution: From Functional to Fashionable
The original Brezza prioritized function over form with its boxy, utilitarian aesthetics. The new model, however, embraces a more contemporary design language while maintaining the proportions that Indian buyers find so appealing.
Up front, the flat-nosed design features a more prominent grille with gunmetal gray inserts flanked by sleeker dual LED projector headlamps with crystal-like LED DRLs. These elements combine to create a more assertive face that commands attention without appearing overwrought.
The profile maintains the distinctive SUV silhouette that fueled the original’s success, but introduces more sophisticated character lines and 16-inch precision-cut alloy wheels.
that elevate the visual appeal. The floating roof design with standard dual-tone color options adds a premium touch previously missing from the lineup.
Perhaps most transformative is the rear treatment, where connected LED tail lamps create a distinctive light signature, while the reprofiled bumper and faux skid plate emphasize the vehicle’s SUV credentials.
The increased use of chrome accents throughout the exterior signals Maruti’s intention to position this version as a more upmarket offering.
Cabin Revolution: Space Meets Sophistication
Step inside, and the improvements become even more apparent. The dashboard adopts a layered design with premium materials replacing the utilitarian plastics of the outgoing model.
The freestanding 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system serves as the cabin’s centerpiece, bringing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity along with a suite of connected car features through Suzuki Connect.
The flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with comprehensive controls adds a sporty touch, while the heads-up display (a segment-first feature) reduces the need to glance away from the road.
The redesigned instrument cluster featuring a larger 4.2-inch color multi-information display provides essential vehicle information in an easily digestible format.
Comfort receives special attention with ventilated front seats (another segment-first feature), auto-dimming IRVM, and a wireless charging pad with built-in cooling to prevent device overheating during extended use.
Rear passengers benefit from increased knee room, a rear AC vent, and a Type-C USB charging port – thoughtful additions that enhance the everyday ownership experience.
Most impressive is the electric sunroof – a feature once considered exclusive to premium vehicles but now essential for success in this hotly contested segment.
Its inclusion demonstrates Maruti’s recognition that modern compact SUV buyers expect luxury touches even at accessible price points.
Powertrain: Refined Performance Meets Practical Efficiency
Under the hood, the Brezza receives Maruti’s latest K15C DualJet petrol engine with smart hybrid technology. This 1.5-liter, four-cylinder unit develops 103 PS (101 bhp) at 6,000 rpm and 137 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm – modest figures on paper, but perfectly calibrated for Indian driving conditions.
The real story is how this engine delivers its performance. The DualJet technology with dual VVT and integrated starter generator creates a power delivery that feels more substantial than the numbers suggest.
particularly in the mid-range where most urban driving occurs. The engine responds eagerly to throttle inputs below 3,500 rpm, making city driving effortless without constant gear changes.
Transmission options include a refined 5-speed manual and a new 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters, replacing the previous generation’s dated 4-speed unit.
The additional ratios significantly improve highway cruising refinement, with engine speeds remaining comfortably below 2,500 rpm at 100 km/h.
Fuel efficiency remains impressive despite increasingly stringent emission regulations. The manual variants deliver approximately 19.8 km/l.
while the automatic manages a respectable 19.1 km/l under testing conditions – figures that translate to excellent real-world economy that budget-conscious Indian buyers appreciate.
Dynamics: Balancing Comfort with Confidence
The Brezza rides on Maruti’s HEARTECT platform, known for its lightweight construction and structural rigidity. The suspension setup – MacPherson struts up front and torsion beam at the rear – strikes an impressive balance between ride comfort and handling stability.
Compared to the outgoing model, the new Brezza exhibits noticeably improved high-speed stability and reduced body roll during cornering. The well-weighted steering provides adequate feedback while remaining light enough for easy maneuverability in congested urban environments.
Ground clearance of 198mm ensures confidence when tackling broken roads or unexpected obstacles – a genuine benefit in Indian driving conditions where road quality remains unpredictable.
The braking system featuring disc brakes up front and drums at the rear provides reliable stopping power, though all-wheel disc brakes would have been welcome at this price point.
Safety: Finally Addressing the Achilles’ Heel
Maruti Suzuki has often faced criticism regarding safety features, but the new Brezza directly addresses these concerns with a comprehensive safety package.
The model comes equipped with six airbags, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), hill-hold assist, and ISOFIX child seat anchors across variants.
The 360-degree camera system with unique display modes assists during parking maneuvers, while the tire pressure monitoring system provides peace of mind during long journeys.
Most importantly, the underlying structure has been engineered to meet the latest safety regulations, earning a respectable safety rating under assessment protocols.
Market Positioning: Evolution Without Revolution
The new Brezza continues Maruti’s tradition of offering multiple variants to address various budget considerations. The lineup spans from the entry-level LXi to the fully-loaded ZXi+ Dual-Tone Automatic, creating a price range that makes the model accessible to a wide customer base.
While pricing has increased compared to the outgoing model, the value proposition remains strong when considering the significant improvements in design, features, and overall refinement.
The Brezza competes directly with the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, and Nissan Magnite – a fiercely competitive set that keeps innovation flowing in this segment.
Verdict: Calculated Evolution Meets Market Expectations
The new Maruti Suzuki Brezza represents a carefully calibrated evolution rather than a revolutionary leap. It addresses the predecessor’s shortcomings while building on the fundamental strengths that made the original so successful – practicality, efficiency, and value.
While some competitors may offer more powerful engines or marginally better feature sets in specific areas, the Brezza delivers a comprehensively balanced package without significant weaknesses.
Combined with Maruti’s unparalleled service network and strong resale values, it creates a compelling ownership proposition that extends beyond the vehicle itself.
For buyers seeking a well-rounded compact SUV that excels in everyday usability while offering enough modern features to remain relevant, the new Brezza makes a strong case for itself.
It may not be the most exciting option in the segment, but it remains one of the most sensible – exactly the quality that established the nameplate as a segment leader in the first place.