Crossover Battle Of Compact SUVs – Maruti Vitara Brezza vs S-Cross – Which Makes More Sense?

The appeal of the compact SUV in India is fuelled by new and fresh models launched every year, cars with advanced features and stylish designs. The Indian driver also aspires to have a large vehicle which is a status symbol. Added advantages in this segment include a high driving position and enough ground clearance to tackle all sorts of road conditions. The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs S-Cross are the main contenders in the compact SUV segment, as expected from the country's best-selling car manufacturer.

The Maruti Suzuki siblings have strong competition from the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, and Hyundai Creta. There is also the Toyota Urban Cruiser, based on the Vitara Brezza, but offers a slightly more premium package in terms of interiors and features.

This article will explore the Maruti S-Cross vs Brezza review concerning the engine, specifications, ride and handling and exterior design.

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Vitara Brezza vs S-Cross – Engine specifications

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza is equipped with a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a maximum power output of 103 bhp @ 6,000 rpm and 136.8 Nm of torque. Transmission options for the Brezza are a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. Stop-and-go traffic is a breeze for this compact SUV given the low-end torque and strong power characteristics at low rpm. The engine and transmission have been specially tuned for city driving at low speeds. An unrestrained engine indeed, the Vitara Brezza’s power plant is smooth and refined.

The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross is powered by the same 1.5-litre petrol engine as the Brezza; however, it is tuned to provide more mid-range power. It develops 103 bhp @ 6,000 rpm and 138 Nm of torque @ 4,000 rpm. This same engine can also be found on the Ertiga, XL6 and Ciaz. Gearbox options include a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission. There is a mild hybrid version available known by Suzuki as the SHVS system. This hybrid unit is equipped with an integrated starter generator/Lithium-Ion battery and a brake regeneration mechanism.

Both engines are silent at idle with few vibrations transferred to the cabin. The S-Cross has a noticeably soft clutch leading to slick and smooth gear shifts. The Brezza and the S-Cross can drive around the city all day with no complaints. However, the drive would be even more pleasant if there was more mid-range grunt. The power unit also tends to start growling as you move into higher rpm, which sound sporty but could annoy some drivers who prefer a refined composure from their cars.

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Vitara Brezza and S-Cross comparison – Styling and interior

The new Brezza has a smart front grille, integrated bumpers and headlamps that offer a sleek fascia. LED projector headlamps surrounded by LED DRLs lend a modern touch to the Brezza. The bumper houses fog lamps and a faux skid plate underneath which add a rugged styling. Its 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels provide a tall riding stance while blacked-out A, B and C pillars give the SUV a floating roof look. The Brezza is a muscular car with a high rear-end, housing wrap-around LED lights.

On the inside, the Brezza features a dual-tone upholstery theme and it seems that the cabin was well thought out. It certainly looks and feels premium enough. There is a large floating 9-inch infotainment touchscreen on the centre console, which one would say is quite similar to the Baleno. Maruti is known for having a no-nonsense approach and this is definitely the case with the Brezza. Fit and finish are on par with the rest of the compact SUVs in this segment.

The S-Cross gets sporty cross-over styling with a chrome slated grille that takes up most of the front end. Headlamps are large and dominating and you will find plastic cladding all around the exterior. Perhaps Maruti Suzuki intended the design to be inclined towards an offroad theme. It sits on large 16-inch alloy wheels and has a smart, mature look from all angles.

The cabin of the S-Cross is inviting and comfortable. Ergonomic seats offer plenty of support while the spacious interior is well laid out for the driver and passengers. A wide windscreen provides excellent visibility, giving the driver the feel of a much larger car. You can find soft-touch materials and numerous storage spaces for cup holders/water bottles. The integrated infotainment system could do with a modern upgrade.

Also Read : Why Maruti Suzuki is Set To Hike Prices?

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs S-Cross – Ride and handling

The S-Cross offers a firm ride with bumps and jerks felt in the cabin at slow speeds. Although not completely uncomfortable, passengers would prefer a softer, plusher ride. At higher speeds, the S-Cross seems to push everything out of its way. You could say that it is well suited to the highways with good feedback from the steering. One thing is for certain, you will feel safe and secure with the S-Cross.

The Brezza has a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel that is quick and responsive to input. Light controls offer good driving characteristics which adjust well at highway speeds. The suspension is well-weighted and tuned to handle Brezza’s dimensions. Potholes and broken tarmac are easily flattened out with the car remaining stable and planted. The compact SUV has large ground clearance too, which is an advantage in Indian road conditions that are never smooth.

Also checkout Upcoming Cars By Maruti Suzuki India

Maruti Vitara Brezza vs S-Cross – Comparison of engine, specifications and features

The prices for the Vitara Brezza start from Rs.7.99 lakh (average ex-showroom) for the LXi Petrol variant while the S-Cross costs Rs.872 lakh (average ex-showroom) for the Sigma Petrol version. Both compact SUVs share the same K15 Smart Hybrid Petrol Engine. There are no diesel engine options on offer for either model.

	Maruti Suzuki Brezza	Maruti Suzuki S-Cross
Engine	1462 cc, 4 cylinders	1462 cc, 4 cylinders
Engine Model	K15C Hybrid	K15B Hybrid
Fuel	Petrol	Petrol
Max power (bhp @ rpm)	102 bhp @ 6,000 rpm	103 bhp @ 6,000 rpm
Max Torque (Nm @ rpm)	136.8 Nm @ 4,400 rpm	138 Nm @ 4,400 rpm
Fuel Economy	20.1 kmpl	18.5 kmpl
Drivetrain	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive
Transmission	5 Speed manual	5-speed manual
Length	3995 mm	4300 mm
Width	1790 mm	1785 mm
Wheelbase	2500 mm	2600 mm
Ground Clearance	-	180 mm
Kerb weight	-	1130 kg
Boot space (litres)	328 litres	353 litres
Fuel Tank Capacity (litres)	48 litres	48 litres
Suspension	MacPherson Struts and Coil Springs / Torsion Beam (rear)	MacPherson Strut and Coil Springs / Torsion Beam (rear)
Brakes (front)	Ventilated Disc	Ventilated Disc
Brakes (rear)	Drum	Disc
Steering	Electric Power Steering	Electric Power Steering
Front Tyres	215 / 60 R16	215 / 60 R16
Rear Tyres	215 / 60 R16	215 / 60 R16
Overspeed Warning	Yes	Yes
NCAP	-	-
Airbags	2 airbags (driver + passenger)	2 airbags (driver + passenger)
Hill Assist	Yes	No
Electronic Brake Force Distribution	Yes	Yes
Seat Belt Warning	Yes	Yes
Electronic Stability Program	Yes	Yes
Speed Sensing Door Locks	Yes	Yes
Park Assist	No	No
Child Seat Anchor Points	Yes	Yes
Anti-Lock Braking System ABS	Yes	Yes
Brake Assist	Yes	Yes
Air Conditioning	Manual -Single Zone	Manual – Single Zone
Rear Ac Vents	Yes	No
Steering Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt
12 Volt Power Outlets	Yes	Yes – 2 outlets
Drivers Seat	8-way manually adjustable	6-way manually adjustable
Adjustable Front Passenger Seat	Yes	Yes
Rear Seat Adjustment	Yes	Yes
Foldable Rear Seats	Full	Full
Roof Mounted Antenna	Yes	Yes
Headlights	Halogen	Halogen Projector
Cabin Lamps	Front + Rear	Front + Rear
Instrument Cluster	Analogue	Analogue + Digital
Distance To Empty Indicator	No	Yes
Shift Indicator	Yes	No
Smart Connectivity Infotainment	No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto	No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Battery Warranty	N.A.	No
Warranty (years)	2 Years	2 Years
Warranty (kilometers)	40,000	40,000

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Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza – The pros and cons of this compact SUV

The Brezza is known as the urban SUV as it is perfectly suited to city life. It has high-end features and a comfortable ride thanks to the excellent suspension. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of the Maruti Suzuki Brezza.

Pros

• A large cabin with plenty of storage space all around makes this a convenient interior
• Advanced features make the Brezza a thoroughly modern offering
• True SUV feel with high ground clearance and massive road presence
• The seating position is high which gives the driver and passengers a good view of the road
• Vitara Brezza has good brand value and trust in the market      
• The Brezza has light steering controls and is nimble through traffic
• Compact dimensions are well suited to urban settings and narrow lanes
• Maruti Suzuki offers an extensive service network and after-sales products
• This compact SUV is reliable and easy to maintain

Cons

• Slow-speed ride quality can get discomforting although it copes well at regular speed. Does not absorb bumps in the road very easily
• The engine could do with some more mid-range power. It pulls well from a standstill but leaves the driver wanting for more as the revs climb
• High-spec variants are expensive for an SUV in this segment. You will be better off with the lower variants however, you will miss out on some features

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Maruti Suzuki S-Cross – Likes and Dislikes of this crossover SUV

The Maruti S-Cross has desirable cross-over styling combined with SUV-like dimensions and a strong power plant. Although it shares basically the same engine as the Brezza, the S-Cross is tuned to offer a little more mid-range torque. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross.

Pros

• More spacious than the Maruti Suzuki Brezza due to an extended wheelbase and added length. Seats are well appointed and offer good legroom, while headroom is more than sufficient for tall passengers
• The engine is a perfect blend of performance and efficiency. Smart Hybrid technology offers good torque making the S-Cross easy to drive in the city
• Transmission is smooth and slick, providing effortless driving characteristics
• The suspension is tuned well to soak up uneven roads and undulations. Passengers will be pleased with the good ride and handling due to the stiff yet supple springs. Drivers can expect excellent dynamics through the twisty tracks

Cons

• The S-Cross lacks typical SUV dimensions which many drivers look forward to in this segment. The crossover styling makes it look like a large station wagon more than an SUV
• Some features are missing from the S-Cross option list. It lacks an electric sunroof, ventilated seats, rear Ac vents, 6 airbags and wireless charging. A glance at Hyundai Venue or Kia Sonet will tell you what you are missing in terms of features
• The 4-speed automatic falls behind the advanced DCT and Torque Converters of other manufacturers. It’s great for city driving but can get tiring on the highway.
• BS6 norms have forced Maruti Suzuki to discontinue the diesel engine option which was a favourite among many drivers.

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Conclusion

The Brezza has been a best seller ever since it was launched and little has changed with this new generation. The new design brings a much-needed facelift to the exterior and cabin, with a host of features to add to the comfort of occupants. Coupled with a smooth engine and good handling, the Brezza is one of the best compact SUVs you can buy as a daily driver. If Maruti had priced the Brezza more competitively, it would have a stronger footing in the market as compared to value-for-money offerings from Hyundai and Tata. Another advantage other manufacturers like Mahindra have is a diesel powertrain option to cater to high mileage requirements.

The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross has solid build quality and desirable driving dynamics, combined with a refined engine. The S-Cross makes sense for those looking for a spacious cross-over vehicle with a spacious interior and compact dimensions. The mild hybrid system increases fuel economy making the deal even sweeter for those looking for low running costs. You can be assured of hassle-free ownership and convenient city commuting with the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross.

The Vitara Brezza vs S-Cross are viable alternatives to the Hyundai Creta, Nissan Kicks and Kia Seltos. As always, you can’t go wrong with Maruti with its wide service network, reliability and easy availability of spares. There are rumours that a new S-Cross is soon to be launched, but until then we seem to be pretty happy with the current S-Cross on our roads today. Check out some of Carorbis Blog’s interesting articles like Flying Cars in India and Cheapest Automatic Cars in India or visit Carorbis Blog for more.