While turbo-petrol engines are becoming increasingly popular in the compact SUV segment, naturally aspirated (NA) petrol-powered vehicles continue to enjoy strong demand. The Hyundai Venue and Maruti Suzuki Brezza are two of the most popular SUVs in this category, both offering naturally aspirated petrol engines paired with a manual gearbox. This raises an important question: which of these two SUVs offers superior performance?
To find the answer, both models underwent comprehensive performance testing, comparing their acceleration and in-gear performance under real-world driving conditions.
Engine, Specifications and Pricing
Looking at the technical specifications, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza holds a clear advantage thanks to its larger 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The unit is approximately 25 percent larger than the Venue’s 1.2-litre engine. The Brezza produces 103hp and 139Nm of torque, while the Venue delivers 83hp and 115Nm.
Although the Brezza weighs 63kg more than the Venue, its stronger power and torque figures give it superior power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios, which directly translate into better performance.
When it comes to pricing, however, the Hyundai Venue emerges as the more affordable option. Its naturally aspirated petrol variants start around Rs 26,000 lower than the Brezza, with the price difference widening to nearly Rs 62,000 for higher-spec variants. This is primarily due to the Venue’s smaller engine qualifying for a lower GST bracket, whereas the Brezza’s 1.5-litre engine attracts a higher tax rate.
0-100kph Acceleration Test
The Venue gets off the line slightly quicker, reaching 10kph just 0.03 seconds ahead of the Brezza. However, the tables turn soon after.
The Maruti Brezza steadily builds its lead as speeds increase. By the time both SUVs reach 50kph, the Brezza is already almost a second ahead. The gap becomes even more significant at 100kph, where the Brezza completes the sprint in just 12.68 seconds, compared to the Venue’s 15.35 seconds.
The results clearly show that the Brezza’s more powerful engine easily compensates for its additional weight and delivers stronger acceleration performance.
Rolling Acceleration: Which SUV Performs Better?
The Brezza continued to dominate in rolling acceleration tests, which are designed to simulate real-world situations such as overtaking and highway driving.
In the 20-80kph third-gear acceleration test, the Brezza was 0.49 seconds quicker than the Venue. The difference became even more noticeable in the 40-100kph fourth-gear test, where the Brezza finished 3.06 seconds ahead.
These figures demonstrate the Brezza’s stronger mid-range performance, allowing for quicker overtakes with fewer gear changes.
Verdict: Which SUV Is Faster?
If your priority is outright performance and quicker acceleration, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza is the clear winner. Its larger engine, higher power output and stronger torque figures help it outperform the Venue in both standing-start and rolling acceleration tests.
The Hyundai Venue, on the other hand, remains an attractive option for value-conscious buyers thanks to its lower purchase price and more tax-friendly engine. However, when judged purely on performance, the Brezza comfortably comes out on top.
Autocar India Testing Methodology
All performance tests are conducted in controlled and standardized conditions. Before testing, tyre pressures are adjusted according to manufacturer recommendations, and the vehicle is fully fuelled or charged. Tests are carried out with two occupants on board, while all performance data is recorded using highly accurate GPS-based timing equipment to ensure reliable and consistent results.