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HomeCar GuideWhat Is Kerb Weight And Gross Weight In Cars

Published : 08 August 2026

Read Time : 5 min

When comparing cars or reading their specifications, you have probably come across terms such as kerb weight and gross vehicle weight (GVW). While both refer to the weight of a vehicle, they measure completely different things.

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Kerb Weight Vs Gross Vehicle Weight

Understanding the difference between kerb weight vs gross vehicle weight is important because it tells you how heavy a vehicle is before loading it and how much weight it can safely carry.

In this Car Guide, we’ll explain the difference between gross weight and kerb weight, how they are measured and why they matter when buying or using a car.

Kerb Weight Definition

The kerb weight refers to the weight of a vehicle in its standard operating condition. In simple terms, kerb weight meaning is the weight of the vehicle as it leaves the factory, including:

  • Engine oil
  • Coolant
  • Brake fluid
  • Other operating fluids
  • Full fuel tank
  • Standard equipment

However, kerb weight does not include:

  • Passengers
  • Cargo or luggage
  • Aftermarket accessories
  • Roof carriers
  • Auxiliary lights

For example, if the 2026 Brezza turbo petrol has a kerb weight of 1150kg, that’s how much the vehicle weighs before anyone gets inside or luggage is loaded.

What Is Gross Vehicle Weight?

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), also know as Gross Weight, is the maximum permitted weight of the vehicle fully loaded. It includes:

  • Kerb weight
  • Driver
  • Passengers
  • Luggage
  • Accessories
  • Any additional load carried inside or on the vehicle

Manufacturers specify a maximum gross vehicle weight to ensure the car remains safe and operated within the limits of its suspension, tyres, brakes and chassis. The gross vehicle weight can be found on the car’s owner’s manual or the registration certificate (RC).

The gross vehicle weight of the 2026 Maruti Brezza turbo petrol, according to dealers we contacted, is 1600kg. This means, with a kerb weight of 1150kg and gross weight of 1600kg, the Brezza turbo petrol can safely carry a payload of 450kg. This figure includes the driver, passenger, luggage and accessories added after purchase.

Gross Vehicle Weight Vs Kerb Weight

The easiest way to understand Gross Vehicle Weight Vs Kerb Weight is through this comparison:

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT Vs. KERB WEIGHT

Gross Vehicle Weight

Kerb Weight

Maximum permitted weight of the fully loaded vehicle

Weight of the empty vehicle with fluids and full fuel

Includes passengers, luggage and cargo

Does not include passengers or luggage

Maximum permitted value

Fixed value

Used to determine loading capacity

Used to measure the vehicle itself

Why Does Kerb Weight Matter?

The kerb weight meaning becomes important because it affects several aspects of vehicle performance.

A lighter kerb weight generally means:

  • Better mileage (fuel economy)
  • Better acceleration
  • Shorter braking distances
  • More agile handling

A heavier vehicle generally offers:

  • Better stability at high speeds
  • Improved ride comfort
  • Greater structural strength
  • Better crash protection in most situations

Manufacturers constantly try to reduce kerb weight while maintaining strength and safety.

Why Does Gross Vehicle Weight Matter?

GVW is important because exceeding it can negatively affect:

  • Braking performance
  • Suspension durability
  • Tyre life
  • Mileage (fuel efficiency)
  • Vehicle stability
  • Overall safety

Driving a vehicle above its rated GVW can also violate road regulations in many countries.

How To Calculate Payload

Payload is the amount of weight a vehicle can carry safely.

The formula is: Payload = Gross Vehicle Weight − Kerb Weight

Kerb Vs Gross Weight: Which One Should You Check?

Both figures are important, but they serve different purposes.

Check kerb weight if you want to compare:

  • Vehicle performance
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Power-to-weight ratio
  • Handling characteristics

Check GVW if you want to know:

  • How much weight the vehicle can legally carry
  • Payload capacity
  • Suitability for carrying passengers and luggage
  • Towing and commercial use

What Is Minimum Kerb Weight?

The term minimum kerb weight is sometimes used during vehicle certification and testing. It generally refers to the lightest operating weight of a vehicle in its base specification, without optional accessories that could increase its weight.

For most car buyers, manufacturers usually publish only the standard kerb weight, making the term minimum kerb weight less relevant during day-to-day ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is kerb weight the same as empty weight?

No. kerb weight includes a full fuel tank and all operating fluids, whereas empty weight may exclude fuel and certain fluids.

Can I exceed the gross vehicle weight?

No. Exceeding the gross vehicle weight can compromise safety, increase wear on the vehicle and may violate legal weight limits.

How do I find my car's kerb weight?

The kerb weight is usually mentioned in the owner's manual, manufacturer's specifications or vehicle brochure.

Which is always higher: kerb weight or gross vehicle weight?

Gross vehicle weight is always higher because it includes the kerb weight plus passengers, luggage and cargo.

Before you finalise your next car, these V3Cars tools can help you make a more informed decision:

Fuel Cost Calculator for Cars – Know your monthly fuel expense based on usage and mileage

Car On-Road Price Calculator – Convert ex-showroom to on-road price for any city

Sell Used Car Online – Enter your car and contact details to get an instant price estimate and book a free inspection with our partner network

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Did you find this information helpful?

Nikil Jonathan
Nikil Jonathan

Content Writer

Nikil's a huge fan of classic cars, especially Italian beauties such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint and the Iso Grifo. His love for cars and bikes originated when he first laid his eyes on a poster of the Ferrari F40 and the MV Agusta F4 when he was just a child. He also loves all things analogue, especially vintage cameras and turntables.

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