Published : 08 August 2026
Read Time : 5 min
Author: Nikil Jonathan
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.

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.
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:
However, kerb weight does not include:
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.
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), also know as Gross Weight, is the maximum permitted weight of the vehicle fully loaded. It includes:
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.
The easiest way to understand Gross Vehicle Weight Vs Kerb Weight is through this comparison:
The kerb weight meaning becomes important because it affects several aspects of vehicle performance.
A lighter kerb weight generally means:
A heavier vehicle generally offers:
Manufacturers constantly try to reduce kerb weight while maintaining strength and safety.
GVW is important because exceeding it can negatively affect:
Driving a vehicle above its rated GVW can also violate road regulations in many countries.
Payload is the amount of weight a vehicle can carry safely.
The formula is: Payload = Gross Vehicle Weight − Kerb Weight
Both figures are important, but they serve different purposes.
Check kerb weight if you want to compare:
Check GVW if you want to know:
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.
No. kerb weight includes a full fuel tank and all operating fluids, whereas empty weight may exclude fuel and certain fluids.
No. Exceeding the gross vehicle weight can compromise safety, increase wear on the vehicle and may violate legal weight limits.
The kerb weight is usually mentioned in the owner's manual, manufacturer's specifications or vehicle brochure.
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
Did you find this information helpful?

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.

























Comments
0 comments