The Indian hatchback market is a fiercely competitive battleground, and two of the most popular contenders are the Maruti Suzuki Swift and the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. Both cars cater to a similar audience seeking stylish, feature-packed, and fuel-efficient city runabouts. But with the recent generational update for the Swift, how do these hatchbacks stack up against each other in terms of specifications, features, and value? Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one might be the perfect fit for you.
Sizing Up: Dimensions and Space
- Length & Width: The 2024 Swift boasts a slightly larger footprint compared to the Grand i10 Nios. It measures 45 mm longer and 55 mm wider, translating to potentially more cabin space and a more imposing presence on the road.
| Dimension | 2024 Maruti Swift | Hyundai Grand i10 Nios |
|---|---|---|
| Length (mm) | 3860 | 3815 |
| Width (mm) | 1735 | 1680 |
| Height (mm) | 1520 | 1520 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2450 | 2450 |
- Height & Wheelbase: Interestingly, both cars share the same height (1520 mm) and wheelbase (2450 mm). This suggests that the perceived roominess advantage of the Swift might be more prominent in terms of shoulder room and under-thigh support for rear passengers.
Powertrain Showdown: Performance and Fuel Efficiency
- Engine Options: Here’s where the strategies diverge. The new Swift currently offers a single 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine churning out 82 PS of power and 112 Nm of torque. Maruti might introduce additional engine options later, but for now, the Grand i10 Nios has the upper hand in variety. It boasts a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine generating 83 PS and 114 Nm of torque, along with a factory-fitted CNG option powered by the same 1.2-litre engine but delivering 69 PS and 95.2 Nm on CNG fuel.
| Engine Option | 2024 Maruti Swift | Hyundai Grand i10 Nios |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol Engine | 1.2L, 3-cylinder | 1.2L, 4-cylinder |
| Power (PS) | 82 | 83 (Petrol) |
| Torque (Nm) | 112 | 114 (Petrol) |
| CNG Option | No | Yes (69 PS & 95.2 Nm) |
- Transmission: Both cars offer a 5-speed manual transmission as standard. The Swift additionally provides the option of a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission), while the Grand i10 Nios also has a 5-speed AMT option available.
- Fuel Efficiency: Maruti has made significant strides in fuel efficiency with the new Swift. The claimed mileage figure for the petrol engine with the AMT option crosses the 25 kmpl mark, potentially making it a more economical choice in the long run.
Feature Face-Off: Comfort, Convenience, and Safety
Here’s a breakdown of the key features offered by both hatchbacks, categorized for easy comparison:
Exterior Features
| Feature | 2024 Maruti Swift | Hyundai Grand i10 Nios |
|---|---|---|
| Headlights | LED Projector | Halogen Projector |
| DRLs | LED | LED |
| Tail Lights | LED | LED |
| Fog Lamps | LED | Halogen |
| Alloy Wheels | 15-inch | 15-inch |
| Antenna | Roof | Shark Fin |
Interior Features
| Feature | 2024 Maruti Swift | Hyundai Grand i10 Nios |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | All Black | Dual-Tone |
| Seat Upholstery | Fabric | Fabric |
| Steering Wheel | Leather Wrapped | Leather Wrapped |
| Footwell Lighting | Yes | Yes |
Comfort & Convenience Features
| Feature | 2024 Maruti Swift | Hyundai Grand i10 Nios |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Automatic | Automatic |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Yes | Yes |
| ORVMs | Electrically Adjustable & Auto-Folding | Electrically |
FAQs:
Q: Which car offers a better driving experience?
A: Both cars are known for their manoeuvrability and zippy performance in city traffic. However, in-depth reviews suggest the Swift might have a slight edge in handling due to its slightly stiffer suspension setup. Test driving both cars will help you decide which one offers a driving experience that aligns better with your preferences.
Q: Is the Swift’s new 3-cylinder engine less powerful than the Grand i10 Nios’ 4-cylinder engine?
A: On paper, the Swift’s 3-cylinder engine has a slightly lower power output (82 PS) compared to the Grand i10 Nios’ 4-cylinder engine (83 PS). However, the difference in real-world driving scenarios might be negligible. Additionally, the Swift boasts a lighter kerb weight, which could potentially compensate for the slight power difference.
Q: Should I opt for the CNG variant of the Grand i10 Nios?
A: The CNG variant of the Grand i10 Nios offers significantly lower running costs compared to the petrol version. However, the CNG option comes with a trade-off in terms of performance (lower power output) and limited boot space due to the CNG tank placement. If fuel efficiency is your top priority and you can manage with the reduced boot space, the CNG variant could be a good choice. However, if performance and a larger boot are important factors for you, the petrol variants of both the Swift and Grand i10 Nios might be better suited.
