Swift ZXi AMT vs Grand i10 Nios AMT: Which Premium Small Car Wins in 2024?

Top Reasons for Consideration

Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi AMT:

1. Fuel Efficiency: An exceptional ARAI-rated mileage of 25.75 kmpl, translating to significant fuel savings.

2. Advanced Safety: 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and additional safety features for comprehensive protection.

3. Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

4. Performance: 1.2L engine delivering 80.46bhp and 111.7Nm torque for a balanced driving experience.

5. Comfort Features: Automatic climate control, keyless entry, and push-button start for enhanced convenience.

6. Styling: LED headlamps, DRLs, and alloy wheels contributing to a modern aesthetic.

7. Practicality: 265 liters of boot space for versatile storage solutions.

8. Brand Value: Maruti Suzuki's reputation for reliability and extensive service network.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Asta AMT:

1. Competitive Pricing: Rs. 856,300, offering a 2.6% price advantage over the Swift ZXi AMT.

2. Modern Design: Contemporary exterior styling appealing to style-conscious buyers.

3. Feature-Rich: Comprehensive set of convenience features even in the Asta variant.

4. Spacious Interior: Ample room for passengers, suitable for small families.

5. Brand Reputation: Hyundai's strong reputation for build quality and after-sales service.

Numberspeak:

1. Pricing: • Swift ZXi AMT: Rs. 879,500 • Grand i10 Nios Asta AMT: Rs. 856,300 (Grand i10 Nios has a 2.6% price advantage)

2. Engine Specifications: • Swift: 1197cc engine, 80.46bhp@5700rpm, 111.7Nm@4300rpm • Grand i10 Nios: 1197cc engine, 81.80bhp@6000rpm, 113.8Nm@4000rpm

3. Fuel Efficiency: • Swift: 25.75 kmpl • Grand i10 Nios: 16 kmpl (Swift offers 61% better fuel economy)

4. Dimensions: • Swift: 3860mm x 1735mm x 1520mm (LxWxH) • Grand i10 Nios: 3815mm x 1680mm x 1520mm (LxWxH)

5. Boot Space: • Swift: 265 liters • Grand i10 Nios: 260 liters

6. Safety: Both offer 6 airbags

7. Infotainment: • Swift: 7-inch touchscreen • Grand i10 Nios: 8-inch touchscreen

While the Grand i10 Nios has a slight edge in power output and a larger infotainment screen, the Swift leads significantly in fuel efficiency and offers marginally more boot space.

Exterior Design:

The Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi AMT exudes a sporty and dynamic presence. Its LED headlamps, DRLs, and 15-inch alloy wheels contribute to a modern and aggressive look. The Swift's design has evolved over generations, maintaining its iconic shape while incorporating contemporary elements that resonate with young buyers.

In contrast, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Asta AMT, following its recent facelift, features a larger grille and new tri-arrow daytime running lights, giving it a fresh and eye-catching appearance. The reshaped tail-lights linked by a reflector band add to its modern aesthetics. While not as sporty as the Swift, the Grand i10 Nios offers a more sophisticated and premium look that may appeal to those seeking a more understated elegance.

Interior and Comfort:

Step inside the Swift, and you're greeted by a driver-focused cockpit with a well-designed dashboard. Key features include:

• 7-inch touchscreen positioned for easy access

• Automatic climate control for effortless temperature management

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel adding a premium touch

• 60:40 split rear seat enhancing versatility

The Grand i10 Nios boasts a practical and well-thought-out interior with lighter colors and new upholstery, creating an airy ambiance. Noteworthy elements include:

• High-set seating position for improved visibility

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• Surprisingly spacious rear section, comfortable for two adults

• 3.5-inch multi-information display

However, the Grand i10 Nios lacks automatic climate control, a feature present in the Swift.

Driving Experience:

The Swift's 1.2L engine, paired with the 5-speed AMT, delivers a balanced performance, engaging driving dynamics and responsive steering.

On the other hand, the Grand i10 Nios offers a refined and easy-going engine performance. Its AMT is considered one of the best in the segment, with smooth shifts after the initial gear change. The Grand i10 Nios prioritizes comfort over sportiness.

Practicality:

Both vehicles offer similar boot capacities (Swift: 265L, Grand i10 Nios: 260L), with the Swift having a slight 1.9% advantage. The Swift's marginally larger dimensions may translate to slightly more interior space. Both cars provide ample storage solutions and comfortable seating for five passengers, catering to the needs of young professionals and small families alike.

Feature Comparison

Infotainment and Connectivity:

• Swift: 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, 4 speakers

• Grand i10 Nios: 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, 4 speakers

Safety Features:

• Both offer 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, rear camera, ISOFIX child seat mounts

Comfort and Convenience:

• Swift: Automatic climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, tilt steering

• Grand i10 Nios: Manual AC, keyless entry, push-button start, tilt steering

Exterior Features:

• Swift: LED headlamps, LED DRLs, LED taillights, 15-inch alloy wheels

• Grand i10 Nios: Projector headlamps, LED DRLs, LED taillights, 15-inch alloy wheels

Additional Features:

• Swift: Cruise control, auto-folding mirrors, rear wiper and washer

• Grand i10 Nios: Front and rear USB charger, rear AC vents, cooled glovebox

Both cars offer a comprehensive set of features catering to tech-savvy buyers. The Swift edges ahead with automatic climate control and LED headlamps, while the Grand i10 Nios counters with a larger touchscreen and wireless phone charging.

Persona-Price Based Recommendation

For a style-conscious, tech-savvy young professional in the Rs. 8-10 lakh price range, the Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi AMT emerges as the recommended choice. Despite its 2.6% higher price point, it offers superior value through a combination of advanced features, enhanced safety, and exceptional fuel efficiency.

Key factors supporting this recommendation:

1. Efficiency: 61% better fuel economy translates to significant long-term savings.

2. Safety: Comprehensive safety features including 6 airbags provide peace of mind.

3. Performance: Engaging driving dynamics align with the preferences of young professionals.

4. Comfort: Automatic climate control enhances the daily driving experience.

5. Practicality: Slightly larger dimensions and boot space add to its versatility.

While the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Asta AMT is a strong contender with its premium look and features like wireless charging, the Swift's overall package of efficiency, performance, and brand value makes it a more compelling option for this specific buyer persona within the given price range.