The premium hatchback segment has witnessed a spurt in the demand for automatic transmissions among urban buyers seeking convenience without compromising on value. Both Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS offer multiple automatic variants to cater to different budget ranges and feature preferences. Let’s analyze which variant offers the best value for money.
Variants Overview
Price Range and Positioning
All prices are ex-showroom:
Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS
– Sportz Executive AMT: ₹7.85 Lakh – Entry automatic
– Sportz AMT: ₹7.93 Lakh – Mid variant
– Asta AMT: ₹8.56 Lakh – Top variant
Maruti Suzuki Swift
– ZXi AMT: ₹8.80 Lakh – Entry automatic
– ZXi Plus AMT: ₹9.50 Lakh – Top variant
– ZXi Plus AMT DT: ₹9.65 Lakh – Dual-tone top variant
Detailed Feature Comparison
Features vs Price Analysis (All Variants)
Feature Category | Swift ZXi AMT (₹8.80L) | Swift ZXi Plus AMT (₹9.50L) | Swift ZXi Plus AMT DT (₹9.65L) | NIOS Sportz Exec AMT (₹7.85L) | NIOS Sportz AMT (₹7.93L) | NIOS Asta AMT (₹8.56L) |
Safety Features | 6 airbags, ESC | 6 airbags, ESC | 6 airbags, ESC | 6 airbags, ESC | 6 airbags, ESC | 6 airbags, ESC, TPMS |
Infotainment | 7″ screen, 4 speakers | 9″ screen, Arkamys | 9″ screen, Arkamys | 8″ screen, 4 speakers | 8″ screen, 4 speakers | 8″ screen, 4 speakers |
Convenience | Auto climate | Auto climate, cruise | Auto climate, cruise | Manual AC | Manual AC | Auto climate |
Special Features | LED lights | LED + fog lamps | LED + fog + DT roof | DRLs | DRLs | DRLs + wireless charging |
Performance Comparison
Parameter | Swift AMT (All Variants) | NIOS AMT (All Variants) |
Engine | 1.2L Z12E | 1.2L Kappa |
Power | 80.46 bhp @ 5700 rpm | 81.80 bhp @ 6000 rpm |
Torque | 111.7 Nm @ 4300 rpm | 113.8 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
Transmission | 5-speed AMT | 5-speed AMT |
Mileage (ARAI) | 25.75 kmpl | 16 kmpl |
Weight | 925 kg | 1100 kg |
Ground Clearance | 163 mm | 165 mm |
Boot Space | 265L | 260L |
Key Insights
Maruti Swift AMT Range
Strengths:
– Class-leading fuel efficiency (25.75 kmpl)
– Lighter weight enhances performance
– Better driving dynamics
– Premium Arkamys audio in top variants
Weaknesses:
– Higher starting price
– No wireless charging option
– Less equipment in base variant
Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS AMT Range
Strengths:
– More affordable entry point
– Better equipped base variants
– Modern features like wireless charging
– Similar power outputs
Weaknesses:
– Significantly lower fuel efficiency
– Higher kerb weight
– 2-star NCAP rating vs Swift’s untested status
Best Value Picks
1. Best Entry Level: Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS Sportz Executive AMT
– Justification:
* Most affordable automatic option
* Essential features covered
* Good urban driveability
* 6 airbags standard
2. Best Mid-Range: Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS Asta AMT
– Justification:
* Well-equipped at competitive price
* Premium features like wireless charging
* Best balance of features and cost
* Full safety suite
3. Best Premium Experience: Maruti Swift ZXi Plus AMT
– Justification:
* Superior fuel efficiency
* Arkamys premium audio
* Complete feature set
* Better driving dynamics
If budget is the primary concern, the Grand i10 NIOS Sportz Executive AMT offers the most affordable entry into automatic hatchbacks while maintaining good feature levels. For the best balance of features and value, the NIOS Asta AMT hits the sweet spot with premium features at a competitive price.
However, if running costs are a priority, any Swift AMT variant would serve well thanks to its excellent fuel efficiency, though at a higher initial cost. The Swift ZXi Plus AMT particularly stands out for those wanting a more premium experience with better audio and driving dynamics.
Choose based on your priorities:
– Budget-focused: NIOS Sportz Executive AMT
– Feature-focused: NIOS Asta AMT
– Efficiency-focused: Swift ZXi AMT
– Premium experience: Swift ZXi Plus AMT
Remember to test drive both cars, as the driving experience can vary significantly despite similar specifications.