Maruti Swift vs Tata Punch – What to Buy For Rs 8 Lakh?

In this post, we are comparing the new Maruti Swift and Tata Punch on the basis of specs, price (variants around Rs 8 lakh), features and safety. Both these are mighty capable vehicles. However, they have distinct applications. On one hand, the Swift is among the highest-selling vehicles in our market ever. It has been around since 2005. It recently received the fourth generation update. On the other hand, the Tata Punch is a micro SUV which offers the traits of a sporty SUV at the price of a hatchback. Let us compare the two trims of these cars which are priced at around Rs 8 lakh.

Maruti Swift vs Tata Punch – Price and Variants

While browsing through the trim details of these cars, I was able to select two trims which are priced in the vicinity of Rs 8 lakh and come with enough features to pamper the occupants. For the new Swift, this would be the Zxi variant. It is a second-from-the-top version, which means that there will be most features on offer. On the other hand, I chose the Accomplished Dazzle trim of the Punch. It has a price tag of Rs 8.25 lakh. Both these prices are ex-showroom and almost similar. Hence, the comparison will be fair.

Maruti Swift vs Tata Punch – Specs

The new Maruti Swift comes with a brand-new engine. This is a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z12E petrol engine with mild hybrid technology. This mill churns out a decent 82 PS and 112 Nm of peak power and torque. There are options of choosing between either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. In the manual version, the buyers will be able to squeeze out 24.8 kmpl mileage (ARAI), while with the AMT gearbox, there is an opportunity to get a decent 25.75 kmpl mileage (ARAI). People looking for low running costs would definitely find these statistics mighty enticing. The new Swift offers a handy boot space of 265 litres and a sporty ground clearance of 163 mm.

On the other hand, the Tata Punch comes in multiple iterations. This includes a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine which produces a healthy 88 PS and 115 Nm of peak power and torque. This engine is also available in CNG guise where these figures drop to 74 PS and 103 Nm, respectively. There are options of choosing between either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. In the manual avatar, the owner can get a mileage of 20.09 kmpl, while the AMT trim offers 18.8 kmpl. The Swift has a distinct advantage in this regard. The buyers will get a decent boot space at 366 litres and a more-than-enough ground clearance of 187 mm. This should allow it to conquer most terrains even though it is not meant for off-roading. In addition to that, there is also a CNG version on offer under Rs 8 lakh. That outputs 74 PS and 103 Nm of peak power and torque. It has a mileage of 26.99 km/kg. It is for those who are looking for a low running cost alternative.

Safety and Drive Impressions

The new 2024 Maruti Swift has been updated in terms of safety. This time around, the largest carmaker in the country is offering 6 airbags and tons of other safety equipment as standard across the range. This has to be the highest level of safety the Swift has ever received. However, we must wait for the Bharat NCAP test for official safety ratings. Apart from that, our team got the opportunity to drive the new Swift during the media drive. The 3-cylinder is engine is extremely smooth and effortless. In comparison to the outgoing Z Series, the performance figures are down a little. But you would hardly feel any different in the real world.

On the other hand, the Punch gets 2 airbags. However, it has already been tested at the Global NCAP. It has bagged a full 5 stars. That is a huge attraction of the Punch for many buyers. People get world-class safety at affordable prices. Apart from that, even though it gets a 3-cylinder engine, the operation is not as smooth as the Swift. It is not unsettling in any way. But in comparison to the new Swift, you certainly feel some engine vibrations. Still, both cars are quite capable in their own right.

Features Comparison

Since both variants of these cars are second-from-top trims, they are generally considered the most value for money. That is the appeal of both cars. On one hand, the Swift is the newer of the two. Hence, it is able to offer many new-age features. On the other hand, the Punch also gets tons of modern connectivity, convenience and tech features. Let us glance at the functionalities the Maruti Swift Zxi gets.

• 7-inch Infotainment Display with SmartPlay Pro
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Onboard Voice Assistant via “Hi Suzuki”
• Over-the-Air (OTA) System Upgrades Using Smartphones
• Wireless Charger
• Auto AC
• Rear AC Vents
• Rear Wiper & Washer
• 60:40 Split Rear Seat
• Rear USB Ports
• Adjustable Rear Seat Headrests
• Luggage Room Lamp
• 6 Airbags
• 6-Speaker Audio System
• Electronic Stability Control
• Hill Hold Assist
• ABS with EBD
• Engine Push Start/Stop Button w/ Smart Key
• Electrically Foldable and Adjustable ORVMs
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Alexa Skill Connectivity
• Smartwatch Connectivity
• Rear USB Ports
• Steering-Mounted Audio Controls

On the other hand, the Tata Punch Accomplished Dazzle version offers:

• 7-inch Floating Touchscreen Infotainment System by Harman
• 6-Speaker Audio System
• Reverse Parking Camera
• 15-inch Hyper Style Wheels
• Push Button Start/Stop
• Driver Seat Height Adjustment
• Front and Rear AC
• Cruise Control
• Traction Control (AMT)
• Steering-Mounted Controls
• Electrically Adjustable ORVMs
• Anti-Glare IRVM
• 2 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• ISOFIX
• 90-Degree Opening Door
• Front Seat Armrest
• Front Fog Lamps

Our View

The new Maruti Swift and Tata Punch are two distinct automobiles with a huge price overlap. That is what could confuse some car buyers. However, I would like to highlight the specific pros and cons and use cases of each of these. Swift is for those consumers who are looking for a family car with the best-in-segment mileage figures. These are those customers who prioritize low running costs and peace of mind over everything else. Being the new vehicle, it comes with the latest tech and convenience features.

On the other hand, the Punch offers customers a way to own a vehicle with SUV-ish traits and characteristics without having to shell out the big bucks. That is also a preference of a lot of growing audiences who are looking for the road presence of an SUV. Needless to mention, practicality is a huge factor here too. The Punch has a significantly larger boot space and a much higher ground clearance. That is enough to glide over most undulations on the road. Hence, while it might not be a verified off-roader, it certainly possesses some valuable components and elements to make the occupants easy off-tarmac as well. Hence, I would urge our readers to make a decision based on their needs. In any case, you can’t go wrong with either of these.

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