New Maruti Swift Lxi vs Renault Kiger RXL – What to Buy for Rs 6.5 Lakh?

The new Maruti Swift has been launched in our market in its fourth generation avatar recently as I compare its base model with the Renault Kiger RXL (second-from-bottom). Swift has been one of the biggest names in the Indian automobile market ever since its launch back in 2005. It is a household name and has consistently featured on the list of the highest-selling hatchbacks ever. In fact, what blows my mind is the kind of demand it commands even today. To Maruti’s credit, it has kept it updated all these years with some sorts of generational changes, as well as minor updates. On the other hand, the Renault Kiger is a sub-compact SUV which offers an imposing road presence. That is the main reason why most people opt for it. Let us see how well these two compare in lower trims.

New Maruti Swift Lxi vs Renault Kiger RXL – Price Comparison

Let us commence this list with a price comparison. The base Lxi variant of the new Swift retails for an attractive Rs 6.49 lakh, ex-showroom. This is the entry-level Swift which comes with tons of standard features. The range-topping trim sells for Rs 9.65 lakh, ex-showroom. I can totally understand the appeal of why customers would want this. It gives you all the safety features, great mileage, and a new engine without having to spend huge money. On the other hand, the Renault Kiger retails between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 11.23 lakh, ex-showroom. The RXL sells for Rs 6.60 lakh, ex-showroom. Even it gets many basic amenities to pamper the customers. For Kiger, you can also opt for an automatic transmission for an additional Rs 50,000. However, the Swift doesn’t offer an automatic gearbox in the base variant.

New Maruti Swift Lxi vs Renault Kiger RXL – Specs Comparison

The main aspect of these cars is the powertrain. The new Swift boasts a brand-new engine which is a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z12E mill, unlike the 1.2-litre 4-cylinder K Series unit in the outgoing model. It produces a decent 82 PS and 112 Nm of peak power and torque. The transmission duties are carried out by either a 5-speed manual or an AMT automatic. However, the base Lxi gets the option of a sole manual. But the major attraction of the new Swift is its 24.8 kmpl mileage with the manual gearbox and a whopping 25.75 kmpl mileage with the automatic. Being a family hatchback, the boot capacity is a decent 265-litre and the ground clearance is 163 mm. These credentials make the new Swift an almost irresistible product.

On the other hand, the Renault Kiger comes with a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder naturally aspirated or turbo petrol engine. These generate a decent 72 PS / 96 Nm and 100 PS / 160 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. Since we are talking about the RXL version, it only gets the former configuration. There are options of choosing between either a 5-speed manual or an AMT automatic gearbox with the naturally aspirated mill. The turbo petrol engine can be had with either a 5-speed manual or an x-tronic CVT automatic gearbox. Where it truly shines, however, it a cavernous boot compartment which measures 405-litre. This enhances the practicality a lot. Also, being an SUV, the ground clearance is a handy 205 mm which is enough for the drivers to take it across most terrains.

New Maruti Swift Lxi vs Renault Kiger RXL – Features Comparison

Interestingly, this is what most customers will want to see. We know that top variants of modern cars come with all the bells and whistles. But there are many customers, especially around this price point who opt for the base trim. Hence, it becomes important to offer the basis amenities in base variants as well. That is what makes things exciting. Let us see what the base trim of the new Maruti Swift comes with, to begin with:

• MID Driver’s Instrument Cluster
• Manual Air Conditioner with Panel Illumination
• LED Taillamps
• 14-inch Steel Wheels
• Projector Halogen Headlamps
• Central Door Locking
• Keyless Entry System
• Power and Tilt Steering Wheel
• Adjustable Front Seat Headrests
• Power Windows (Front and Rear)
• Rear Defogger
• Front Accessory Socket
• Electric Back Door Opener
• Manually Adjustable ORVMs
• Electronic Stability Program
• Hill Hold Assist
• 6 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Reverse Parking Sensors
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

Similarly, the Renault Kiger RXL offers tons of features on this RXL trim. These include:

• 3.5-inch LED Instrument Cluster
• LED Headlamps
• Turn Indicators on ORVMs
• Shark Fin Antenna
• Satin Silver Roof Rails
• 16-inch Wheels with Wheel Cover
• Front Grille with Chrome Accent
• Black Fabric Upholstery
• R&GO Audio System
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Remote Keyless Entry
• Day and Night Adjustable IRVM
• Electrically Adjustable ORVMs
• Manual AC with Heater
• Rear AC Vents
• PM 2.5 Air Filter
• All Four Power Windows
• Height Adjust Tilt Steering
• LED Cabin Lamp
• Rear Parcel Shelf
• 2 Airbags
• Electronic Stability Program
• Traction Control System
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Hill Start Assist
• ABS & EBD with Brake Assist

Dimensions Comparison

This is a critical parameter which dictates the physical presence of these cars. The Kiger is definitely the larger of the two as it is an SUV. That also translates to in-cabin space including the boot compartment. Both these are family cars and you will be able to accommodate more suitcases in the Kiger than Swift. The detailed comparison in terms of dimensions of the Swift and Kiger is as follows:

Our View

I must admit both these are quite compelling propositions when it comes to the value-for-money aspect. The Swift is a hatchback which has recently been launched. Hence, it offers a fresh appearance, sporty handling and good ride quality. However, the biggest attraction of the Swift is its incredible mileage. In fact, that is the main reason why people opt for Maruti Suzuki cars to begin with. In addition to that, Maruti cars are low maintenance which makes the ownership costs attractive. The fact that the largest carmaker in the country is offering 6 airbags as standard across the range ensures that car owners won’t have to compromise on safety even in the base trim. Other points in favour of Swift include great re-sale value, decent driving dynamics, a smooth engine, an extensive aftersales service network and more.

On the other hand, the Renault Kiger RXL should be the go-to choice for all those who are looking for an affordable compact SUV. The buyers get to experience the practicality and road presence of a small SUV without having to burn a hole through their pockets. It is still bigger than the Swift and definitely more spacious. Its European appearance is a breath of fresh air. Also, the French carmaker keeps offering enticing discounts on the Kiger frequently. That is something which Swift doesn’t offer since it is already new. However, its naturally aspirated engine could feel a bit underpowered corresponding to its size. All in all, both these vehicles have their strengths and weaknesses. It is a matter of preference and requirement.

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