There are endless number of automobiles with varying body styles, but the one which often stays in demand is the hatchback category. Well, since Maruti Suzuki has been studying the market very closely from so many years, it offers a lot of cars in almost every segment. If we talk about Alto 800, this model has now acquired a safe position in its segment owing to the fuel efficiency and pricing factor. However, a new offering has been introduced named Renault Kwid and it’s surely doing a commendable job.

Kwid-VS-Alto-800

Alto 800 is a typical hatchback in terms of style, size and price, whereas the Kwid shocked everyone with its distinctive appearance, which seemed more like an SUV. If you are wondering whether to choose the renowned Alto or the latest Kwid, we bring to you a well-structured comparison between Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 and Renault Kwid. It encompasses all the essential aspects and features of both the hatchbacks.

Style and Design

The Renault Kwid is quite refreshing with an SUV stance and muscular bonnet that carries power bulges on its surface. The use of chrome is loud and there is a lot of cladding on the sides, bumper and on the wheel arches. Its roof gets a U-shaped depression and roof rails can be opted as a customised feature. Further; fog lamps, power antenna, rear spoiler, and the mesh pattern grille complete the package, thereby imparting it a rugged and sporty look.

Well, looking at the price tag, one may feel that certain things will have to be compromised, but that’s not the case with Kwid. In fact, it is unbelievable that the automaker has offered so many facilities. It not only carries a plush look, but the boot space is so huge that it’s the maximum any other car could offer in the segment. The knobs are neatly arranged and there is a digital display on the instrument cluster.

Kwid-VS-Alto-800-Style-&-Design

If we talk about Alto 800, it’s neither outstanding nor disappointing in terms of looks. It gets very basic styling in the form of a twin grille, trapezoidal front bumper, petal-like headlamps, prominent shoulder line, well-defined wheel arches and small-sized wheels. However, there aren’t any fog-lamps on the bumper or even fog light housing for that matter.

If we talk about the interiors, it comes with a choice of Grey and Black color schemes. The seats are not properly cushioned and tall people may find the headroom to be inadequate. Moreover, the equipments like instrument cluster, centre console and steering wheel are quite simple.

Handling and Performance

Powered by a petrol motor, the Kwid is available with a 799 cc displacement and transmission is performed by a 5-speed manual gearbox. Besides, an automated manual transmission is also on the offer with certain variants. This car from Renault can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 16 seconds, while the top speed of 135 km/h is attained.

Kwid-VS-Alto-800-interior

Alto 800 is packed under the hood with a petrol engine that offers 796 cc of displacement and transmission is handled by a 5-speed manual gearbox. Talking about the sprinting abilities of the hatch, it can cover up to 100 km/h from standstill in just 19 seconds while the top speed limited to 140 km/h.

Engine and Power Specifications

The Kwid is fitted under the hood with an all new 0.8 litre engine, 3-cylinder unit that has ultimately proved to be the most fuel efficient powertrain in the country. The maximum power churned out by this mechanical setup stands at 53.3Bhp and a peak torque of 74Nm at 4,386 rpm. This output is more than that generated in Alto by 6Bhp. Soon, the automaker is also coming up with a 1 litre unit that will be mated to an AMT facility. The output churned out in this arrangement is expected to be around 70Bhp and 90Nm.

Kwid-VS-Alto-800-Engine-&-Power

Alto 800 is packed with the same F8D engine under the hood that consists of a 0.8 litre unit, but with some changes. It has been made more powerful with the output figure reaching to 47Hp at 6000 rpm and 69 Nm at 3500 rpm. The gearbox has been improved and gears work smoothly, thereby making your ride pleasant. However, if you want to step out from the city and explore the highway roads, you may feel that other players in the segment are much better than this one in terms of fuel economy.

Features

If we talk about the Kwid, it’s been loaded with some amazing features that seem to be a distant reality for someone who is buying an entry level hatchback. It gets equipped with power steering, accessory power outlet, remote trunk opener, adjustable seats, navigation, touchscreen, rear seat headrest, low fuel warning light, fabric upholstery, Bluetooth & USB connectivity and much more. The occupants will feel safe while they are seated in this car because they will be protected against accident-like or theft situations by components like central locking, child safety locks, power door locks, engine immobilizer, side & front impact beams and centrally mounted fuel tank.

Check Also - The All New Renault Kwid India Infographic

This Maruti Suzuki offering is not high on comfort, but still the basic and important factors can definitely be seen inside. The top end variant of the car offers convenience to its occupants in the form of features like air conditioner, power steering, remote trunk opener, remote fuel lid opener, adjustable seats, low fuel warning light, fabric upholstery, rear seat headrest, and cup-holders at the front. Moreover, the safety aspect is catered with the help of fitments like rear seatbelt, crash sensor, driver side airbag, side & front impact beams, day/night rear view mirror and engine immobilizer.

Pricing

The Kwid lineup is offered with 5 different variants namely STD, RXE, RXL RXT, and RXT Driver Bag Option. The pricing falls in the range of INR 2.7-3.7 Lacs starting from the base to top end variant.

Kwid-VS-Alto-800-Price

On the other hand, Alto 800 is offers a more wide lineup consisting of 10 variants, out of which 2 are CNG models, namely STD, STD optional, LX, LX Optional, LXI, LXI Optional, VXI, VXI Airbag, CNG LXI, and CNG LXI Optional. The price tag fixed for these variants fall in the bracket of INR 2.7-3.9 Lacs, from the base to the top end trim.

Verdict

After going through the specifications and features of both the entry level hatchbacks, I’d like to favour Renault Kwid. Although, both these cars are available at a similar price range and with almost same safety components, yet when we focus on the style and the kind of amenities provided, Kwid is a clear winner. The 300 litre boot space, digital display, touchscreen and most importantly an impressive mileage are some hard to miss factors. However, those for whom looks don’t matter may prefer the Alto 800. After all, it’s a Maruti product and hence the image of the brand acts as a plus factor here.

So, how did you find this comparison between Renault Kwid and Maruti Alto 800? Was it informative enough? Do share your opinion in the comment section below.