For many first-time or compact car buyers in India, choosing the right small car is a big decision as you want something affordable, easy to drive, fuel-efficient and reliable without feeling too basic.
Two of the most popular names that usually come up in the search are the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 and the Renault Kwid. Both are entry-level hatchbacks, but they offer very different experiences. Let’s have a look at the key differences.
Price
The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 starts at Rs 3.69 lakh (ex-showroom), which makes it one of the most affordable cars you can buy in India at present. The Renault Kwid, on the other hand, starts at Rs 4.29 lakh (ex-showroom). This price gap of around Rs 60,000 is important for budget-conscious buyers and often becomes a deciding factor.
Engine and Performance
The Alto K10 is powered by a 998cc, 3-cylinder petrol engine that produces around 66 bhp and 89 Nm of torque. It is easy for city use and feels light and easy to drive. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual or an AMT (automatic). There’s also a CNG option, which delivers mileage of up to 33.85 km/kg.
The Renault Kwid also offers a 1.0-litre petrol engine (999cc) producing around 67 bhp and 91 Nm of torque. Performance is comparable to the Alto, but the Kwid feels slightly stronger on open roads. It is available with manual and AMT options, though mileage is a bit lower at around 22-24 kmpl.
Design and Space
This is where the biggest difference lies, as the Alto K10 is a traditional small hatchback which is compact, simple, easy to park and it is ideal for crowded cities. The Kwid, however, stands out with its SUV-inspired design, higher 184 mm ground clearance and a more muscular look. From the inside, the Kwid also offers a larger boot which is 279 litres compared to the Alto’s 214 litres.
Features and Technology
The Alto K10 surprises with features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on higher variants. It is built on Maruti’s HEARTECT platform, which improves stability and efficiency.
The Kwid goes a step further in style and tech, offering an 8-inch touchscreen, a fully digital instrument cluster and more modern-looking interiors, especially in higher trims.
Safety
Both cars come with dual front airbags and ABS as standard. Higher variants of the Alto K10 even offer up to six airbags, which is impressive for this segment. Maruti’s biggest strength is its low maintenance costs and wide service network, especially in smaller towns.
Renault offers good safety features in higher trims, including traction control and a rear-view camera, but service reach may not be as extensive as Maruti’s.
If you want the most affordable, fuel-efficient, and easy-to-own car, the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 is hard to beat. But if you prefer a bigger-looking car with SUV styling, more space, and a modern cabin, and don’t mind paying extra, the Renault Kwid makes a strong case.