Cartrade Comparison Test
The Maruti Suzuki Swift is a compact hatchback from the largest automobile manufacturer in India. Swift was already a popular model internationally as it started its tenure in Japan in 2000. After going through different changes and much iteration, the Swift was finally brought to India as a replacement of the aging Maruti 1000. It was launched in India in 2005 with a1.3L petrol engine. Its 3rd generation was launched in 2011. It is available in petrol as well as diesel at a price range of Rs. 4.75 to Rs. 7.23 lakhs.
Volkswagen Polo changed the hatchback scene in India by bringing its premium feel in a segment which was for masses. The Polo is a stunning looking hatchback with simple design elements. The present generation Polo which is the Mark V is available in many countries and assembled in Spain, India, Russia and South America. The Volkswagen Polo in India is available at a range of Rs. 5.07 to Rs. 8.03 lakhs. It is also available in a performance based GT TSI version.
Exterior: Maruti Suzuki Swift Vs Volkswagen Polo
The Volkswagen Polo clearly sweeps away everyone with its modern looks. It looks like a hatch which has been very well furnished with all the essentials. Volkswagen Polo has always had staunchly distinguishing lines compared to other hatchbacks. While hatchbacks by definition have been mere smaller cars, the Polo offers character and compactness without losing its sharpness. Its edgy appearance makes it unique. The minimal design elements makes it look sophisticated and premium.
The Maruti Suzuki Swift on the other hand set a new trend by Maruti as before the Swift, the company did not have an impressive looking car. The Swift with its long stretched hood, pulled back headlamp design makes it a good looking small car. The Swift borrows certain cues from the cult classic Mini Cooper. The new generation Swift has got wider and bigger than its predecessor. The basic variants feature 165/80 R14 steel wheels which have been fitted in LXi, LDi,VXi, and VDi versions, though the basic version comes with hub center cap while the higher variant with full wheel cap. The top variant features 185/65 R15 alloy wheels, with center cap.
Interior: Maruti Suzuki Swift Vs Volkswagen Polo
Inside the Polo is very similar to all Volkswagen cars where functionality holds more priority than aesthetics. The leather wrapped steering wheel has audio and phone controls on it. The instrumental panel is simple and has red digits showing all the necessary information. It shows information like trip reading, gear engaged, fuel left, average speed etc. The front dashboard is done in two tones with beige and dark finish. The colours used in the interiors trims are very subtle and don’t look very bling with heavy chrome surround.
In the new Maruti Suzuki Swift, considerable importance has been given to improve utility and cosmetic interior features. New features include a sporty wrap around door trims, day and night internal rear view mirror, three spoke sporty steering wheel, silver accents in steering wheels, front door trim pockets, large volume glove box, Parcel shelf, folding assistant grip, sun visor, and ticket holder on driver side, roof lamp, inside door chrome handles etc.
Performance: Maruti Suzuki Swift Vs Volkswagen Polo
The Swift comes with a K series Petrol engine with VVT. This is a 1197cc engine which produces a power of 87PS as 6000 rpm and a torque of 114Nm at 4000 rpm. It is metted with a 5 speed manual transmission. There are many who vouch for the petrol unit’s performance and claim this is the best in its class. The 1248cc DDiS diesel engine churns out 75 PS of power at 4000 rpm and a torque of 190Nm at 2000 rpm. Maruti Suzuki does not provide an automatic transmission
The Volkswagen Polo comes in a 3 cylinder 1198 cc petrol engine which produces a power of 75PS at 5400rpm and a torque of 110Nm at 3750 rpm. It is offered in 5 speed manual transmission. The diesel unit is again 1.2L and produces a power output of 75PS at 4200 rpm and a torque of 180Nm at 2000 rpm. It also has a GT TSI version which features the first in class 7 Speed DSG gearbox but this option is available only in petrol trim.
Conclusion: Maruti Suzuki Swift Vs Volkswagen Polo
The choices are very distinct when it comes to these 2 hatches. If running cost, ease or service and cheaper spares are concerned the Swift makes it to the top without any competition in real. However, if performance and looks are concerned, the Polo is the best looking and performing hatch India has seen.
