Renault’s Kwid and Maruti Suzuki’s Alto are popular names in the entry-level segment in the country. The Kwid hatchback from Renault has been giving a tough time to the market leader Maruti Suzuki in the entry-level segment. Moreover, the recently introduced Kwid AMT is likely to take a considerable share from Alto K10 AMT which had no competitors yet. The AMT versions have been offered in top-spec variants.
Engine: The Alto K10 and the Renault Kwid AMT are both powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine. The Alto K10 AMT comes with a five-speed AMT gearbox which produces about 66bhp of power and 90Nm of torque, while the Kwid AMT generates about 64bhp of power and 91Nm of torque. In terms of fuel efficiency figures, both the vehicles return almost identical numbers, with ARAI figures for Kwid claiming 24.04kmpl and 24.07kmpl for the Alto K10. Interestingly, the Kwid scores some brownie points with segment first Shift Control AMT Dial (Reverse-Neutral-Drive modes), while the Alto comes with a traditional gearstick pattern.
Exterior: On the design aspect, the Alto K10 AMT moves out from its conventional form and now comes forth with a modern approach with large profile headlamps with chrome detailing. The grille gets slimmer and longer with one horizontal chrome slat. The rear also comes with a bigger tail lamp as compared to the older generation. The Kwid on the other hand comes with an SUV-like stance with a bold, structured grille, and sharp C-shaped slim headlamps. The bumpers come with a black cladding that adds to its robust and rugged appeal.
Interior: The Alto K10 has a dual tone interior and a new instrument cluster which makes it all the more engaging. The Kwid offers a slightly sportier feel with black, red and grey fabric theme upholstery. The latter also offers 7-inch touch-screen media-nav system offers Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation and iPhone and iPod operation. Moreover, the instrument cluster with an onboard digital trip computer reads out gear shift details, distance to empty and more. Moreover, when compared to the Alto K10, the Kwid offers ample interior space and class-leading 300-litres of boot space which can be extended to 1115-litres.
Conclusion: In terms of pricing, the Alto K10 AMT starts at Rs 4.05 lakh whereas the Kwid AMT comes at an introductory price of Rs 4.25 lakh (Both prices, ex-showroom Delhi). The Alto K10 does feel a bit quicker due to a lower body weight, but then the Kwid impresses with loads of features and modern design which easily makes it a better choice between the two.
