Due to its versatility, compact dimensions and economical operating costs, hatchbacks remain a popular body style among Indian car buyers. Especially premium models that blend style, features and powertrain at an affordable price.
Here we compare Hyundai’s latest micro-SUV offering – the Hyundai Xcent, Tata’s sleek Altroz and the reliable Maruti Suzuki Swift to see how they fare in terms of pricing, dimensions, performance, features, safety, to understand their individual strengths. And more on key parameters like how to stand out and value proposition to customers in detail.
| car | base variant | top model |
| Hyundai Exeter | 7.39 lakh | 11.28 lakh |
| Tata Altroz | 7.22 lakh | 12.53 lakh |
| Maruti Swift | 6.55 lakh | 9.91 lakh |
Hyundai Exter and Altroz are priced similarly overall. But Maruti has cut the on-road price of both the models along with Swift and kept it close to the price of Tata Punch car. However, the Altroz comes equipped with more features, justifying its premium.
dimension comparison
For interior spaciousness, cabin length, width and wheelbase measurements matter.
| car | Length | Width | Height | wheelbase |
| Hyundai Exeter | 3815 mm | 1710 mm | 1631 mm | 2450 mm |
| Tata Altroz | 3990 mm | 1755 mm | 1523 mm | 2501 mm |
| Maruti Swift | 3840 mm | 1735 mm | 1530 mm | 2450 mm |
The Exeter focuses on agile dimensions for easy urban commuting. Tata Altroz offers maximum space for comfort. The Swift strikes a balance between practical hatchback appeal. Overall, the Altroz is the most spacious, while the Exeter is the most city-friendly in terms of its size.
exterior design comparison
When it comes to styling, each model has a different design direction, from the techy look of the Hyundai to the show car roots of Tata and the timeless sporty aesthetic of the Swift.
The Exeter adapted Hyundai’s already sensuous sportiness language, but with more modern, technical forms. The Altroz meanwhile displays Tata’s Impact 2.0 lines for a concept car-like sci-fi look. In contrast, the Swift retains the sporty hatchback visuals familiar to its generations for the sake of nostalgia.
In the side profile, the Exeter also gets a floating roof effect and clean surfaces like the Altroz, while the Swift has a flowing sculpture. At the rear, the LED taillights of the Altroz and Exeter are more modern than the Swift’s classic design.
Interior Comfort and Experience
Inside too, the cabin treatment remains unique to each model depending on priorities – flair, functionality or familiarity.
The dual-tone treatment in Exeter adopts a techno look by monitoring the digital clusters. Smartly packaged yet overall practical. The Altroz is stunning with premium materials, intricate details and ambient lighting for sensory enjoyment.
After decades of learning, the Swift offers a trademark all-black durable interior and ease of use.
Infotainment and connected tech
For in-car entertainment, the Exeter gets wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, multi-color MID and Bose sound. The Altroz, meanwhile, responds with a floating touchscreen, voice assistant integration and auto headlamps/wipers. Loaded with SmartPlay touchscreen infotainment, the Swift is good enough for the essentials.
Performance and Mileage
| car | engine options | broadcast | Benefit |
| Hyundai Exeter | 1.2 liter petrol, CNG | 5MT, 5AMT | 19-27km/kg |
| Tata Altroz | 1.2 liter petrol, NA, CNG and turbo diesel | 5MT, 6DCA | 19-26km/kg |
| Maruti Swift | 1.2L K12 Petrol | 5MT, 5AMT Auto | 20-30kmpl |
Exeter’s NA petrol, auto option and factory-fitted CNG focus on maximum efficiency in excess of 20 km/litre. The Altroz offers energetic turbo-petrol and economical diesel engine options for 19-23 km/l economy. The Swift is fully equipped with the proven K12 petrol motor, which returns a mileage of 20-30 km/kg in manual/auto versions.
Comparison of security features
When it comes to safety, all three cars offer essential features like airbags and ABS to reassure buyers. However, there are some differences between the different types in terms of structural strength and additional support provided.
Hyundai Exeter
The higher trims get six airbags, ABS and rear sensors for the base variant along with mandatory ESP, vehicle stability management and hill start assist. Adequate for the segment, but build quality lags behind the Altroz.
Tata Altroz
Front dual airbags, ABS with corner stability control, ISOFIX anchors and rear sensors across all variants are commendable. Electronic stability moves forward by offering brake sway control from mid-variants upwards. The 5-star Global NCAP rating also inspires immense confidence in the structural strength.
Maruti Suzuki Swift
It has dual airbags, ABS and reverse parking sensors for essential safety. Hill hold assist and high-speed warning are nice to have standard. However, it lacks advanced electronic aids or robust construction, leaving buyers wanting more reassurance here relative to the Altroz. Runner-up position overall on safety aspect.
Which car gets your vote?
The Exeter makes a strong case as an affordable, feature-packed and fuel-efficient urban runabout thanks to its compact dimensions, punchy drivetrain and Hyundai’s pedigree for everyday utility and reliability. For new drivers or small families who need a fast city car, it ticks many boxes.
On the other hand, the essence of driving pleasure is supreme in the Altroz thanks to its Euro-centric looks straight from the auto show floor, custom interior design, peppy turbo engine option and effortless dynamics. Not to mention class-leading passenger space and solid assurances of safety.
And for the value-conscious looking for peace of mind from an established name, the Swift stands out with its cheerful manners, thrifty K-series motor, sporty image spanning generations and competitive pricing, maximum bang for the buck, its Maintains its attractiveness and continues to attract buyers. Among the best selling hatchbacks in the country. One of the many trades, it caters to the needs of both first-time aspirants and senior citizens with its simple nature and Suzuki’s proven reliability record.
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