The Maruti Suzuki Swift has been one of India’s most successful hatchbacks for over a decade. With more than 30 lakh units sold across four generations, the Swift enjoys massive brand trust, strong resale value, and impressive fuel efficiency. Its sporty design and easy drivability make it a favourite among first-time buyers and urban commuters.

That said, evolving buyer expectations have pushed many customers to explore alternatives. Concerns around safety perception, limited engine options, and the desire for more space or premium features have opened up several worthy choices in the same price range. If you’re planning to buy a Swift but want to look beyond it, here are the top five alternatives to the Maruti Suzuki Swift you should consider.

1. Maruti Suzuki Baleno - Bigger, More Feature-Loaded

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is the most logical alternative to the Swift. While it is priced roughly ₹50,000 higher, it offers a larger cabin, better rear-seat comfort, and a bigger boot, making it more practical for families.

One of its biggest advantages is the 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which feels smoother and more refined than the Swift’s three-cylinder motor. The Baleno also stands out with features such as a head-up display and a 360-degree camera, both of which are not available on the Swift.

Price: ₹6.70 lakh - ₹9.92 lakh 

Also consider: The Toyota Glanza, a rebadged Baleno that offers Toyota’s warranty, minor exterior styling tweaks, and a lighter interior theme.

2. Tata Tiago - Safety Comes First

For buyers who prioritise safety above everything else, the Tata Tiago is a strong contender. It comes with a 4-star Global NCAP safety rating, giving it an edge over the Swift in terms of crash protection and overall build quality.

The Tiago also offers features like rain-sensing wipers, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and a dual-cylinder CNG configuration. However, it must be noted that the Tiago does not offer six airbags, which the Swift now provides as standard.

Price: ₹5 lakh - ₹8.75 lakh 

3. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios - Refined and Well-Balanced

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios remains one of the Swift’s closest competitors. Despite being in the later stages of its lifecycle, it continues to match the Swift in terms of comfort, features, and daily usability.

It is powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that offers smooth performance and good refinement. The Grand i10 Nios also offers six airbags, a dual-tank CNG option, and is backed by Hyundai’s extensive after-sales service network.

Price: ₹5.98 lakh - ₹8.62 lakh 

4. Maruti Suzuki Ignis - Quirky, Compact, and Affordable

Often overlooked, the Maruti Suzuki Ignis offers a unique combination of hatchback affordability and crossover-like usability. Its compact dimensions and higher ground clearance make it ideal for city driving and rough roads alike.

Despite featuring a four-cylinder petrol engine, the Ignis is significantly cheaper than the Swift—by up to ₹1.37 lakh when comparing top-spec variants. While it misses out on newer features and six airbags, it covers the basics well and offers excellent value for money.

Price: ₹5.85 lakh - ₹8.26 lakh 

5. Hyundai i20 - Premium Hatchback Experience

If budget is not a major constraint, the Hyundai i20 offers a clear upgrade over the Swift. It provides a more premium cabin, superior rear-seat space, and a smoother four-cylinder petrol engine.

The i20 also offers a proper CVT automatic transmission, unlike the AMT units commonly found in this segment. While it costs around ₹1 lakh more than the Swift, the added comfort, refinement, and premium appeal justify the extra spend.

Price: ₹7.04 lakh - ₹11.25 lakh 

Tip: Buyers on a budget can also consider a certified pre-owned Hyundai i20 to enjoy a premium experience at a lower price point.

Comparison Table: Top Swift Alternatives

FAQs

Which is the best alternative to the Maruti Suzuki Swift?

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is the closest alternative, offering more space, a smoother engine, and better features.

Which Swift alternative is the safest?

The Tata Tiago stands out with its 4-star Global NCAP safety rating.

Is the Hyundai i20 worth paying extra over the Swift?

Yes, if you want a more premium cabin, better rear-seat comfort, and a refined driving experience.

Which is the most affordable alternative to the Swift?

The Tata Tiago and Maruti Suzuki Ignis are the most budget-friendly options.

Should I consider a used premium hatchback instead of a new Swift?

A certified pre-owned Hyundai i20 can be a smart option if you want premium features at a lower cost.