Maruti has launched the third generation of the extremely popular Swift hatchback and, while it’s a lot more spacious and better equipped than before, it still retains its youthful and sporty character that’s associated with the brand.

The new Swift retains the 83hp 1.2-litre petrol and 75hp 1.3-litre diesel engine from the outgoing car, but what’s new is the option of automated manual transmissions (AMTs) alongside the manual ones available with both these engines. Plus, there are four trims (L, V, Z and Z+) for the manual and two (V and Z) for the AMTs, taking the total variants to 12. We help you simplify your choice and select the most appropriate variant for you.

Diesel or Petrol?
Maruti claims that the petrol engine returns a fuel efficiency of 22kpl and the diesel returns 28.4kpl, making both these engines very efficient to begin with. The difference in price between a petrol and diesel Swift (variant to variant) is exactly Rs 1 lakh, so unless your usage is exceptionally high, the petrol is the one to go for. It’s more refined, smooth to drive and rev-happy.

In terms of transmissions, if you commute through dense traffic, the AMT is actually a good option. The convenience that the Rs 47,000 premium (over the respective manual) brings is actually worth it and being an AMT there isn’t a fuel efficiency penalty. For the enthusiast, though, the manual gearbox is great and has slick shifts with short throws and a light clutch.

Choosing the right variant
The ‘L’ variant might attract customers to showrooms with its aggressive pricing. However, this variant is the least equipped and gets only the basics like a power steering and a manual air conditioner. Though what’s commendable is that safety kit like ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, front seat belt pre-tensioners and Isofix child seat mounts at the rear, are all standard equipment.

The ‘V’ variant is priced Rs 88,000 more than the ‘L’ and is a bit better equipped and gets features like remote central locking, electric mirror adjustment, a music system, steering-mounted controls, speed-sensing door locks, security alarm, side indicators on outside mirrors and some other features. However, it still doesn’t offer the most bang for the buck.

For Rs 62,000 over the ‘V’ and a steep Rs 1.50 lakh over the ‘L’ variant is the ‘Z’ variant, which is the variant that we’d recommend. Over the ‘V’ variant it gets automatic climate control, wider 185/65 tyres with 15-inch alloys, start-stop button/keyless entry, a rear wiper/washer and defogger, 60:40 split rear seat, front fog lamps, reverse parking sensors and electric folding mirrors. Yes, it’s a bit expensive but is worth the stretch over the ‘V’. Not only are there functional bits like auto climate control but the alloy wheels and fog lamps lend a premium look to the exteriors, and the crisp climate control display really lifts the cabin’s appeal.

The top ‘Z+’ variant is for you only if you can’t live without a touchscreen. There’s also a reversing camera, automatic LED projector headlamps and a different alloy wheel design, but at a huge premium of Rs 80,000 over the ‘Z’ variant.