KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Maruti S-Presso starts at Rs. 3.50 lakh, India's most affordable car.
- Renault Kwid features SUV-inspired styling and feature-rich cabin.
- S-Presso offers bold micro-SUV design with tall-boy proportions.
- Both cars have similar 1.0L engines, S-Presso more responsive.
- S-Presso provides better value for budget-focused buyers overall.
GST 2.0 Effect: The entry-level car segment in India has always been about balancing affordability with practicality. Two most affordable names that stand out in this segment are the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso and the Renault Kwid. With the arrival of GST 2.0, the S-Presso has reclaimed the spotlight by becoming India's most affordable car, now starting at just Rs. 3.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, the Renault Kwid continues to attract buyers with its SUV-inspired styling and feature-rich cabin.
But which one should you choose in 2025 or which one's a better deal for you below, but before that, make sure that you join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
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Design & Road Presence
The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso has always stood out with its bold, upright stance that resembles a micro-SUV more than a hatchback. Its tall-boy proportions, chunky wheel arches and upright grille give it a quirky look that appeals to buyers seeking something different.
On the other hand, the Renault Kwid leans more towards sleek and stylish design. With LED DRLs, sculpted bumpers and a flowing silhouette, it manages to look modern and youthful while still keeping the SUV-inspired charm. While the S-Presso plays to the "tough and tall" image, the Kwid is the better-looking car in terms of mass appeal.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the S-Presso is powered by Marutis tried-and-tested 1.0L K-Series petrol engine producing 67 PS and 89 Nm. It is available with both a 5-speed manual and an AMT gearbox, making it easy to live with in the city. Known for refinement and efficiency, the engine feels peppy enough for daily commutes while offering excellent mileage.
The Renault Kwid also gets a 1.0L petrol motor with 68 PS and 91 Nm, paired with manual and AMT options. While performance levels are very similar, the Kwid's engine feels slightly less refined at higher speeds. The S-Presso, with Marutis tuning and lighter kerb weight, feels a bit more responsive in stop-go traffic, which is a plus for urban buyers.
Features & Practicality
In terms of equipment, the Renault Kwid makes a stronger case. It gets an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a reverse parking camera, rear power windows, and a more premium-looking digital instrument console. The S-Presso, while equipped with essentials like a SmartPlay Studio system, digital cluster, and steering-mounted controls, feels more basic compared to the Kwid's feature set.
However, practicality tilts slightly in favor of the S-Presso. Its high seating position offers excellent visibility, and ingress-egress is easier thanks to its tall-boy stance. The Kwid feels sportier but sacrifices some ease of use, especially for taller passengers.
Space & Comfort
The S-Presso's design benefits passengers when it comes to headroom and ease of entry. Tall drivers and rear passengers find it more accommodating, though rear legroom is just adequate rather than spacious. The rear bench is best suited for two adults rather than three.
The Renault Kwid, on the other hand, has a more conventional hatchback cabin. While stylish, it feels slightly tighter, particularly in rear headroom. Its boot space, however, is larger than the S-Presso, making it a better option for those who prioritize luggage-carrying capacity.
Safety
Both cars come with the mandatory safety features such as dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and seatbelt reminders. While both have faced criticism for their poor Global NCAP crash test ratings, buyers at this price point prioritize affordability and running costs over advanced safety tech. Between the two, there isn't a significant difference in safety equipment, though Renault does offer features like a rear-view camera that adds some convenience.
Value for Money
Heres where the GST 2.0 effect makes a huge difference. With the S-Presso now priced from Rs. 3.50 lakh (ex-showroom), it undercuts not just the Kwid but almost every other car in India. The Kwid, starting from around Rs. 4.6 lakh, does justify its higher price with more features and a more stylish cabin. However, when you factor in Maruti's wider service network, lower running costs, and higher fuel efficiency, the S-Presso edges out as the more value-for-money choice for budget-focused buyers.
Which One You Should Buy
If you are buying your first car, want maximum affordability, or prioritize ease of driving, low maintenance, and fuel savings, the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is the clear winner. Its new Rs. 3.50 lakh price tag makes it the most accessible entry into four-wheel ownership, especially for families upgrading from two-wheelers.
On the other hand, if your budget stretches higher and you want your car to look and feel more premium, the Renault Kwid makes sense. It offers better features, a richer cabin experience, and sharper styling.
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Verdict
In short:
Buy the S-Presso for practicality, value, and efficiency.
Buy the Kwid for style, features, and a premium feel.
Either way, both cars prove that even budget buyers in 2025 don't have to compromise on SUV-inspired character.
