You're in luck if you're exploring options similar to the Renault Kwid. This popular hatchback has several competitors that offer comparable features, performance, and value.
We take a look at the top five alternatives to the Kwid, ensuring you have a range of choices to consider for your next purchase. Whether you prioritise fuel efficiency, interior space, or technology, these models may fit the bill.
1. Suzuki S-Presso (from R178 900)
The 1.0-litre, naturally aspirated S-Presso (with 49kW/89Nm), was updated in December 2022. It may look small, but Suzuki has made good use of the available space with a relatively roomy interior for small families who are on a shoestring budget; however, the safety kit has been update,d and the S-Presso now contains the following:
- Hill-start assist
- ESP (new)
- ISOFIX child anchors
- Two airbags
- Electric mirror controls
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- ABS
- Steering wheel controls
- Parking sensors
- Rear-view camera (S-Edition)
- Electric windows in front
The Indian-built S-Presso is surprisingly good on dirt roads and won't flinch at our poor road surfaces. Plus - that fuel consumption! You'll save a bunch on petrol.
Read our launch report of the latest (2023) Suzuki S-Presso here.
2. Suzuki Celerio (from R210 900)
Another Suzuki makes this list, as the brand focuses on those who must turn over our pennies multiple times.
The current-generation Celerio (with the same engine and power figures as the S-Presso mentioned above) launched in 2022 with a completely revamped interior and plenty of new safety kit. Please read our latest Celerio launch review here.
Features across the board include:
- ABS
- ESP
- 2 Airbags
- steering wheel controls
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Child lock
- electric windows front and rear
- electric mirrors
- Isofix
- front fog lamps
- Rear-park distance control
It excels at city driving and features a very spacious cabin for this price range, making it the perfect little commuter or student car. And, just like all Suzukis, it's a light sipper. Our top choice? As long as it's manual, it's good.
Each Celerio is sold with a 5-year/200 000km warranty and a 2-year/30 000km service plan.
Related: Toyota Vitz vs Suzuki Celerio vs Renault Kwid - running cost comparison
2. Toyota Vitz (from R189 900)
The Celerio and Vitz share the number-two-spot because they're almost the same car:
Suzuki and Toyota joined forces a few years ago, making the most of these respective brands’ talents; Suzuki shines at building cheap, high-quality cars, and Toyota is great at tech such as safety systems, electrification (not relevant in the Vitz, though), and telematics, and the brand is synonymous with reliability. Putting these two brands together results in the best of both: safe, reliable cars that are easy on the pocket and light on fuel. - 2024 Toyota Vitz Review
So, if your town or city doesn't have a Suzuki dealership, do not fear - you'll find a Toyota nearby. Just bear in mind that the Vitz is a wee bit more expensive. We prefer the manual models.
Pricing for the Vitz includes a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 2-service/30,000km service plan. If you don't want to buy, use the KINTO ONE car subscription package.
3. Suzuki Swift (from R219 900)
The new 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Swift (with 60kW and 112Nm) is our favourite on this list by far! It's good-looking, an enjoyable ride, safe, and full of features - plus, it doesn't look or feel budget-orientated. Read our latest Suzuk Swift review here.
Features in the base model include:
- ABS
- Hill-start assist
- stability control
- 6 airbags!
- Trip computer
- electric windows front and rear
- Isofix
- Rear parking sensors
If you opt for the higher-spec GL+ model, you get loads more convenience features, especially in the infotainment department, so that's the model we'd pick. In manual guise, of course.
4. Hyundai Grand i10 (from R224 900)
Hyundai discontinued the Atos sadly, but updated the Grand i10 in 2023 and added a Grand i10 sedan to the lineup as well. You have a choice between naturally aspirated 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre models, each offering 49kW/94Nm and 61kW /114Nm, respectively.
In terms of specification, there is a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality as standard across the range, as is air-conditioning, dual-front airbags, front and rear USB charging points (Type A & C) as well as rear PDC with a reverse camera, among others. The flagship Fluid variants get front fog lamps, automatic lights, daytime running lights, heated/folding side mirrors, cruise control and artificial leather covering the steering wheel. - Sean Nurse, 2023 Hyundai Grand i10 launch report
As before, the Grand i10 offers good build quality, an array of specs, and that 7-year drivetrain warranty, but if you can stretch to a 1.2-litre (manual) model, you'll appreciate the extra power and have a lot more fun.
5. Kia Picanto (from R260 995)
The Kia Picanto is a fabulous little car, albeit a pricey one. The range starts at R260 995, but the good news is that even in entry-level trim, it's brilliant to drive and comes well-equipped, too. Read our Kia Picanto launch review here.
The Picanto range also offers 1.0 and 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engines, just like its cousin, the Hyundai Grand i10, above. Watch our video review of the Kia Picanto.
Base model features include:
- ABS and EBD
- Two airbags
- Isofix on the outer rear seats
- Electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors
- Remote central locking with alarm and immobilizer
- Child locks
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto and rearview camera
- Keyless entry
- Height-adjustable driver's seat
- Leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel (adjustable for rake)
- 60/40 split rear seats
- Electric windows
- Four speakers
What else should you consider?
