As auto manufacturers eye the younger potential car buying lot, a new category of hatchback crossovers is catching the fancy of many. Mahindra launched the micro SUV themed KUV100 a while ago which now faces stiff competition from the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Ignis. Both the cars offer loads of practicality and features that will lure the younger lot. Below is a brief comparison of two models that will soon emerge as strong competitors in the Indian market.
In terms of design, the Mahindra KUV100 features an SUV-like stance. It gets bold and sharp contours which is aimed at appealing the youth. The front sports XUV500 inspired vertically stacked grille. As for dimensions, the KUV100 measures 3,675mm in length, 1,705mm in width and 1,635mm in height. The KUV100 has a wheelbase of 2,385mm. The Maruti Suzuki Ignis on the other hand gets a more upright design with large headlamps that neatly connects with the grille. In terms of dimensions, the Ignis measures 3,700mm in length, is 1,660mm wide and has a height of 1,595mm. The Ignis gets a wheelbase measuring 2,435mm. Between the two, the KUV100 fairs better in terms of headroom and seats three passengers comfortably at the back due to a wider body. The Ignis on the other hand is slightly longer thereby offers better space to occupants and also has better ground clearance figures to handle Indian conditions better.
Under the hood, the Mahindra KUV100 is available in petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol version is powered by a 1.2-litre engine which generates 81bhp of power, while the diesel is powered by a 1.2-litre engine which generates 76bhp of power. The yet to launch Maruti Suzuki Ignis will also be offered with a 1.2-litre K-series petrol engine, while the diesel will get a Fiat sourced 1.3-litre engine. Five speed manual transmission comes as standard on both the cars. However, Maruti might introduce an AMT option for the Ignis.
As for the interior, the Mahindra’s KUV100 nails it with a six-seat layout unlike the Ignis which will come with a five-seat layout pattern. The former gets cooled glove box, sun glass holder, infotainment system with 4 speakers, two power modes- Eco and Power and all four power window system. The vehicle gets ABS and EBD as standard, while airbag is optional. The Ignis from Maruti Suzuki will be sold via the company’s premium Nexa outlets, hence we can expect to see front airbags and ABS with EBD as standard on the upcoming vehicle. Moreover, depending on the variant the Ignis will be loaded with features like 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB, and AUX. Additionally, it will also offer automatic climate control and reverse parking sensors with camera.
The competition between the two vehicles will be tough. The KUV100 from Mahindra is a good choice at the price point at which it is offered. However, the Ignis will come with loads of features and creaturely comforts for those who do not mind shelling out a little extra, as it will be offered as premium model from Maruti Suzuki. Backed by Suzuki’s tried and tested refined engine layout, the Ignis surely scores a few extra brownie points but only post its official launch the customer inclination towards both the vehicles will be known.
