Spec Comparison: Maruti Suzuki Dzire automatic vs Tata Zest AMT

Maruti Suzuki has launched the diesel version of the Swift Dzire sedan with Auto Gear Shift technology (AMT) for Rs 8.39 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The Dzire is only the second in the compact-sedan segment to offer AMT with the diesel, after the Tata Zest. Here is a spec comparison of the two, giving a perspective on what each of them have to offer.

Dimensions

There is hardly anything to choose between the two in terms of dimensions. Both are sub-four metre sedans with length of 3995mm. The Zest, however, seems a little bigger, since it is marginally wider and taller than the Maruti sedan. Also, Tata has managed to pack more space in the boot – the Zest offers 390litre boot compared to the 320litre of the Dzire.   

Equipment

At the top-end, both the Dzire and the Zest offer decent features. The Dzire gets engine start-top function, electrically retractable mirrors and a music system with Bluetooth telephony. The Zest misses out on the keyless start function, but gets projector headlamps and advanced Harman music system with eight speakers. Also the basic safety features like two airbags and ABS-EBD are available in both the compact sedans. 

Tata offers the Zest in XMA variant as well, which gets ABS-EBD but misses out on airbags and also the touch-screen music system from the top-end.

Engine 

Both the cars use the 1.3-litre Mulitijet diesel engine sourced from Fiat. While the one in the Swift Dzire has a fixed geometry turbo that helps in putting out 74bhp and 190Nm, the Zest has a Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) that aids in delivering 89bhp and 200Nm. However, the higher performance does affect the fuel efficiency, the ARAI rating of the Zest is 23kmpl, while the Dzire is rated at 26.59kmpl. 

Both the cars use the five-speed AMT transmission powering the front-wheels, with the option of manually shifting gears.

Price

Maruti Suzuki has priced the Swift Dzire ZDi AMT at Rs 8.39 lakh, which is Rs 24,000 more than the top-end Tata Zest XTA priced at Rs 8.15 lakh. Also, Tata offers the AMT transmission with the second to top, XMA variant, priced at Rs 7.33 lakh.