Head to Head

Finding a good subcompact sedan is never easy--unless you know where and what to look at. In this week's Head-to-Head, we have two of the most outstanding models in their segment. We're talking about none other than the Suzuki Swift GLX CVT and the Toyota Vios E-CVT. Watch this.

Let's start by checking what's under the hood of the Suzuki Swift GLX CVT and the Toyota Vios E-CVT.

The Suzuki Swift is powered by a 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 82 horsepower and 113 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Toyota Vios runs on a 1.3-liter four-cylinder dual VVT-i gasoline engine that produces 98 horsepower and 123 Nm of torque. For the two cars' transmission, both of their engines are coupled with a Continuously Variable Transmission.

After the oily bits, it's time to check out the exterior and interior designs of the two cars.

Talking about the exteriors and the general look of the Suzuki Swift, it has a familiar appearance and styling. The front fascia comes with a huge hexagonal-style grill that carries the headlights with LED daytime running lights, and foglights. The GLX also has diamond-cut alloy wheels which complements the sporting character of the hatchback.

Meanwhile, with just one look, one can easily tell that the design of the Toyota Vios is sharp and bold. It's highlighted by the four-beam halogen headlights in place of LEDs, bulb-type taillights, fender-integrated turn signals, body-colored door handles, and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Inside the Swift, the seats are wrapped in black fabric, while the steering wheel is wrapped in leather. This makes the interior of the Swift as sporty as its exterior. The driver's seat is adjustable, so there's no problem finding a comfortable driving position.

For the crowning glory of the Swift, which is the infotainment system, it comes with an 8-inch touchscreen. Navigating is smooth due to the well-calibrated interface of the touchscreen. It comes with AM/FM radio, and is available through Bluetooth, Auxiliary and USB connectivity. Sound is enjoyable as well, thanks to the 6 speakers that come with the infotainment system.

Now, the modern feel of the exterior design of the Vios is continued onto the interiors. Our variant here gets fabric-upholstered seats, and it is among the few trims that get the leather-wrapped steering wheel, push-button engine start/stop, speed sensing door locks, and automatic climate control.

When it comes to its infotainment system, it comes equipped with a 7-inch touch screen head unit with Weblink, AUX, and MP3 connectivity. Audio is courtesy of 4 speakers, 2 speakers less than of the Swift GLX's.

For safety and security, which is the top priorities in any car, both the Suzuki Swift and Toyota Vios come with the needed features. Both of them are equipped with Anti-Lock Brake System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Traction and Stability Control, Parking Sensors with camera, as well as Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, and 6 airbags.

That's it for our Head-to-Head this week, the Suzuki Swift GLX CVT and the Toyota Vios E-CVT-two cars that stand out in their own unique ways.