It comes as no surprise that Maruti Suzuki still rules the Indian market with its vast network, dependable engineering, and easy-to-maintain vehicles. This would include models such as the Alto K10, Wagon R, and Swift, and they are generally practical for a first-time car purchase.
If someone is looking for an affordable and compact hatchback that is precise and easy to drive in city traffic, the Alto K10 is the one. It has a zippy engine, delivers at a low running cost, and has a mileage of 24 kmpl. Plus, it is a wiser pick.
A tall-boy design makes the Wagon R easy to get in and out of, especially if you have elderly family members. Ideal for urban families, with plenty of cabin space and the reliable 1.0L and 1.2L petrol engines. A step up the pricing ladder, the Swift adds some performance and a stylish design to the equation, aimed more towards the youth.
Maruti Suzuki has the largest after-sales service network in India. It is cheap to keep, and you get a good deal on the lot’s selling price. If you are cash-strapped or want a hassle-free first car ownership experience, you cannot do better than Maruti Suzuki (also a top recommendation).
Hyundai buyers are drawn to fresh, new-age styling, contemporary comfort features, and a laid-back driving experience. The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is one of the best entry-level cars. It has more premium interiors than other cars in its segment and features like an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rear AC vents, and smoother engine.
The Hyundai Exter is another great new car for first-time buyers. The Exter is a new introduction in the micro SUV category, and it offers SUV stance, which is an ever-growing craving among target Indians, while retaining a compact and affordable size. It makes for a perfect combination of city commute, highway running, high ground clearance, safety, and good looks.
Build quality also feels generally good, and high levels of safety in the range, and an expanding service network are also things Hyundai offers. Hyundai has a couple of strong entries for buyers wanting high-tech features and style, but in a small package.
Over the last few years, Tata Motors has been much more aggressive about build quality and safety. If the buyer is a first-time buyer and looking for a car that is rugged yet safe, then it has got two good options from Tata – the Tiago and the Punch.
Stepping up a notch is the value-for-money Tata Tiago — boasting a salt of a 4-star Global NCAP score to boot. Thanks to its in-your-face looks, sturdy suspension, and a peppy 1.2L Revotron engine, it is a good choice for the city as well as the highway. Features like a touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, and adequate boot space are also part of the package.
Then there’s the Tata Punch, a micro-SUV that is all about its commanding road presence, tall stance, and generous ground clearance. If you’re one of those SUV lovers who is getting one for the first time and wants compact dimensions but also value-added safety, the Punch is an incredible option.
The aggressive pricing, a decent feature list, and the 5-star safety rating make it quite popular amongst young buyers and small families. Secondly, they have a growing resale market as well, especially in urban areas, since people know the value of Tata cars. Tata is a compelling package for the safety-first buyer.
Renault has established itself in India by providing well-equipped, distinctive cars at affordable prices. The Renault Kwid is still a decent pick as the first car for city folks. What you get is a stylish SUV-inspired look, digital instrument cluster, touchscreen infotainment, shrinky-dink dimensions perfect for novice drivers.
The Kwid is a compact hatchback (but with a roomy interior) powered by an efficient 1.0L engine. For students, working professionals, or even senior citizens looking for a no-hassle daily commute, this car is an attractive proposition due to its long range and low ownership cost.
Triber from Renault is also quirky. It costs a little more but gives you seven seats in a small package. We think the Triber is the most flexible car in its class for joint families or at least first-time buyers looking for flexibility. Well, it’s second at best, considering there’s nothing else really out there.
Renault may not have the biggest service network as compared to Maruti or Hyundai, but it is expanding at a consistent pace. Renault cars best suit the budget-conscious buyers who are looking for value-for-money cars without compromising on styling.
Though a new player in the Indian automotive sector, Kia has managed to woo buyers with fashionable-looking vehicles and premium features. Although the Kia Sonet and Kia Carens may get most of the attention, the Kia Picanto (which is due in India soon) or the base trims of the Sonet could be a better bet for new buyers.
Sonet is a bit pricier than entry-level stuff, but the Sonet offers SUV-like styling, a plush cabin loaded with features, and smooth turbo petrol and diesel engines. It is definitely worth the extra money over the Grand i10 Nios for the buyer with a little more budget to spare upfront who wishes to be satisfied in the long run.
Among the refined interiors, sharp looks, and tech-loaded dashboards of Kia’s chariots, the Rondo has now been surrounded by one “huge” question. It also has decent safety equipment in the mid to high variants. Kia provides solid options if you want your first car to feel premium and future-proof.
Although not a top choice for hatchbacks, Toyota rates highly for dependability, gas mileage, and longevity. Given its status as a rebadged Maruti Baleno, the Toyota Glanza is a terrific first car. Pasting the same heart & features of Baleno, it comes with Toyota’s extended warranty & service experience.
If peace of mind, low maintenance, and worry-free mileage down the road is your thing, then go with Toyota. The entry segment doesn’t offer a lot of options, though, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability remains a strong selling point.
Citroen may be a new name in India for the majority, but the carmaker is building momentum among first-time buyers with products like the Citroen C3. Infusing waspish Gallic design with roominess and suspension that leans toward the cushy end of the spectrum, the C3 is charmingly quirky. A turbo petrol option adds a performance aspect to its charm.
The C3 does offer a great appearance, and it places a greater emphasis on ride quality than competitive offerings, even if the feature list seems a tad modest for an entry-grade variant. Citroën provides a new perspective for those in search of something different enough to try a new brand.
At the moment, we’re working with a limited service network, but Citroën is racing to expand its coverage. Perfect for the stylish yet comfort-seeking car buyers, at a relatively entry-level price.
MG Comet EV, however, is worth a try if you plan to buy an electric car for the first time. The Comet EV is aimed at urban commuting with a range of around 230 km, and comes with modern features such as a dual-screen setup, connected car functions, and is compact and futuristic in UV style.
MG also offers a charging ecosystem and warranty packages. Despite its small size, the little EV delivers a modern-day motoring experience with low running costs for city-dwelling eco-warriors.
MG has a reasonable network of its own (growing) around Tier-1 and metro cities, but with dedicated EV support. The Comet right now is ideal for customers having home charging as well as short, predictable commutes.
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