Hyundai Verna vs Honda City: A Comparison of Their Variants Priced Rs 10-12 Lakh for Budget-conscious Car Buyers

What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Hyundai Verna and Honda City to compare their variants for budget-conscious buyers. 

In this article, we will discuss

• What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
• Hyundai Verna vs Honda City – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
• How to pick the right car for you

So, can these cars be considered the best budget mid-size sedans? What affordable car options do they have in their lineup? Read on.

What a Budget-conscious Buyer Looks for in a Car

A budget-conscious buyer should look for these in a car:

• Affordability – a car should be affordable, and have low maintenance costs
• Fuel efficiency – The car shouldn’t guzzle fuel
• Safety features – Essential safety features are a must in a car
• Brand perception – Is the brand of the car known for its wide service network, after sales service, etc.
• Resale value – The car should fetch good resale rates

A budget-conscious buyer primarily seeks value for money. This includes competitive pricing, fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and longevity. Essential features like airbags, ABS, and power steering are non-negotiable for safety and convenience. 

Preferences lean towards reliable engine performance and modest comfort features without unnecessary extravagances. Fuel types like petrol or diesel are chosen based on usage patterns and fuel economy. Overall, the focus is on practicality and cost-effectiveness over luxury and high-end technology.

Why Hyundai Verna and Honda City are Popular

Hyundai Verna and Honda City have carved their niches in the budget-conscious market. Both models offer a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and essential features that appeal to cost-sensitive consumers. 

Hyundai Verna, known for its robust engine performance and fuel economy, also offers a comfortable ride with necessary safety features like airbags and ABS. Honda City counters with its reputation for durability, low maintenance costs, and a strong resale value, making it a financially sound investment. 

Both cars present a range of variants, allowing buyers to choose according to their specific needs and budgets. Additionally, their modern designs and adequate technological inclusions, such as power windows and air conditioning, ensure a comfortable driving experience without breaking the bank.

Hyundai Verna and Honda City Variants Shortlist in Rs 10-12 Lakh Range

For Hyundai Verna, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 16 January 2024
EX	₹10,96,000
S	₹11,96,000

For Honda City, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 16 January 2024
SV	₹11,49,000

Hyundai Verna EX

The Hyundai Verna EX, priced at INR 10,96,000, stands out for its balance of safety and comfort. It offers six airbags and ABS, a clear indication of its commitment to safety. The manual seating adjustments and a modest 113.18 BHP engine make it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize essential features over luxury. If you’re safety-conscious, you can check out our comparison of the Verna with Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

Hyundai Verna S

In contrast, the Hyundai Verna S variant, although slightly higher priced at INR 11,96,000, offers additional comforts such as alloy wheels, rear AC vents, and glove box cooling. These features provide a more comfortable ride without significantly increasing the cost, making it an attractive option for those who can stretch their budget slightly for added comfort. If you’re looking for a family car, you can read our comparison of the Verna with Maruti Suzuki XL6.

Honda City SV

The Honda City SV, positioned at INR 11,49,000, is a strong contender with its focus on fundamental features like four airbags and ABS, ensuring safety. The engine power of 119.35 BHP is slightly higher than the Verna variants, offering a bit more in terms of performance. Honda’s reputation for reliability and resale value adds to the appeal, making it a wise choice for long-term savings. If you’re a gadget enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the City with Toyota Rumion.

Our Pick for the Best Variant among Hyundai Verna and Honda City for Budget-Conscious Buyers

Considering the balance between price, features, and overall value, the Hyundai Verna EX emerges as the best option for a budget-conscious buyer. Priced at INR 10,96,000, it is the most affordable among the variants discussed. 

The inclusion of six airbags and ABS highlights a strong commitment to safety, which is a critical factor for any buyer. The engine power of 113.18 BHP, while not the highest, is sufficiently robust for daily commuting and occasional long drives. 

The manual seating adjustments and other standard features like power steering and windows offer necessary comfort without inflating the cost. Its fuel efficiency and Hyundai’s reputation for reliable after-sales service further add to its appeal as a cost-effective choice.

The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference

1. Hyundai Verna EX
2. Hyundai Verna S
3. Honda City SV

Attribute	Hyundai Verna EX	Hyundai Verna S	Honda City SV
Airbags	Yes (6)	Yes (6)	Yes (4)
ABS	Yes	Yes	Yes
Power Steering	Yes	Yes	Yes
Engine Power (BHP)	113.18	113.18	119.35
Alloy Wheels	No	Yes	No
Rear AC Vents	No	Yes	Yes

How to Pick the Right Car for You

• Hyundai Verna EX: As previously mentioned, its balance of safety, performance, and affordability makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers.
• Hyundai Verna S: For those who can slightly extend their budget, this variant offers additional comforts like alloy wheels and rear AC vents, enhancing the driving experience without a significant price hike.
• Honda City SV: This variant stands out for its slightly more powerful engine and Honda’s renowned durability. It’s a viable option for buyers who prioritize long-term value and brand reliability.

These three variants cater to different aspects of what a budget-conscious buyer might look for: optimal safety and affordability in the Verna EX, additional comfort features in the Verna S, and long-term reliability and performance in the Honda City SV. 

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.