What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Hyundai Verna and Skoda Slavia 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 Skoda Slavia – 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 car buyer primarily focuses on value for money, which translates to low purchase and running costs, fuel efficiency, reliability, and essential safety features. They prioritize practicality over luxury, seeking durable vehicles with low maintenance requirements.
Key aspects include good fuel economy, affordable pricing, necessary safety features like airbags and ABS, and cost-effective after-sales service. Overall, the aim is to find a car that meets basic needs without unnecessary extras that inflate the cost.
Why Hyundai Verna and Skoda Slavia are Popular
Hyundai Verna and Skoda Slavia are popular choices among budget-conscious buyers due to their blend of affordability, efficiency, and reliability.
Hyundai Verna, with its reputation for fuel efficiency and robust build quality, offers a reliable and cost-effective ownership experience. Its variants typically include essential safety features and reasonable comfort, making it an appealing choice for price-sensitive buyers.
Skoda Slavia, on the other hand, stands out with its strong build quality and spacious interiors. It offers a balance of performance and fuel economy, along with Skoda’s solid reputation for durability and low maintenance costs.
Both models provide a range of options allowing buyers to choose according to their budget and feature preferences.
Hyundai Verna and Skoda Slavia 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 Skoda Slavia, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 16 January 2024 |
| 1.0 TSI Active | ₹10,89,000 |
Hyundai Verna EX
The Hyundai Verna EX, priced at INR 10,96,000, is a well-rounded option offering essential safety features like six airbags and ABS. Its engine power of 113.18 BHP is adequate for daily use, and the manual seating adjustments cater to basic comfort needs, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. If you are looking for a family car, you can check out our comparison of the Verna with Honda City.
Hyundai Verna S
Hyundai Verna S, slightly pricier at INR 11,96,000, adds alloy wheels and rear AC vents to the mix, enhancing comfort for a slightly higher cost. The consistent engine power of 113.18 BHP ensures reliable performance, making it a suitable option for those willing to spend a little more for added convenience. If you’re a safety conscious car buyer, you can read our comparison of the Verna with Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Active
Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Active, the most affordable at INR 10,89,000, offers a competitive package with 2 airbags, ABS, and a marginally higher engine power of 113.98 BHP. Its turbocharged engine provides a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers looking for a bit more zest in their driving experience while remaining conscious of the budget. If you’re a gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Slavia with Kia Seltos 2023.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Hyundai Verna and Skoda Slavia for Budget-Conscious Buyers
The Hyundai Verna EX emerges as the best choice for budget-conscious buyers. Priced at INR 10,96,000, it offers a compelling mix of essential safety features, practical comfort, and sufficient engine power for daily commuting needs. The inclusion of six airbags and ABS emphasizes its focus on safety, which is a critical consideration for any buyer.
The Verna EX strikes an optimal balance between affordability and essential features, making it a standout choice in its segment. Its fuel efficiency and Hyundai’s reputation for reliable after-sales service add to its long-term value, ensuring lower maintenance costs over time.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Hyundai Verna EX
- Hyundai Verna S
- Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Active
| Attribute | Hyundai Verna EX | Hyundai Verna S | Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Active |
| Airbags | Yes (6) | Yes (6) | Yes (2) |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Steering | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Power (BHP) | 113.18 | 113.18 | 113.98 |
| Alloy Wheels | No | Yes | No |
| Rear AC Vents | No | Yes | No |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Hyundai Verna EX: As the best overall choice, it offers the highest number of airbags and essential features at a reasonable price, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
- Hyundai Verna S: For those who can extend their budget slightly, this variant provides additional comfort features like alloy wheels and rear AC vents, while maintaining the same engine performance as the EX variant.
- Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Active: This variant stands out for its slightly more powerful engine and turbocharged performance. It’s a suitable option for buyers who prioritize a more engaging driving experience while still adhering to a budget.
These three variants cater to various needs of a budget-conscious buyer. The Hyundai Verna EX is the best all-rounder, balancing cost and features. The Verna S offers more comfort for a slightly higher price. The Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI Active, while less equipped in terms of safety features, provides a more spirited drive.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.