Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara vs Skoda Kushaq: 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 Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Skoda Kushaq to compare their variants for budget-conscious buyers. 

In this article, we will discuss

• What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara vs Skoda Kushaq – 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 SUVs? 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

Budget-conscious buyers prioritize value for money, seeking vehicles that offer a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, reliability, and essential features. They look for cars with low maintenance costs, decent fuel economy, and durable build quality.

Safety features like airbags and ABS are also crucial, along with basic comfort and convenience elements such as power steering and air conditioning. Overall, these buyers seek a vehicle that fulfills their needs without unnecessary frills, ensuring a cost-effective and practical ownership experience.

Why Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Skoda Kushaq are Popular

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Skoda Kushaq have become popular choices for budget-conscious buyers due to their unique blend of features, affordability, and brand reliability. 

The Grand Vitara, known for its fuel efficiency and Maruti’s extensive service network, offers a cost-effective ownership experience. It combines practicality with sufficient comfort features and has a reputation for low maintenance costs. 

On the other hand, the Skoda Kushaq stands out with its robust build quality, European design, and efficient performance. Its turbocharged engine options provide a balance between power and fuel economy. 

Both SUVs offer essential safety features and modern amenities, making them attractive options in the budget SUV segment.

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Skoda Kushaq Variants Shortlist in Rs 10-12 Lakh Range

For Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 16 January 2024
Sigma	₹10,70,000

For Skoda Kushaq, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 16 January 2024
1.0 TSI Active	₹10,89,000

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma, priced at INR 10,70,000, is a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers. It offers essential safety features such as 2 airbags and ABS. With a fuel-efficient engine of 101.64 BHP and a comfortable interior, it represents an ideal blend of affordability and functionality. If you’re a gadget enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the Grand Vitara with Hyundai Verna.

Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Active

The Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Active, slightly higher in price at INR 10,89,000, provides a turbocharged engine with 113.98 BHP, offering a more spirited driving experience. It maintains essential safety features and adds European styling and robust build quality, appealing to those who value performance along with budget considerations. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the Kushaq with Mahindra XUV700.

Our Pick for the Best Variant among Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Skoda Kushaq for Budget-Conscious Buyers

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma emerges as the best choice for budget-conscious buyers. Its slightly lower price point, combined with Maruti’s reputation for reliability and cost-effective maintenance, makes it a practical and economical choice. 

The Grand Vitara Sigma offers essential safety features and a fuel-efficient engine, which is critical for keeping long-term costs low. Additionally, Maruti’s widespread service network ensures easy and affordable maintenance, adding to the vehicle’s overall value proposition.

The 2 Variants Compared

Attribute	Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma	Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Active
Airbags	Yes (2)	Yes (2)
ABS	Yes	Yes
Engine Power (BHP)	101.64	113.98
Price (INR)	10,70,000	10,89,000
Fuel Efficiency	High (21.11 kmpl)	Moderate (19.2 kmpl)
Turbocharging	No	Yes

How to Pick the Right Car for You

1. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma: Best for overall value, combining affordability with essential features and a trusted brand reputation.
2. Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Active: Close second for those who prioritize a more engaging driving experience and robust build quality at a slightly higher price point.

Both the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma and Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Active offer distinct advantages for budget-conscious buyers. Both vehicles provide essential safety features and cater well to the needs of budget-conscious buyers looking for an SUV that balances cost, performance, and practicality.

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