Buying a car for the first time, but confused about which are the best, or top cars for first-time buyers in India, and which option to choose? Let’s look at the Honda Elevate and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and find out which of their variants will be the best for you.
In this first-time car buyers’ guide, we will share
- What a first-time buyer should look for in a car
- Honda Elevate vs Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara – an in-depth guide to their variants, features, cost, and driveability
- How to pick the right car for you
So, are these affordable cars for first-time buyers in India? And which variant of these models is the right car for a first-time car buyer? Let’s find out.
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
What a First-time Car Buyer Looks for in a Car
This is what a first-time buyer should look for in a car:
- Safety – What safety features does the car have? What is its safety rating?
- Affordability – The car should be well within budget and affordable.
- Fuel efficiency – The car should have good fuel efficiency, thereby reducing its running cost.
- Ease of driving – The car should be easy to drive, with features that help in driving and offer convenience for new drivers.
First-time car buyers usually seek vehicles that are reliable, affordable, and easy to handle. Key considerations include the cost of ownership, including fuel efficiency and maintenance expenses.
Safety features are paramount, providing confidence and security on the road. Convenience features like an automatic transmission, easy-to-use infotainment systems, and comfortable seating are also important.
A compact design for ease of maneuverability and parking, especially in urban areas, is often a priority. First-time buyers also appreciate cars with a modern aesthetic and technology that integrates seamlessly with their lifestyle.
Why Honda Elevate and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara are Popular
The Honda Elevate has gained popularity among first-time buyers due to its reliability and excellent build quality. Known for its smooth CVT transmission, the Elevate offers a comfortable and hassle-free driving experience.
Its efficient fuel consumption and comprehensive safety features, such as ABS and airbags, make it a practical choice. The modern design and spacious interior add to its appeal for younger buyers.
The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is favored for its blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and robust safety features. Its torque converter automatic transmission is well-suited for new drivers. The Grand Vitara stands out with its spacious cabin, user-friendly infotainment system, and high fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective option. Maruti’s widespread service network also ensures ease of maintenance.
Both cars offer a comfortable ride and come equipped with features that cater to the needs and preferences of first-time car buyers, making them popular choices in this segment.
Honda Elevate and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Variants Shortlist in Rs 13-15 Lakh Range
For Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 28 November 2023 |
| Delta AT | ₹1,360,000 |
For Honda Elevate, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 28 November 2023 |
| V CVT | ₹1,321,000 |
| VX CVT | ₹1,460,000 |
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Delta AT
This variant is an attractive choice for first-time buyers due to its competitive pricing and the inclusion of essential features like rear parking sensors, a user-friendly touchscreen, and robust safety features. Its torque converter automatic transmission is known for smooth gear shifts, enhancing the ease of driving. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Grand Vitara with MG Astor.
Honda Elevate V CVT
The Elevate V CVT stands out for its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which offers a seamless driving experience. It is priced attractively and comes equipped with features like LED headlights, a comprehensive safety package, and a spacious interior, making it a value-for-money option for new drivers. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the Elevate with Volkswagen Taigun.
Honda Elevate VX CVT
As the higher-end variant, the Elevate VX CVT includes additional features such as alloy wheels and an advanced infotainment system. While it is the priciest among the options, it provides a more premium experience with enhanced comfort and technology features.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Honda Elevate and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara for First-time Car Buyers
The Honda Elevate V CVT emerges as the best variant for first-time car buyers. Its price point is highly competitive, offering great value for money. The CVT transmission ensures a smooth and stress-free driving experience, which is crucial for new drivers. Safety features like airbags and ABS, along with a high ground clearance, provide added confidence on the road.
The Elevate V CVT also scores high on fuel efficiency, reducing long-term ownership costs. Its modern design, comfortable interiors, and practical technology features like the user-friendly touchscreen make it a well-rounded choice for first-time buyers.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Honda Elevate V CVT
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Delta AT
- Honda Elevate VX CVT
| Attribute | Honda Elevate V CVT | Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Delta AT | Honda Elevate VX CVT |
| Price (INR) | 1,321,000 | 1,360,000 | 1,460,000 |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Torque Converter | CVT |
| Safety Features | Comprehensive | Basic | Comprehensive |
| Infotainment System | Standard | Standard | Advanced |
| Interior Comfort | High | Moderate | High |
| Fuel Efficiency (kmpl) | 16.92 | 20.58 | 16.92 |
| LED Headlights | Yes | No | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Honda Elevate V CVT is the top choice for its balance of affordability, ease of use, and comprehensive safety features.
- The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Delta AT, with its high fuel efficiency and reliable performance, is an excellent option for those prioritizing economical driving. We have also compared the Grand Vitara with Hyundai Creta for long-distance road trip lovers.
- The Honda Elevate VX CVT offers a more premium experience with advanced features and comfort, suitable for buyers looking for a higher-end feel.
For first-time car buyers, these three variants provide a mix of affordability, safety, convenience, and modern technology. The Honda Elevate V CVT stands out as the best overall choice for its well-rounded features and value, while the Grand Vitara and Elevate VX CVT cater to specific preferences around economy and luxury, respectively. Each of these cars offers a solid foundation for new drivers to comfortably and confidently navigate their driving journey.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered
