Confused about which are the best, or top compact SUVs for first-time buyers in India? Let us help you decide which option among them to choose, especially if you have a set budget. We look at the Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Mahindra XUV 3XO, and find out which of their entry-level 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
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza vs Mahindra XUV 3XO – an in-depth guide to their entry-level variants, features, cost, and driveability
- How to pick the right car for you
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
A first-time car buyer usually prioritizes affordability, reliability, safety, and low running costs. They want a vehicle that provides good value, with necessary features like air conditioning, power steering, and a decent audio system. Easy maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance are also important factors. Brand reputation and after-sales service also influence the decision, with many preferring established brands.
Why the Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Mahindra XUV 3XO Are Popular
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Mahindra XUV 3XO (XUV300 2024) are two strong contenders in the compact SUV segment, especially for first-time buyers. Both offer stylish designs, well-equipped interiors, and efficient engines at attractive price points.
Maruti’s Brezza has been a top seller since its 2016 launch. The 2024 model gets a bold makeover with muscular SUV styling, an upgraded cabin, and added features. The fuel-efficient 1.5L petrol engine with smart hybrid tech and Maruti’s wide service network add to its appeal for first-timers.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO has carved a niche for itself with its funky styling, spacious interiors, and extensive safety kit. For 2024, it gains connected car tech and new features. The punchy 1.2L turbo-petrol and 1.5L diesel engines offer a great mix of performance and efficiency.
Both models offer multiple variants to suit different budgets and needs. Maruti’s unmatched brand trust and Mahindra’s focus on safety reassure first-time buyers. With their youthful design, rich equipment, and competitive pricing, the Brezza and XUV300 make compelling options for first-time buyers entering the booming compact SUV space.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Mahindra XUV 3XO Entry-level Variants
For Maruti Suzuki Brezza, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 14 May 2024 |
| LXi | ₹8.34 lakh |
| VXi | ₹9.69 lakh |
For Mahindra XUV 3XO, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 14 May 2024 |
| MX1 | ₹7.49 lakh |
| MX2 Pro | ₹8.99 lakh |
| MX3 | ₹9.49 lakh |
| MX2 Pro AT | ₹9.99 lakh |
Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi
The Maruti Brezza LXi, starting at Rs. 8.34 lakh, covers the basics with manual AC, power steering, all power windows, and a double-din audio system. Crucially, it packs in important safety features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors, prioritizing occupant protection.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi
Rs. 9.69 lakh gets you the Brezza VXi, which adds a 7-inch touchscreen, push-button start/stop, auto AC, and steering-mounted controls to the LXi’s equipment list. These are notable upgrades that many first-time buyers will appreciate, although at a significant cost increment.
Mahindra XUV 3XO MX1
Mahindra XUV 3XO MX1, priced at Rs. 7.49 lakh, is the range starter. While it forgoes some comfort features, it still offers essentials like power windows, power steering, manual AC, and a 17-inch steel wheels, making it a value-rich choice for first-time buyers on a budget.
Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro
At Rs. 8.99 lakh, the XUV 3XO MX2 Pro adds a 4.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 4 speakers, steering-mounted audio controls, and rear AC vents over the MX1, offering more creature comforts while still being wallet-friendly.
Mahindra XUV 3XO MX3
The XUV 3XO MX3, at Rs. 9.49 lakh, is the pick of the range. Its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, and auto headlamps justify the premium over the lower variants for first-time buyers looking to upgrade their drive experience.
Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro AT
At Rs. 9.99 lakh, the XUV 3XO MX2 Pro AT is geared towards first-time buyers who want the convenience of an automatic transmission. It shares most of its features with the MX2 Pro manual variant.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among the Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Mahindra XUV 3XO for First-Time Buyers
Considering the specific needs and constraints of first-time car buyers, we recommend the Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro as the top pick in this comparison. Priced at an attractive Rs. 8.99 lakh, it offers the best balance of features, safety kit, and value.
The XUV 3XO MX2 Pro’s 1.2L turbo-petrol engine puts out a healthy 110PS and 200Nm, while delivering an ARAI-rated mileage of 18.89 kmpl, ideal for both city commutes and highway runs. Despite being a mid-spec variant, it doesn’t skimp on safety, offering 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and Electronic Stability Program (ESP). It also gets a rear camera and Hill Start Assist.
The 4.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with steering-mounted controls, manual AC, all four power windows, remote keyless entry, and rear AC vents cover the basics for first-time buyers. The cost savings on a larger touchscreen are significant for this budget-conscious buyer group.
In contrast, the base Brezza LXi costs almost Rs. 85,000 less but misses out on several feel-good features like the touchscreen, rear camera, and rear AC vents. The Brezza VXi and XUV 3XO MX3 offer more wow factor with their larger touchscreens and premium features, but come at a steep price increment that many first-time buyers may not be able to stretch to.
With Mahindra’s focus on safety and the XUV 3XO’s 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, the XUV 3XO MX2 Pro is a safe, well-equipped, and well-priced choice that won’t break the bank, making it our top recommendation for first-time compact SUV buyers.
The Top 3 Choices
- Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi
- Mahindra XUV 3XO MX1
| Feature | Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro | Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi | Mahindra XUV 3XO MX1 |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Steering | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Manual AC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen Infotainment | Yes (4-inch) | Yes (7-inch) | No |
| Dual Airbags | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro: The reasons why this is our top pick have been mentioned above.
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi: While pricier than the XUV 3XO MX2 Pro, the Brezza VXi justifies its premium with Maruti’s strong brand reputation, low running costs, and unmatched service reach. Its proven 1.5L petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech offers excellent driveability and fuel efficiency. The VXi’s 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, push-button start, and auto AC notably enhance user experience for first-timers.
- Mahindra XUV 3XO MX1: For first-time buyers on a tighter budget, the XUV 3XO MX1 at Rs. 7.49 lakh is a surprisingly well-equipped option. While it skips the touchscreen, it still packs in essentials like power windows, power steering, manual AC, and a four-speaker audio system. Importantly, it doesn’t compromise on safety, offering 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and ESP.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Pro, Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi, and Mahindra XUV 3XO MX1 offer three distinct yet well-rounded options for the first-time compact SUV buyer. The XUV 3XO MX2 Pro delivers essential comfort features, advanced safety kit, and a peppy engine at an affordable price. The Brezza VXi commands a premium for the peace of mind and low running costs associated with Maruti. And the XUV 3XO MX1 is a well-priced entry point into Mahindra’s safety and quality promise.
If you’re interested in reading more such comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
