As a new driver, you are buying your first car, but are confused about which are the best, or top cars for first-time buyers in India? Let us help you decide which option to choose. We look at the recently launched Maruti Suzuki Swift 2024, and find out which of its variants with automatic transmission 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 Swift 2024 – an in-depth guide to its automatic 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
First-time car buyers often prioritize affordability, ease of driving, and safety when choosing their first vehicle. They seek a car that offers good fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and essential features. An automatic transmission is preferred by many first-time buyers as it eliminates the need for manual gear shifting, making driving more convenient and less stressful.
Why Maruti Suzuki Swift 2024 is Popular
The Maruti Suzuki Swift 2024 has been a popular choice among first-time car buyers due to its combination of affordability, reliability, and driving convenience. The hatchback’s compact size and light steering make it easy to maneuver in city traffic and tight parking spaces, instilling confidence in new drivers.
The Swift’s automatic transmission variants, equipped with the Auto Gear Shift (AGS) technology, offer a smooth and effortless driving experience. The AGS system automatically shifts gears based on driving conditions, reducing the stress of manual gear changes and making it ideal for first-time buyers.
Maruti Suzuki’s extensive service network and reputation for low maintenance costs further add to the Swift’s appeal. The car’s resale value is also strong, ensuring a good return on investment when it’s time to upgrade.
Moreover, the Swift offers a range of automatic transmission variants at different price points, allowing first-time buyers to choose the one that best fits their budget and requirements. From the affordable VXi AMT to the feature-rich ZXi Plus AMT DT, there’s a Swift for every first-time buyer.
Maruti Suzuki Swift 2024 Automatic Variants Shortlist
| Variant | Price as on 13 May 2024 |
| VXi AMT | ₹7,79,501 |
| VXi Opt AMT | ₹8,06,500 |
| ZXi AMT | ₹8,79,500 |
| ZXi Plus AMT | ₹9,49,501 |
| ZXi Plus AMT DT | ₹9,64,499 |
Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi AMT
This variant offers the convenience of an automatic transmission along with essential features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, making it an attractive option for tech-savvy first-time buyers.
Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi Opt AMT
Building upon the VXi AMT, this variant includes additional safety features like emergency alerts and stolen vehicle tracking, providing added peace of mind for new drivers.
Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi AMT
The ZXi AMT variant offers a premium feel with 15-inch alloy wheels and additional safety features, making it a compelling choice for first-time buyers who prioritize style and security.
Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi Plus AMT
As the top-spec automatic variant, the ZXi Plus AMT comes with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, front fog lights, and a wide-angle rear parking camera, offering a feature-rich experience for first-time buyers willing to stretch their budget.
Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi Plus AMT DT
This variant adds dual-tone color options to the ZXi Plus AMT, appealing to first-time buyers who want to make a bold statement with their first car.
Our Pick for the Best Automatic Variant in Maruti Suzuki Swift for First-time Car Buyers
After careful consideration, we recommend the Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi AMT as the best variant for first-time buyers. Priced at ₹7,79,501, the VXi AMT offers the right balance of affordability, convenience, and essential features.
The VXi AMT variant comes equipped with the user-friendly Auto Gear Shift (AGS) technology, which automatically shifts gears based on driving conditions. This eliminates the need for manual gear changes, making driving more convenient and less stressful for first-time buyers. The AGS system also helps in achieving optimal fuel efficiency of 25.75 kmpl, reducing running costs.
The 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity keeps first-time buyers entertained and connected on the go. The 4-speaker audio system enhances the in-cabin experience.
With six airbags and rear parking sensors, the VXi AMT prioritizes safety, giving first-time buyers added peace of mind. The 1.2-liter petrol engine delivers a peppy performance while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency, helping new drivers save on fuel costs.
While the VXi AMT may not have all the bells and whistles of the higher-end variants, it offers the essential features that first-time buyers need, making it an ideal choice for those starting their car ownership journey with an automatic transmission.
The Top 3 Choices
- Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi AMT
- Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi Opt AMT
- Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi AMT
| Attribute | VXi AMT | VXi Opt AMT | ZXi AMT |
| Android Auto & Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 7-inch Touchscreen Infotainment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency Alerts | No | Yes | Yes |
| Stolen Vehicle Notification & Tracking | No | Yes | Yes |
| 15-inch Alloy Wheels | No | No | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi AMT: As mentioned earlier, the VXi AMT variant strikes the perfect balance between affordability and essential features, making it our top pick for first-time buyers looking for an automatic transmission.
- Maruti Suzuki Swift VXi Opt AMT: First-time buyers who prioritize safety will find the VXi Opt AMT variant appealing. It adds advanced safety features like emergency alerts and stolen vehicle tracking, providing an extra layer of security.
- Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXi AMT: The ZXi AMT variant is ideal for first-time buyers who want a touch of style and convenience. The 15-inch alloy wheels, rear parking camera, and additional safety features justify the slight price premium over the VXi AMT and VXi Opt AMT.
These three variants cater to different priorities of first-time buyers looking for an automatic transmission. The VXi AMT offers the best overall package, the VXi Opt AMT prioritizes safety, and the ZXi AMT adds a touch of style. All three variants provide the convenience of an automatic transmission, fuel efficiency, and the reliability that first-time buyers seek in their first car. With the Maruti Suzuki Swift automatic variants, first-time buyers can enjoy a hassle-free driving experience from the start of their car ownership journey.
If you’re interested in reading more such guides to popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.