Maruti Suzuki Swift vs Hyundai Exter: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 6-8 Lakh for First-time Car Buyers

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 Maruti Suzuki Swift vs Hyundai Exter, 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
• Maruti Suzuki Swift vs Hyundai Exter – 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 typically prioritize affordability, ease of maintenance, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly features. They often seek compact or hatchback models that are easier to navigate and park, especially in urban settings. 

Safety features, reliable performance, and low running costs are also key considerations. Modern infotainment systems and connectivity options are increasingly important, offering convenience and enhanced driving experience. 

The overall brand reputation and resale value can also influence their decision.

Why Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai Exter are Popular

Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai Exter are popular choices among first-time car buyers due to their blend of affordability, reliability, and feature-rich offerings. 

The Swift, known for its peppy engine and efficient fuel consumption, also enjoys the backing of Maruti Suzuki’s extensive service network and high resale value. It’s compact yet spacious, making it ideal for city driving.

Hyundai Exter, though a newer entrant, has gained attention for its modern design, robust safety features, and comprehensive warranty packages. 

Both models offer a comfortable driving experience, essential tech features, and are well-suited for daily commutes and occasional long drives.

Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai Exter Variants Shortlist in Rs 6-8 Lakh Range

For Maruti Suzuki Swift, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 23 November 2023
VXI	₹6,90,000
VXI AGS	₹7,45,000
ZXI	₹7,58,000

For Hyundai Exter, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 23 November 2023
EX Opt	₹6,35,000
S	₹7,37,000
S Opt	₹7,52,000

Maruti Suzuki Swift VXI

Affordable, with essential features like power steering, USB ports, and rear parking sensors. Good for city driving and fuel-efficient. However, it lacks advanced safety and infotainment features, which might be desired by tech-savvy buyers. If you’re budget-conscious, you can read our comparison of the automatic variants of Swift and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios.

Maruti Suzuki Swift VXI AGS

Automated gear shift (AGS) offers ease of driving, especially for new drivers in urban traffic conditions. Decent fuel efficiency and comfort. It has a slightly higher price, and AGS might not be as smooth as conventional automatic transmissions.

Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXI

Offers better features like an LCD touchscreen, and enhanced interior aesthetics. Good blend of comfort and technology. However, it has a higher price point compared to other variants. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the Swift with Nissan Magnite and Maruti Suzuki Fronx.

Hyundai Exter EX Opt

Most affordable option with essential features like power steering and front power windows. Good for budget-conscious buyers. But it lacks advanced safety features and modern infotainment system.

Hyundai Exter S

Adds features like steering mounted controls and improved audio system, enhancing driving comfort and experience. Higher price point; still misses out on some advanced features. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Exter with Tata Punch.

Hyundai Exter S Opt

Offers more comprehensive features including improved safety and infotainment systems. Good balance between functionality and comfort. The highest price among the variants; may stretch the budget of first-time buyers.

Our Pick for the Best Variant among Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai Exter for First-time Car Buyers

The Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXI at ₹7,58,000 emerges as the best option for a first-time car buyer. This variant offers a superior blend of essential and advanced features, including a user-friendly LCD touchscreen, enhanced audio system, and improved interior aesthetics, which add value to the driving experience. 

Its efficient fuel consumption and reliable performance, combined with Maruti’s extensive service network, make it a practical and convenient choice for new drivers. The Swift ZXI’s compact design is ideal for urban environments, and it also provides a comfortable and safe driving experience, essential for first-time buyers.

The Top 3 Choices

1. Maruti Suzuki Swift ZXI
2. Hyundai Exter S Opt
3. Swift VXI AGS

Feature	Swift ZXI	Exter S Opt	Swift VXI AGS
Price (₹)	7,58,000	7,52,000	7,45,000
USB Ports	Yes	Yes	Yes
Steering Mounted Controls	No	Yes	No
Rear Parking Sensors	Yes	Yes	Yes
Power Steering	Yes	Yes	Yes
Touchscreen	LCD	LCD	No
ABS	Yes	Yes	Yes
Audio System	OEM	OEM	OEM
Power Windows – Front	Yes	Yes	Yes
Automatic Transmission	No	No	AMT

How to Pick the Right Car for You

• The Swift ZXI stands out for its overall value and user-friendliness. 
• The Exter S Opt offers a modern design with improved safety features. 
• The Swift VXI AGS is ideal for those seeking ease of driving in city traffic with its automatic transmission. 

For first-time car buyers, these three variants offer a balanced mix of essential features, comfort, and technology at a reasonable cost. They provide a blend of reliability, efficiency, and convenience, making them highly attractive to first-time car buyers.

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