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 Renault Kiger and Maruti Suzuki WagonR, 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
- Renault Kiger vs Maruti Suzuki WagonR – 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 generally seek vehicles that are affordable, easy to drive, and reliable. They prioritize user-friendly features like simple infotainment systems, rear parking sensors, and automatic transmissions to ease the learning curve. Safety features such as airbags, ABS, and a good safety rating are crucial for peace of mind.
Fuel efficiency is also important to manage long-term costs. Ideally, they prefer cars with low maintenance requirements and good resale value. The overall design should be practical and appealing but not overly complicated.
Why Renault Kiger and Maruti Suzuki WagonR are Popular
Renault Kiger and Maruti Suzuki WagonR are popular choices among first-time car buyers due to their blend of affordability, ease of use, and reliability.
Renault Kiger, with its robust design and higher ground clearance, offers a comfortable driving experience and good visibility, which is essential for new drivers. Its safety features, coupled with modern amenities like a touchscreen infotainment system, make it an attractive option.
Maruti Suzuki WagonR, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, is a practical choice for urban environments. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and park, a significant advantage for new drivers. The WagonR’s straightforward controls and efficient performance make it an economical and user-friendly vehicle for beginners.
Renault Kiger and Maruti Suzuki WagonR Variants Shortlist in Rs 6-8 Lakh Range
For Renault Kiger, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as in 18 December 2023 |
| RXE | ₹649,990 |
| RXT | ₹792,000 |
| RXT Opt | ₹800,000 |
For Maruti Suzuki WagonR, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as in 18 December 2023 |
| VXI | ₹600,000 |
| ZXI | ₹628,000 |
| VXI AT | ₹654,000 |
Renault Kiger RXE
Offers essential features at an affordable price, suitable for those seeking a robust and stylish first car.
Renault Kiger RXT
Adds more comfort features like a larger touchscreen and steering-mounted controls, enhancing the driving experience for new drivers. If you’re budget-conscious, you can check out our comparison of the Kiger with Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and Maruti Suzuki Baleno.
Renault Kiger RXT Opt
Provides a complete package with additional safety features and convenience elements, ideal for those wanting a bit more from their first car.
Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI
Known for its simplicity and reliability, it’s a top pick for economical city driving. If you’re a senior citizen car buyer, you can check out our comparison of the WagonR with Renault KWID.
Maruti Suzuki WagonR ZXI
Offers a balance between price and advanced features like an upgraded engine.
Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI AT
Adds the convenience of an automatic transmission, suitable for first-time drivers in urban areas. We have also compared the WagonR with Hyundai Grand i10 Nios for first-time car buyers.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Renault Kiger, Maruti Suzuki WagonR for First-time Car Buyers
The Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI AT is the best choice for first-time car buyers. Priced at ₹654,000, it combines affordability, ease of driving, and practicality. The automatic transmission simplifies driving, making it ideal for beginners, especially in city traffic. Its compact size and excellent maneuverability aid in easy parking and navigation through busy streets.
The WagonR VXI AT’s high fuel efficiency ensures that running costs remain low, which is crucial for first-time buyers on a budget. Additionally, its straightforward controls and reliable performance make it a stress-free option for new drivers.
Top 3 Choices
- Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI AT
- Renault Kiger RXT
- Renault Kiger RXE
| Attribute | Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI AT | Renault Kiger RXT | Renault Kiger RXE |
| Price | ₹654,000 | ₹792,000 | ₹649,990 |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual | Manual |
| Fuel Efficiency | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Ease of Driving | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Safety Features (Airbags, ABS) | Standard | Enhanced | Standard |
| Infotainment System | Basic | Advanced | Basic |
| Parking Ease (Sensors, Camera) | Sensors | Sensors + Camera | Sensors |
| Ground Clearance | Moderate | High | High |
| Interior Space | Adequate | Spacious | Spacious |
| Maintenance Cost | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI AT is an ideal starter car for its automatic transmission, high fuel efficiency, and ease of use, particularly in urban settings.
- The Renault Kiger RXT, while slightly higher priced, offers more in terms of safety features and a more advanced infotainment system, suitable for those who want additional comfort and technology in their first car.
- The Renault Kiger RXE, with its robust design and essential features, stands as a viable option for those looking for a stylish yet affordable first car.
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