What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Hyundai Verna and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara to compare their variants for budget-conscious buyers.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
- Hyundai Verna vs Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
So, can these cars be considered the best budget mid-size sedan and mid-size SUV? What affordable car options do they have in their lineup? Read on.
What a Budget-conscious Buyer Looks for in a Car
A budget-conscious buyer should look for these in a car:
- Affordability – a car should be affordable, and have low maintenance costs
- Fuel efficiency – The car shouldn’t guzzle fuel
- Safety features – Essential safety features are a must in a car
- Brand perception – Is the brand of the car known for its wide service network, after sales service, etc.
- Resale value – The car should fetch good resale rates
Budget-conscious buyers seek cars that offer the best value for their money. They prioritize fuel efficiency to minimize running costs and essential safety features such as airbags and ABS. Comfort and convenience, like power steering and air conditioning, are important, but they often look for models that provide these at a lower cost.
Performance is considered, but affordability is key. Low maintenance costs and good resale value are also critical factors. While they appreciate modern technologies and stylish designs, these are secondary to the car’s overall cost-effectiveness.
Why Hyundai Verna and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara are Popular
Hyundai Verna and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara are popular among budget-conscious buyers due to their blend of affordability, features, and reliable performance.

Hyundai Verna is known for its fuel-efficient engines, comfortable interiors, and safety features, making it a value-for-money choice. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, on the other hand, offers efficient mileage, robust build quality, and Maruti’s reputation for low maintenance costs.

Both models offer modern amenities like touchscreen infotainment and comprehensive safety features, typically found in more expensive vehicles, making them attractive options for those seeking value without compromising on quality.
Hyundai Verna and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Variants Shortlist in Rs 10-12 Lakh Range
For Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, we have:
Variant | Price (INR) as on 23 January 2024 |
Sigma | ₹1,070,000 |
For Hyundai Verna, we have:
Variant | Price (INR) as on 23 January 2024 |
EX | ₹1,096,000 |
S | ₹1,196,000 |
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma
Priced at INR 1,070,000, this variant is the cheapest on this list. It offers basic but essential features like power windows, air conditioning, and safety features, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing functionality and affordability. If you’re a gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Grand Vitara with Honda City.

Hyundai Verna EX
At INR 1,096,000, the Verna EX offers a fuel-efficient engine, standard safety features, and a comfortable interior, making it a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly sedan with a touch of luxury. We have also compared the Exter and Skoda Slavia for budget-conscious car buyers.

Hyundai Verna S
The Verna S variant, priced at INR 1,196,000, adds alloy wheels, an upgraded infotainment system, and enhanced comfort features, appealing to buyers wanting more amenities without a significant price increase. If you’re safety-conscious, you can read our comparison of the Verna with Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Hyundai Verna and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara for Budget-Conscious Buyers
The Hyundai Verna EX is the best choice for a budget-conscious buyer. Priced at INR 1,096,000, it strikes a perfect balance between affordability, essential features, and comfort without breaking the bank. It offers a fuel-efficient engine, which is key for minimizing running costs, and standard safety features that ensure peace of mind.
The Verna EX’s comfortable interiors and modern amenities, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, make it an appealing option for those seeking a budget-friendly sedan without sacrificing essential features.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Hyundai Verna EX
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma
- Hyundai Verna S
Attribute | Verna EX | Grand Vitara Sigma | Verna S |
Price (INR) | 1,096,000 | 1,070,000 | 1,196,000 |
Fuel Efficiency | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Safety Features | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Comfortable Interior | Yes | Moderate | Yes |
Touchscreen Infotainment | No | No | Yes |
Alloy Wheels | No | No | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Hyundai Verna EX is the most balanced choice, offering essential features and comfort at an affordable price.
- The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Sigma is the most budget-friendly, providing basic features and Maruti’s reliability.
- The Hyundai Verna S, while slightly more expensive, offers additional amenities like a touchscreen infotainment system and alloy wheels for buyers seeking more features.
Each of these variants is a car that fits within your budget, and caters to different aspects of budget-conscious buying, combining affordability, essential features, and comfort.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.