Best First-Time Car Buyer Options: Hyundai i20 vs Maruti Suzuki Baleno

What a First-time car buyer looks for in a car

A first-time car buyer typically looks for a vehicle that is affordable, safe, fuel-efficient, and easy to drive. Those buying premium hatchbacks for the first time prioritize essential safety features like ABS and crash warnings, along with convenience features such as power steering, power windows, and USB ports. A balance of performance and fuel efficiency is essential, as well as a comfortable driving experience. First-time buyers may also prefer options for manual and automatic transmission, depending on their driving preferences.

Why Hyundai i20 and Maruti Suzuki Baleno are popular among First-time car buyers

Hyundai i20 and Maruti Suzuki Baleno are two popular choices among first-time car buyers due to their competitive pricing, fuel efficiency, safety features, and overall driving experience. Both cars are known for their stylish design, spacious interiors, and user-friendly features.

The Hyundai i20 is recognized for its strong build quality and safety features, including ABS and crash warnings. Its comfortable interiors and impressive ground clearance make it suitable for various road conditions. The i20 is also known for its fuel efficiency and smooth driving experience. You can read our guide on Hyundai i20 for first-time car buyers.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno, on the other hand, is popular for its affordability and low maintenance costs. The Baleno comes equipped with essential safety features like ABS, power steering, and power windows, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers. It also offers a range of variants with manual and automatic transmission options, catering to different driving preferences. We also have our exclusive guide on the Maruti Suzuki Baleno variants for first-time car buyers.

Both Hyundai i20 and Maruti Suzuki Baleno have received positive reviews from expert automotive sources like Team-BHP and Autocar India, enhancing their credibility and appeal among first-time car buyers.

Our variants shortlist for Hyundai i20 and Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Variant	Price
Hyundai i20 Magna	₹719,000
Hyundai i20 Sportz	₹808,000
Hyundai i20 Sportz DT	₹823,000
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta	₹745,000
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta AMT	₹800,000
Maruti Suzuki Baleno Zeta	₹838,000

Hyundai i20 Magna is a good choice for first-time buyers, offering essential safety features like ABS and crash warnings, along with a comfortable driving experience with power steering and USB ports. Its ground clearance of 190mm and fuel efficiency of 21kmpl make it suitable for various driving conditions. You can also check out our comparison of the i20 with Toyota Glanza for budget-conscious buyers.

Hyundai i20 Sportz provides added convenience with push-button start and steering mounted controls. It comes with an LCD touchscreen and offers the same safety features as the Magna variant. However, it lacks power steering, which could be a concern for some buyers.

Hyundai i20 Sportz DT has the same features as the Sportz variant, with the addition of dual-tone exterior color options, giving buyers more customization choices.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta offers essential safety features, fuel efficiency of 22.35 kmpl, power steering, and power windows, making it an affordable and practical option for first-time car buyers. It also comes with an LCD touchscreen and steering mounted controls for added convenience.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta AMT provides the same features as the Delta variant, with the addition of an automatic transmission for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience. This variant also offers hill hold assist and ESC, enhancing safety and control on steep inclines.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno Zeta is an upgraded option, featuring an Arkamys audio system and push-button start. This variant includes knee/curtain airbags for added safety but maintains the same fuel efficiency as the Delta variant.

Best variant among Hyundai i20 and Maruti Suzuki Baleno for First-time car buyers

Considering safety, performance, convenience, and affordability, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta stands out as the best option for first-time car buyers. This variant offers essential safety features like ABS and crash warnings, along with power steering and power windows for a comfortable driving experience. With a fuel efficiency of 22.35 kmpl and a competitive price of ₹745,000, the Baleno Delta provides excellent value for money.

Additionally, the Baleno Delta includes convenient features like steering mounted controls and an LCD touchscreen, making it user-friendly for first-time buyers. While it lacks some advanced features like push-button start and hill hold assist, the Delta variant provides a solid balance of essential features at an attractive price point.

The Top 3 choices

1. Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta
2. Hyundai i20 Magna
3. Hyundai i20 Sportz

Attributes	Baleno Delta	i20 Magna	i20 Sportz
ABS	Yes	Yes	Yes
Crash warning	Yes	Yes	Yes
Manual transmission	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ground clearance	170mm	190mm	190mm
Highway Mileage	22.35 kmpl	21 kmpl	21 kmpl
Power Steering	Yes	Yes	No
USB Ports	Yes	Yes	Yes
LCD Touchscreen	Yes	None	LCD

The top three choices for first-time car buyers are the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Delta, Hyundai i20 Magna, and Hyundai i20 Sportz. The Baleno Delta offers an excellent balance of essential safety, performance, and convenience features at an attractive price point. The i20 Magna provides a strong build quality and safety features, while the i20 Sportz adds extra convenience options like an LCD touchscreen.

These variants cater to the needs and preferences of first-time car buyers, prioritizing affordability, safety, and user-friendly features.