What are the best cars for long drives, or highway driving in India? Today, we take a look at the mid-size SUVs Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and their top-end variants for long-distance road trip lovers.
In this article, we will share
- What a long-distance road trip lover looks for in a car
- Hyundai Creta vs Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara – an in-depth analysis of their features, fuel efficiency, space, and safety
- How to pick the right car for you
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
What a Long-distance Road Trip Lover Looks For in a Car
What a long-distance road trip lover should look for in a car:
- Fuel Efficiency – The car should have high fuel efficiency so that long-distance trips are economical
- Space – The car should have good space for a comfortable and enjoyable trip
- Safety – The car’s safety ratings should be high, and adequate safety features
- Handling – The car’s handling must be superior, and it should have high-speed stability
For a long-distance road trip enthusiast, comfort, safety, and efficiency sit at the helm. A spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom is essential for those prolonged hours on the road.
Additionally, safety features like airbags, ABS, and stability control provide peace of mind. With varying terrains, fuel efficiency and a large fuel tank capacity are invaluable, ensuring fewer stops.
Lastly, infotainment features like Bluetooth connectivity and touchscreen navigation enhance the journey, making every road trip memorable.
Why Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara are Popular
Both Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara have made a mark in the automotive world, especially in the realm of road trips.
The Hyundai Creta stands out for its robust design, spacious interiors, and impressive fuel efficiency, making it an ideal companion for long journeys.
On the other hand, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara’s strong hybrid system, ground clearance, and infotainment features, appeal to those seeking an eco-friendly and smooth driving experience.
Together, these vehicles offer a combination of performance, safety, and comfort, resonating with the desires of long-distance road trip lovers.
Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Top-end Variants Shortlist in Rs 19-20 Lakh Range
For Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 30 August 2023 |
| Alpha Plus Hybrid CVT DT | ₹19,79,000 |
| Alpha Plus Hybrid CVT | ₹19,95,000 |
For Hyundai Creta, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 30 August 2023 |
| SX Opt Diesel AT | ₹19,00,000 |
| SX Opt Knight Diesel AT DT | ₹19,20,000 |
| SX Opt Knight Diesel AT | ₹19,20,000 |
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha Plus Hybrid CVT DT
With a strong hybrid system, this variant offers eco-friendly efficiency. A fuel tank capacity of 45l and an overall mileage of 27.97 kmpl makes it suitable for extended drives. The spaciousness, marked by 208mm of ground clearance and stable high-speed stability, ensures a smooth ride.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha Plus Hybrid CVT
Almost mirroring its counterpart, this variant stands out due to its slightly higher price. The features remain consistent, emphasizing fuel efficiency and comfort. We have also compared the Grand Vitara with MG Astor for tech-savvy gadget lovers.
Hyundai Creta SX Opt Diesel AT
A diesel engine, coupled with a larger fuel tank of 50l and boot capacity of 433 liters, this Creta variant is tailored for long hauls. With a focus on interior comfort, including manual seating adjustments and rear AC vents, passengers are ensured a comfortable journey. You can also read our guide to the best Creta variants for performance enthusiasts.
Hyundai Creta SX Opt Knight Diesel AT DT & SX Opt Knight Diesel AT
Both these variants present identical offerings. With enhanced features like wireless charging and voice-activated controls, they add a touch of luxury to road trips. If you’re a style-conscious buyer, you can check out our comparison of the Creta with Volkswagen Taigun.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara for Long-distance Road Trip Lovers
The Hyundai Creta SX Opt Diesel AT emerges as the frontrunner. While both brands offer stellar features, this particular variant combines the best of both worlds.
The diesel engine ensures efficiency, and the larger fuel tank means fewer stops. A boot capacity of 433 liters provides ample space for luggage, and features like touchscreen navigation and Bose audio system elevate the overall travel experience.
The Top 3 Choices
- Hyundai Creta SX Opt Diesel AT
- Hyundai Creta SX Opt Knight Diesel AT DT
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha Plus Hybrid CVT DT
| Attributes | Hyundai Creta SX Opt Diesel AT | Hyundai Creta SX Opt Knight Diesel AT DT | Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha Plus Hybrid CVT DT |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Airbags (number) | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Body Roll | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Boot capacity (liters) | 433 | 433 | 373 |
| Climate Control | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Engine – Fuel type | Diesel | Diesel | Strong Hybrid |
| Fuel tank capacity (l) | 50 | 50 | 45 |
| GNCAP Rating | 5 | 5 | 4 |
| Ground clearance (mm) | 190 | 190 | 208 |
| High-Speed Stability | Stable | Stable | Stable |
| Highway Mileage (kmpl) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Windows – Front | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear AC vents | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen Navigation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Transmission – Auto Type | Torque Converter | Torque Converter | eCVT |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2610 | 2610 | 2600 |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Hyundai Creta SX Opt Diesel AT: This variant excels with its diesel engine, providing a substantial fuel tank capacity of 50 liters. The car’s safety is fortified with a GNCAP rating of 5, and its touchscreen navigation guarantees easy route planning for uncertain terrains.
- Hyundai Creta SX Opt Knight Diesel AT DT: Mirroring its counterpart in most features, what gives this variant an edge is its unique branding and minor luxury adjustments.
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha Plus Hybrid CVT DT: With its strong hybrid system, it promises reduced carbon footprints without compromising on performance. The eCVT transmission assures smoother drives, while its superior ground clearance of 208 mm makes it apt for various terrains. Though slightly compromised on boot space compared to the Creta, it more than compensates with its efficient fuel system and overall robust build.
In essence, while the two Hyundai Creta variants lean towards luxury combined with efficiency, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara focuses on sustainable driving without compromising the thrill of the journey. As such, both are comfortable cars for road trips in India.
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
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