Are you a new driver buying your first car, but confused about which are the best, or top cars for first-time buyers in India? Let us help you decide which option to choose. We look at the Hyundai i20 and Tata Tiago NRG, 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
- Hyundai i20 vs Tata Tiago NRG – 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.
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 prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability when choosing their first vehicle. They seek a car that offers a comfortable driving experience, modern features, and ample space for passengers and cargo.
Safety features such as airbags, ABS, and parking sensors are also important considerations. Additionally, first-time buyers often prefer cars with low maintenance costs and a good resale value.
Why Hyundai i20 and Tata Tiago NRG are Popular
The Hyundai i20 and Tata Tiago NRG are popular choices among first-time car buyers due to their combination of affordability, features, and performance. Both cars offer a range of variants to suit different budgets and preferences.
The Hyundai i20 is known for its stylish design, premium interiors, and advanced safety features. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and efficient engines. The i20’s touchscreen infotainment system, rear AC vents, and automatic climate control add to its appeal.
The Tata Tiago NRG is a rugged and stylish hatchback that offers excellent value for money. Its raised ground clearance, body cladding, and roof rails give it a distinctive look. The Tiago NRG’s spacious interiors, comfortable seats, and efficient engine make it an attractive option for first-time buyers.
Hyundai i20 and Tata Tiago NRG Variants Shortlist in Rs 7-8 Lakh Range
For Hyundai i20, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 24 April 2024 |
| Era | ₹7,04,000 |
| Magna | ₹7,75,000 |
For Tata Tiago NRG, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 24 April 2024 |
| XZ | ₹7,15,000 |
| XZA AMT | ₹7,70,000 |
Hyundai i20 Era
The base variant offers essential features like power steering, front power windows, and a USB port at an affordable price. Its efficient engine and comfortable ride make it a good choice for budget-conscious buyers. You can also read our comparison of the i20 with Kia Sonet 2024 for first-time car buyers.
Hyundai i20 Magna
This variant adds features such as automatic ORVMs, steering-mounted controls, and rear parking sensors. The Magna strikes a balance between affordability and features, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the i20 with Tata Tigor.
Tata Tiago NRG XZ
The XZ variant comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, push-button start, and a Harman audio system. Its rugged styling, high ground clearance, and efficient engine make it a good choice for buyers looking for a stylish and practical car.
Tata Tiago NRG XZA AMT
This variant combines the features of the XZ with the convenience of an AMT gearbox. The AMT ensures a smooth and effortless driving experience, making it ideal for city driving and traffic conditions.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Hyundai i20 and Tata Tiago NRG for First-time Car Buyers
After careful consideration, we recommend the Tata Tiago NRG XZ as the best variant for first-time car buyers. The Tiago NRG XZ offers a compelling package of features, performance, and value.
The XZ variant comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, push-button start, and a Harman audio system, which enhance the driving experience. Its rugged styling, high ground clearance, and body cladding give it a distinctive look that appeals to young buyers.
The Tiago NRG’s 1.2-liter petrol engine delivers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. With a claimed mileage of 20.09 kmpl, the Tiago NRG XZ helps keep running costs low, which is a significant advantage for first-time buyers.
Moreover, the Tiago NRG’s spacious interiors, comfortable seats, and adequate boot space make it practical for daily use. The car’s compact dimensions and light steering make it easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces.
In terms of safety, the Tiago NRG XZ comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors, providing peace of mind to first-time buyers.
Considering its combination of features, performance, fuel efficiency, and value for money, the Tata Tiago NRG XZ emerges as the best choice for first-time car buyers.
The Top 3 Choices
- Tata Tiago NRG XZ
- Hyundai i20 Magna
- Tata Tiago NRG XZA AMT
| Feature | Tiago NRG XZ | i20 Magna | Tiago NRG XZA AMT |
| Push Button Start | Yes | No | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Steering | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Windows – Front | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fog Lights | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen type | LCD | N/A | LCD |
| Automatic Climate Control | No | No | No |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Tiago NRG XZ tops our list for its excellent blend of features, performance, and affordability. Its rugged styling, spacious interiors, and modern amenities make it an ideal choice for first-time buyers.
- The i20 Magna secures the second spot for its premium features, comfortable ride, and stylish design. It offers a balance of affordability and features, making it an attractive option for those willing to stretch their budget slightly.
- The Tiago NRG XZA AMT takes the third position for its convenience and ease of driving. The AMT gearbox is perfect for city driving and appeals to first-time buyers who prefer an automatic transmission.
The Tata Tiago NRG XZ and XZA AMT, along with the Hyundai i20 Magna, offer the most attractive packages for first-time car buyers. These variants strike the right balance between affordability, features, performance, and value, making them excellent choices for those stepping into car ownership for the first time.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
