What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Nissan Magnite and Tata Nexon 2023 – to compare their base variants, as well as a similarly priced Magnite variant, for budget-conscious buyers.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
- Nissan Magnite vs Tata Nexon 2023 – a comprehensive analysis of their base variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
So, which of these can be considered the best budget compact SUV, or the most affordable car in the compact SUV segment? And what affordable car options do they have in their lineup? Read on.
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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
A budget-conscious buyer prioritizes affordability without sacrificing essential features. They seek vehicles that offer a balance between cost, fuel efficiency, and maintenance expenses. Key considerations include a low purchase price, economical fuel consumption, high mileage, and minimal upkeep costs.
Safety features, while crucial, must align with the budget without inflating costs. Ultimately, such buyers desire a cost-effective package that delivers dependable performance and essential comforts.
Why Nissan Magnite and Tata Nexon 2023 are Popular
Nissan Magnite and Tata Nexon 2023 have emerged as popular choices among budget-conscious buyers due to their attractive pricing coupled with a host of features.
Starting with Nissan Magnite, its competitive entry-level price makes it an accessible option. The Tata Nexon, while slightly higher in the price range, compensates with additional safety features and robust build quality.
Both models boast respectable fuel efficiency, reducing long-term running costs. Additionally, their modern designs and adequate technology offerings, like touchscreen infotainment and power windows, make them desirable without breaking the bank.
Their proven reliability and low maintenance costs further enhance their appeal to cost-sensitive consumers.
Nissan Magnite and Tata Nexon 2023 Variants Shortlist in Rs 6-9 Lakh Range
For Nissan Magnite, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 7 November 2023 |
| XE | ₹600,000 |
| XV Red Edition | ₹806,000 |
| Turbo XL | ₹825,000 |
For Tata Nexon 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 7 November 2023 |
| Smart | ₹810,000 |
Nissan Magnite XE
Priced at ₹600,000, the Nissan Magnite XE is the cheapest variant on this list and stands out for its affordability. It covers basic safety with 2 airbags and ABS while offering a decent overall mileage of 18.75 kmpl.
Its 999cc engine is modest but sufficient for city driving, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the Magnite with Hyundai Venue N Line.
Nissan Magnite XV Red Edition
The XV Red Edition, priced at ₹806,000, adds a touch of style with alloy wheels and an LCD touchscreen. While slightly pricier, it retains the fuel efficiency of the XE and improves on convenience with features like automatic ORVMs and rear parking sensors, providing more value for those who can stretch their budget. If you’re a senior citizen car buyer, you can check out how the Magnite stacks up against Maruti Suzuki Baleno.
Nissan Magnite Turbo XL
At ₹825,000, the Turbo XL variant brings in turbocharging, enhancing engine responsiveness and power delivery. It offers the best performance among the listed variants, suitable for buyers who prioritize driving dynamics alongside budget constraints.
Tata Nexon Smart
The Smart variant of Tata Nexon, priced at ₹810,000, provides a well-rounded package. Its 1199cc turbocharged engine and safety features, including 6 airbags, ABS, and a 5-star GNCAP rating, make it a compelling choice.
It’s ideal for buyers who can slightly extend their budget for added safety and performance. If you’re a safety-conscious car buyer, you can read our comparison of the Nexon 2023 with Renault Kiger.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Nissan Magnite and Tata Nexon 2023 for Budget-conscious Buyers
The Nissan Magnite XE emerges as the best variant for a budget-conscious buyer. Priced at ₹600,000, it is the most affordable option among the listed variants. Despite its low cost, it doesn’t compromise on essential features. It offers a reasonable fuel economy of 18.75 kmpl and basic safety with two airbags and ABS.
For buyers who prioritize initial affordability and seek a vehicle for everyday urban use, the Nissan Magnite XE stands out as the optimal choice.
The Top 3 Choices
- Nissan Magnite XE
- Tata Nexon Smart
- Nissan Magnite XV Red Edition
| Attributes | Nissan Magnite XE | Nissan Magnite XV Red Edition | Nissan Magnite Turbo XL | Tata Nexon Smart |
| Engine – Fuel type | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol | Electric |
| Airbags (number) | 2 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Steering | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Windows – Front | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Manual | Automatic | Manual | Automatic |
| Stereo System | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Alloy Wheels | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Sunroof | No | No | No | No |
| Upholstery | Fabric | Fabric | Fabric | Fabric |
| ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) | Manual | Electric | Manual | Electric |
| Fog Lamps | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Transmission | Manual | Manual | Manual | Automatic |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Nissan Magnite XE, with its lowest price point, meets the fundamental requirements without any frills.
- The Tata Nexon Smart, slightly more expensive, offers enhanced safety and performance.
- Lastly, the Nissan Magnite XV Red Edition provides additional comfort and technological features at a marginally higher cost.
The attractiveness of these three variants for a budget-conscious buyer lies in their balance between affordability and essential features. Each caters to a specific set of priorities within a budget-conscious framework, offering choices without compelling buyers to break the bank.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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