Kia Carens vs Hyundai Creta vs Honda City: Comparing Their Cheapest Automatic Variants for First-time Car Buyers
Buying a car for the first time, but confused about which are the best, or top cars for first-time buyers in India, and which option to choose? Let’s look at the cheapest automatic variants of Kia Carens, Hyundai Creta and Honda City, and find out which 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
- Kia Carens vs Hyundai Creta vs Honda City – an in-depth guide to their cheapest automatic 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.
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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.
For a first-time car buyer, the decision is influenced by a mix of excitement and caution. Key considerations include affordability, fuel efficiency, ease of driving, and safety features. New drivers often prioritize user-friendly technology like touchscreen infotainment and parking aids, as these features enhance the driving experience without overwhelming them.
Reliability and low maintenance costs are also crucial, as first-time buyers are often not experienced in handling frequent or complex car repairs. Finally, the car’s design and comfort hold significant value, as it represents the buyer’s personal style and needs for everyday use.
Why Kia Carens, Hyundai Creta, and Honda City are Popular
Kia Carens, Hyundai Creta, and Honda City have become popular choices for first-time car buyers due to several compelling factors. These models strike an excellent balance between affordability and premium features, making them accessible yet desirable. They offer high fuel efficiency, which is crucial for buyers conscious of running costs.
Moreover, their user-friendly interfaces, like easy-to-navigate touchscreens and intuitive steering-mounted controls, make these cars a hit among those who are new to driving. Safety features like rear parking sensors and ABS are standard, providing peace of mind.
The cars also boast of stylish designs and comfortable interiors, catering to the aesthetic and comfort needs of new drivers. Additionally, their brand reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs adds to their appeal, making them sound investments for first-time buyers.
Cheapest Automatic Variants of Kia Carens, Hyundai Creta, and Honda City
For Honda City, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 11 December 2023 |
|---|---|
| V CVT | ₹13,62,000 |
For Kia Carens, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 11 December 2023 |
|---|---|
| Premium iMT | ₹12,00,000 |
For Hyundai Creta, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 11 December 2023 |
|---|---|
| S Plus DT DCT | ₹15,79,000 |
Honda City V CVT
Honda City V CVT offers a perfect blend of comfort and technology at ₹13,62,000. Its CVT transmission ensures smooth driving, crucial for new drivers. The LCD touchscreen, tilt and telescopic steering, and overall mileage of 18.4 kmpl make it an economical and comfortable choice. Its safety features like ABS, power steering, and rear parking camera are excellent for first-time buyers. If you’re a long-distance road trip lover, you can check out our comparison of the City with Hyundai Creta.
Kia Carens Premium iMT
Kia Carens Premium iMT, priced at ₹12,00,000, is an excellent value-for-money option. It offers key features like a turbocharged engine for a spirited drive and essential safety features like ABS and rear parking sensors. Its 6 airbags and 195 mm ground clearance provide added safety and versatility, appealing to new drivers looking for a safe yet dynamic driving experience. If you value a car’s style and design, you can read our comparison of the Carens with Maruti Suzuki XL6.
Hyundai Creta S Plus DT DCT
Hyundai Creta S Plus DT DCT at ₹15,79,000, is a bit pricier but offers advanced features. It includes a turbocharged engine, LED headlights, and a 7-gear DCT transmission for a smooth drive. Safety features like 6 airbags, ABS, and a high GNCAP rating, along with modern amenities like a touchscreen LCD and Arkamys audio system, make it a top choice for safety-conscious and tech-savvy new drivers. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Creta with Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Kia Carens, Hyundai Creta, and Honda City for First-time Car Buyers
Among the three, the Honda City V CVT stands out as the best option for a first-time car buyer. Priced at ₹13,62,000, it offers a perfect balance of affordability, comfort, and technology. Its CVT transmission is ideal for new drivers, providing a smooth and hassle-free driving experience.
The car excels in key attributes such as safety with ABS, good overall and city mileage (18.4 kmpl), and a rear parking camera, making it practical for city driving. The tilt and telescopic steering, combined with a comfortable and ergonomic interior, ensure a relaxed driving experience.
The Honda City’s reliability and low maintenance cost are significant advantages, making it a wise choice for those new to owning and maintaining a vehicle.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Honda City V CVT
- Hyundai Creta S Plus DT DCT
- Kia Carens Premium iMT
| Attributes | Honda City V CVT | Hyundai Creta S Plus DT DCT | Kia Carens Premium iMT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ₹13,62,000 | ₹15,79,000 | ₹12,00,000 |
| Overall Mileage (kmpl) | Yes (18.4) | Yes (16.8) | No |
| Safety (ABS, Airbags) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Comfort (Power Steering, AC) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Technology (Touchscreen, USB) | Yes | Yes | No |
| Transmission – Auto Type | Yes (CVT) | Yes (DCT) | Yes (iMT) |
| Parking Assistance Features | Yes | Yes | No |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Honda City V CVT is perfect for those prioritizing smooth driving and fuel efficiency.
- Hyundai Creta S Plus DT DCT appeals to buyers seeking advanced tech features and safety.
- Kia Carens Premium iMT offers the best value for money, with essential safety features and a turbocharged driving experience.
The attractiveness of these three variants for a first-time car buyer lies in their balanced blend of technology, safety, and comfort, all within a reasonable price range.
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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