Mahindra XUV 3XO vs Kia Sonet 2024 for New Drivers: Best Diesel Variant Priced Rs 9-11 Lakh for First-time Buyers
Are you buying your first car, but are confused about which are the best, or top compact SUVs for first-time buyers in India? Let us help you decide which option among them to choose, especially if you have a preference for diesel engines. We look at the Mahindra XUV 3XO and Kia Sonet 2024, and find out which of their diesel 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
- Mahindra XUV 3XO vs Kia Sonet 2024 – an in-depth guide to their diesel variants, features, cost, and driveability
- How to pick the right car for you
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 have unique preferences and priorities when it comes to choosing their first vehicle. They often seek a balance of affordability, reliability, and practicality. Safety features, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs are key factors that influence their decision. Additionally, first-time buyers appreciate easy maneuverability, a comfortable interior, and a decent set of features that enhance their driving experience without breaking the bank.
Why Mahindra XUV 3XO and Kia Sonet 2024 are Popular
The Mahindra XUV 3XO and Kia Sonet 2024 have gained popularity among first-time buyers due to their compelling combination of features, performance, and value. Both compact SUVs offer a strong road presence, spacious interiors, and a host of safety and convenience features that appeal to first-time buyers.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO stands out with its aggressive styling, giving it a bold and confident look that resonates with young buyers. It offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. The XUV 3XO also boasts an impressive set of safety features, including multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, and a rear parking camera, providing peace of mind to first-time buyers.
On the other hand, the Kia Sonet 2024 is renowned for its modern design, premium features, and reliable performance. It offers a well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Sonet also excels in terms of safety, with features like electronic stability control, hill assist control, and a rear-view camera, instilling confidence in first-time buyers.
Both the XUV 3XO and Sonet are equipped with efficient diesel engines that deliver a balance of power and fuel economy. The XUV 3XO’s 1.5-liter turbo-diesel engine offers impressive torque, making it well-suited for city driving and occasional highway trips. The Sonet’s 1.5-liter CRDi diesel engine is known for its refinement and fuel efficiency, helping first-time buyers save on running costs.
In terms of affordability, both the XUV 3XO and Sonet offer competitive pricing in their respective segments. They provide a range of variants at different price points, allowing first-time buyers to choose the one that best fits their budget and requirements.
Moreover, Mahindra and Kia have extensive dealership networks and service centers across India, ensuring easy access to maintenance and after-sales support. This is particularly important for first-time buyers who prioritize hassle-free ownership experience.
Mahindra XUV 3XO and Kia Sonet 2024 Diesel Variants Shortlist in Rs 9-11 Lakh Range
For Kia Sonet 2024, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 16 May 2024 |
|---|---|
| HTE Diesel | ₹9,79,900 |
| HTE (O) Diesel | ₹9,99,900 |
| HTK Diesel | ₹10,49,900 |
For Mahindra XUV 3XO, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 16 May 2024 |
|---|---|
| MX2 Diesel | ₹9,99,000 |
| MX2 Pro Diesel | ₹10,39,000 |
| MX3 Diesel | ₹10,89,000 |
Kia Sonet HTE Diesel
This variant offers a great balance of affordability and features, making it an attractive choice for first-time buyers. It comes equipped with essential safety features like emergency stop signal, vehicle stability management, and all-seat 3-point seat belts with reminders, providing peace of mind.
Kia Sonet HTK Diesel
The HTK Diesel variant builds upon the features of the HTE Diesel, offering additional comfort and convenience elements. The inclusion of front and rear parking sensors, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system enhances the overall driving experience for first-time buyers.
Mahindra XUV 3XO MX2 Diesel
The MX2 Diesel variant of the XUV 3XO offers a compelling combination of features and value. It comes equipped with a spacious and comfortable interior, along with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The six airbags and rear parking sensors ensure the safety of occupants, making it a suitable choice for first-time buyers.
Mahindra XUV 3XO MX3 Diesel
As the top-spec diesel variant in our shortlist, the MX3 Diesel offers the most comprehensive package for first-time buyers. It includes all the features of the MX2 Pro Diesel, along with the added convenience of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The smart steering modes and fabric upholstery further enhance the driving experience.
Our Pick for the Best Diesel Variant Among Mahindra XUV 3XO and Kia Sonet 2024 for First-Time Buyers
After carefully considering the features, performance, and value offered by the shortlisted variants, we recommend the Kia Sonet HTK Diesel as the best option for first-time buyers.
The Kia Sonet HTK Diesel stands out for its impressive combination of features, safety, and convenience. It offers a spacious and well-appointed interior, ensuring a comfortable driving experience for both the driver and passengers. The leatherette upholstery adds a touch of premium feel, making it suitable for long drives.
In terms of safety, the HTK Diesel variant comes equipped with six airbags, providing comprehensive protection for occupants in case of an accident. The inclusion of front and rear parking sensors, along with a rear-view camera with guidelines, assists in easier maneuverability, which is particularly beneficial for first-time buyers who may not have extensive driving experience.
The 1.5-liter CRDi diesel engine in the Sonet HTK Diesel delivers a balanced performance, with a maximum torque of 250 Nm. This ensures a smooth and effortless driving experience, both in city traffic and on highways. The 6-speed manual transmission provides precise and easy gear shifts, making it user-friendly for first-time buyers.
The Sonet HTK Diesel also offers a host of convenience features, such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. These features enhance the overall driving experience and provide seamless smartphone integration, which is highly valued by first-time buyers.
Moreover, the Sonet HTK Diesel is priced competitively at Rs. 10,49,900, offering excellent value for money. It provides a comprehensive package of features, performance, and safety, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers who seek a well-rounded compact SUV.
The Top 3 Choices
- Kia Sonet HTK Diesel
- Mahindra XUV 3XO MX3 Diesel
- Kia Sonet HTE (O) Diesel
| Attributes | Sonet HTK Diesel | XUV 3XO MX3 Diesel | Sonet HTE (O) Diesel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Rear | Rear |
| No. of Airbags | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Android Auto/Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes | No |
| Rear Camera | With Guidelines | No | No |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Kia Sonet HTK Diesel takes the top spot for its impressive combination of features, safety, and convenience. It offers a spacious interior, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera with guidelines, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers.
- The Mahindra XUV 3XO MX3 Diesel secures the second position, offering a comprehensive package of features and performance. It comes equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and smart steering modes, enhancing the overall driving experience.
- The Kia Sonet HTE (O) Diesel rounds off the top three choices, providing a balance of affordability and essential features. It offers crucial safety elements like emergency stop signal, vehicle stability management, and all-seat 3-point seat belts with reminders, ensuring the safety of occupants.
All three variants provide a compelling package for first-time buyers, prioritizing safety, comfort, and convenience. They offer a range of features that cater to the needs and preferences of first-time buyers, ensuring a confident and enjoyable driving experience. Whether it’s the spacious interior, advanced safety features, or the convenience of modern infotainment systems, these top three choices have something to offer for every first-time buyer in the compact SUV segment.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.