Maruti Suzuki Brezza vs Kia Sonet 2024: Best Budget Variant for First-time Car Buyers
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 among these compact SUVs to choose, especially if you have a set budget. We look at the Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Kia Sonet 2024, and find out which of their entry-level 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
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza vs Kia Sonet 2024 – an in-depth guide to their entry-level 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
A first-time car buyer typically prioritizes affordability, reliability, safety, and low running costs. They seek a vehicle that offers good value, with essential features like air conditioning, power steering, and a decent audio system. Easy maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance are other key factors. Brand reputation and after-sales service also influence the decision, with many opting for tried-and-tested marques.
Why the Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Kia Sonet 2024 Are Popular
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Kia Sonet have emerged as top contenders in the compact SUV space, especially for first-time buyers. Both offer a compelling blend of style, features, safety, and practicality at attractive price points.
Maruti’s Brezza has been a consistent bestseller since its 2016 debut. The 2024 iteration builds on its strengths with bolder SUV styling, an upgraded cabin, and added features. The efficient 1.5L petrol engine with smart hybrid tech and Maruti’s wide service network add to its appeal for first-timers.
The Kia Sonet has been a revelation since its 2020 launch, winning the prestigious ICOTY award. Its SUV-inspired design, premium interiors, and extensive feature list belie its accessible pricing. For 2024, the Sonet gains ADAS safety kit and connected car tech, elevating its first-time buyer proposition.
Both models offer extensive variant choices to suit diverse budgets and preferences. Maruti’s unmatched brand trust and Kia’s trend-setting warranty further draw first-time buyers. With their aspirational design, rich equipment, and pocket-friendly pricing, the Brezza and Sonet make ideal entry points into the booming compact SUV segment for first-time buyers.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Kia Sonet 2024 Entry-level Variants
For Kia Sonet 2024, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 14 May 2024 |
|---|---|
| HTE | ₹7.99 lakh |
| HTE (O) | ₹8.19 lakh |
| HTK | ₹8.89 lakh |
For Maruti Suzuki Brezza, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 14 May 2024 |
|---|---|
| LXi | ₹8.34 lakh |
| VXi | ₹9.69 lakh |
Kia Sonet HTE
The Kia Sonet HTE, priced at Rs. 7.99 lakh, is the entry-level petrol variant. While it skips some comfort features, it still offers essential kit like power windows, AC, 3.5-inch mono cluster, and rear parking sensors, making it a value-rich choice for first-time buyers on a budget.
Kia Sonet HTE (O)
At Rs. 8.19 lakh, the Sonet HTE (O) adds driver and passenger vanity mirrors and speed-sensing auto door locks over the HTE, offering a few more convenience features while still being light on the wallet.
Kia Sonet HTK
The Sonet HTK, at Rs. 8.89 lakh, is our pick of the range. Its 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, sunroof, and rear camera justify the premium over the lower variants for first-time buyers looking to upgrade their drive experience.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi
The Maruti Brezza LXi, starting at Rs. 8.34 lakh, covers the basics with manual AC, power steering, all power windows, and a double-din audio system. Importantly, it packs in crucial safety features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors, prioritizing occupant protection.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza VXi
Rs. 9.69 lakh gets you the Brezza VXi, which adds a 7-inch touchscreen, push-button start/stop, auto AC, and steering-mounted controls to the LXi’s equipment list. These are notable upgrades that many first-time buyers will appreciate, though at a significant cost increment.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among the Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Kia Sonet 2024 for First-Time Car Buyers
Considering the specific needs and constraints of first-time car buyers, we recommend the Kia Sonet HTE as the top pick in this comparison. Priced at an attractive Rs. 7.99 lakh, it offers the best balance of essential features, safety kit, and value.
The Sonet HTE’s 1.2L petrol engine offers peppy performance and a rated efficiency of 18.4 kmpl, ideal for city commutes. Despite being a base variant, it doesn’t skimp on safety, offering dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and esc. It also covers the basics with all power windows, manual AC, a 3.5-inch cluster, and steering-mounted controls.
While it misses the touchscreen offered on higher variants, the Sonet HTE still gets a 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity for telephony and music streaming. The cost savings on the touchscreen are significant for first-time buyers.
In contrast, the base Brezza LXi costs Rs. 35,000 more while offering a similar level of core equipment. The Brezza VXi and Sonet HTK offer more flash with their touchscreens and premium features, but come at a steep price increment that many first-time buyers may not be able to stretch to.
Backed by Kia’s segment-leading 6 year/1.5 lakh km warranty package, the Sonet HTE is a complete and compelling choice that won’t break the bank, making it our top recommendation for first-time compact SUV buyers.
The Top 3 Choices
- Kia Sonet HTE
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi
- Kia Sonet HTK
| Feature | Kia Sonet HTE | Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi | Kia Sonet HTK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Conditioner | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Steering | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dual Airbags | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Kia Sonet HTE: Our top choice, and the reasons have been mentioned above.
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi: Priced Rs. 35,000 higher than the Sonet HTE, the Brezza LXi justifies its premium with Maruti’s strong brand reputation, low running costs, and unmatched service reach. Its proven 1.5L petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech offers excellent driveability and fuel efficiency. The LXi also matches the Sonet HTE’s essential features, making it a safe and sensible choice for first-timers.
- Kia Sonet HTK: For first-time buyers willing to stretch their budget for additional features, the Sonet HTK at Rs. 8.89 lakh is a compelling upgrade. Its 8-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity, sunroof, rear camera, and cruise control notably enhance the user experience. The HTK also gets 16-inch alloys, front fog lamps, and auto headlamps, adding to its SUV credentials.
The Kia Sonet HTE, Maruti Suzuki Brezza LXi, and Kia Sonet HTK offer three distinct yet well-rounded options for the first-time compact SUV buyer. The Sonet HTE delivers the core SUV experience and crucial safety kit at an affordable price. The Brezza LXi commands a premium for the peace of mind and low running costs associated with Maruti. And the Sonet HTK indulges the first-time buyer who wants to start their ownership journey with more features and flair.
If you’re interested in reading more such comparisons of popular car variants, head over to ourBuying Advice section.