Maruti Suzuki WagonR vs Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: Comparing Their CNG Variants Priced Rs 6-9 Lakh for Long-distance Road Trip Lovers

Written By: Kshitij Bisen
Published: November 15, 2023 at 04:42 PMUpdated: Updated: November 15, 2023 at 04:42 PM
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What are the best cars for long drives, or highway driving in India? Today, we take a look at the Maruti Suzuki WagonR and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, and their CNG variants to find out what makes them comfortable cars for road trips in India.

In this article, we will share

  • What a long-distance road trip lover looks for in a car
  • Maruti Suzuki WagonR vs Hyundai Grand i10 Nios – an in-depth analysis of their features, fuel efficiency, space, and safety
  • How to pick the right car for you

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500

What a Long-Distance Road Trip Lover Looks for in a Car

What a long-distance road trip lover should look for in a car:

  • Fuel Efficiency – The car should have high fuel efficiency so that long-distance trips are economical
  • Space – The car should have good space for a comfortable and enjoyable trip
  • Safety – The car’s safety ratings should be high, and adequate safety features
  • Handling – The car’s handling must be superior, and it should have high-speed stability

Long-distance road trip enthusiasts prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability in their vehicles. Key features include spacious interiors for legroom and storage, high highway mileage for economic travel, and robust infotainment systems for entertainment.

Safety features like a high GNCAP rating and ample airbags are essential for peace of mind. Advanced driver-assistance systems like cruise control and lane-keeping assist enhance driving ease, while a strong engine ensures smooth long-haul performance.

These travelers also value a car’s high-speed stability and minimal body roll for a comfortable journey.

Why Maruti Suzuki WagonR and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios are Popular

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios are popular choices for long-distance road trip lovers due to their blend of space, efficiency, and technology. Both models offer a comfortable cabin with ample legroom and headroom, essential for lengthy journeys.

Their impressive fuel efficiency, especially in CNG variants, makes them economical for long trips. The stability at high speeds coupled with a smooth transmission ensures a relaxing drive. Advanced infotainment systems in these cars, including touchscreen navigation and Bluetooth connectivity, provide entertainment and navigation ease.

The availability of automatic climate control and adjustable seating further enhances comfort. Safety features like ABS, airbags, and a high GNCAP rating add to their appeal for safety-conscious travelers.

Maruti Suzuki WagonR and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios CNG Variants Shortlist in Rs 6-9 Lakh Range

For Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, we have:

VariantPrice (INR) as on 14 November 2023
Magna CNG₹758,000
Sportz CNG₹813,000

For Maruti Suzuki WagonR, we have:

VariantPrice (INR) as on 14 November 2023
LXI CNG₹645,000
VXI CNG₹689,000

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG, priced at ₹758,000, offers a great balance of features for long-distance driving. Its CNG fuel type ensures cost-effective travel, crucial for extensive road trips. The variant provides rear AC vents, manual climate control, and power windows for passenger comfort.

Despite lacking a touchscreen, its stable high-speed performance and automatic transmission make it a practical choice. The 26.2 kmpl overall mileage is a standout feature for economical long journeys. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Grand i10 Nios with Hyundai Exter.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz CNG

At ₹813,000, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz CNG steps up with additional comforts like touchscreen navigation and OEM audio system, enhancing the entertainment aspect. Its moderate body roll and manual climate control maintain comfort over long distances.

The CNG engine and a fuel tank capacity of 60 liters extend the range, making it suitable for lengthy trips without frequent refueling stops. If you value a car’s design and style, you can check out our comparison of the Grand i10 Nios with Maruti Suzuki Ignis.

Maruti Suzuki WagonR LXI CNG

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR LXI CNG, priced at ₹645,000, is an economical option for long-distance travelers. It lacks some advanced features like a touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity but compensates with a strong overall mileage of 34.05 kmpl, making it highly fuel-efficient.

The manual transmission and pronounced body roll might be a drawback for some, but its affordability and high fuel efficiency make it a contender. If you’re safety-conscious, you can read our comparison of the WagonR with Tata Tiago.

Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI CNG

The VXI variant, at ₹689,000, offers slightly more features than the LXI. While it still lacks a touchscreen, it includes Bluetooth connectivity and OEM audio system, enhancing the driving experience.

Its similar fuel efficiency to the LXI variant, coupled with additional features like power steering and tilt steering column, makes it a more comfortable choice for long trips.

Our pick for the Best Variant Among Maruti Suzuki WagonR and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios for Long-Distance Road Trip Lover

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz CNG emerges as the best variant for long-distance road trip enthusiasts. Priced at ₹813,000, it strikes a fine balance between comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Its CNG engine and 60-liter fuel tank offer a blend of economic and environmental efficiency, crucial for extensive travel. The Sportz variant stands out with its touchscreen navigation and OEM audio system, ensuring entertainment and ease of navigation on long journeys.

The car’s moderate body roll and manual climate control provide a comfortable ride quality. Its safety features, including ABS and airbags, along with an automatic transmission, enhance the driving experience and safety.

Overall, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz CNG offers a comprehensive package that aligns well with the needs of long-distance road trip lovers.

The Top 3 Choices

  1. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz CNG
  2. Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI CNG
  3. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG
AttributeHyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz CNGMaruti Suzuki WagonR VXI CNGHyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG
Rear AC VentsYesNoYes
Touchscreen NavigationYesNoNo
High-Speed StabilityStableStableStable
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYesYes
Highway Mileage (kmpl)N/AN/AN/A
Climate ControlManualYesNo
Power Windows – FrontYesYesYes
Fuel TypeCNGCNGCNG
TransmissionAutomaticManualAutomatic
Overall Mileage (kmpl)26.234.0526.2

How to Pick the Right Car for You

  • The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Sportz CNG stands out for its balance of features, followed by the Maruti Suzuki WagonR VXI CNG, which offers basic comforts and high fuel efficiency.
  • The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG, despite being the most basic, provides essential features for long drives.

These three variants, with their distinct attributes, cater to the diverse needs of long-distance road trip enthusiasts, offering a mix of comfort, efficiency, and entertainment.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.

Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered