Hi Autocar Team, I am a first-time car buyer and am considering the Citroen C3. My daily running is less than 50 km and I will use the car for both daily driving and occasional long trips. However, I am confused between the Citroen C3 and the Nissan Magnite and am also unsure about the Citroen brand in India. Is Citroen a reliable brand, and how does the C3 perform in terms of maintenance and mileage? Which car would you recommend?

Autocar India

•2d

It's a safe bet to buy the Maruti Suzuki Brezza now, but do note that your budget will restrict you to the lower LXi or VXi variants. Coming from a Wagon R, you’ll like the upright seating, great visibility and light controls, and the simple 1.5 petrol feels easy in traffic with the same fuss-free ownership Maruti is known for. The Brezza also rides more comfortably than a hatch and has usable rear space and boot for family runs. A facelift is unlikely to change the basics - especially in the lower variants - and will most likely see a bump in prices.Keep in mind, though, the LXi is quite basic, and the VXi only adds a few more features. Also, the engine, while powerful enough, isn't very exciting or strong out on fast highways.If features matter more than badge, look at the Nissan Magnite or Renault Kiger mid-trims, which land under Rs 11 lakh on-road and offer better equipment, representing stronger value for money. However, they feel a size smaller, and their dealer network is smaller than Maruti’s.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Nissan Magnite

Renault Kiger

Autocar India

•3h

The Honda Amaze CVT would be the recommendation here. For a beginner driver with predominantly city usage, the Amaze's CVT automatic is a major advantage. It is smoother, more refined and easier to drive in stop-start traffic than the AMT offered in the Exter. The sedan also offers a more comfortable ride, a larger boot and a mature driving experience that will remain satisfying even as your driving skills improve.The Hyundai Exter counters with its higher seating position, which some new drivers find reassuring, along with better ground clearance for rough roads and speed breakers. However, its AMT gearbox is not as seamless as the Honda's CVT.

Honda Amaze

Hyundai Exter

Autocar India

•5h

Go for the Hyundai Venue. It sits on the newer platform and has a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. It also has the better back seat among the two, which helps on long trips with family, and the cabin feels a touch more airy. For highway-heavy use you could consider the 1.5 diesel which is refined and gives good real world mileage. The Sonet has the firmer suspension between the two; it isn't as absorbent as the Venue over rough roads, but feels a bit more planted on the highway. If you’re fixed on petrol within Rs. 12 lakh, the Venue is solid pick.

Kia Sonet

Hyundai Venue