Maruti Suzuki Dzire VXI 1.2 Petrol MT

We would recommend you look at the Nissan Magnite. Since you are new to driving, the higher seating would offer you a good view outside and a slightly more secure feel compared to hatchbacks or a sedan. The interiors are comfy and spacious enough for a family of four, and since your driving is on highways and city roads, the ride and handling balance of the Magnite will benefit you. 

Highway stability is good, and while the city ride can be firm, it does not feel uncomfortable at any point. Opt for the 1.0 litre non-turbo engine as it offers sufficient performance for a relaxed driving style and would be more fuel efficient than the turbo engine. 

Within your budget, you would also get a decently equipped variant. The Magnite is also a safe car well-equipped with safety features, and it also scored a 5-star rating in the GNCAP tests. 

Reliability is also good, Nissan's dealer network is not widespread, thus make sure you have a dealer in your area who has a good reputation too. If not, consider the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, as a sedan, you will not get that higher seating, but it will meet your other requirements of safety, low maintenance and comfort.    

By definition, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire is a 'compact' sub-4-meter car; we assume you mean your father would like a smaller hatchback instead. In this case, the Maruti WagonR would be a good option. It's notably shorter in length compared to the Dzire and narrower too, so your father should find it easier to manage within the city. 

The higher seating height also gives you a better view outside, and it helps with an easier entry and exit, too.   

We would recommend you look at the Maruti Suzuki Dzire as the car is very reliable and spacious enough for a family of four. Also, assuming no one in your family is really very tall, as rear headroom will be tight for taller people, those around 5 feet 10 inches and above. 

Boot space would also be adequate for your few trips outside of the city. Just slightly above your budget is the fully loaded ZXi + variant. Though we would recommend you opt for the one below - the ZXi. This variant will give you all of the essential features like automatic AC, touchscreen with wireless phone connectivity and all of the safety features too, while coming in below your budget. 

You would also miss the sunroof, which frankly has limited utility, and in the Dzire is a very small unit and only lowers the headroom.    

We would recommend the Maruti Suzuki Dzire. The car is very spacious and will be more than enough for your family of three. Moreover, it will meet your other two requirements for safety and good after-sales service. 

Maruti has upped their safety game, and the new Dzire comes well equipped on the safety front and also scored a 5-star rating in both the BNCAP and GNCAP tests. And of course, being a Maruti car, you would have a wide dealer spread and a good service experience.     

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire is a better option than the Hyundai Aura. The Dzire is more spacious and comfortable, and its 1.2-litre petrol engine is a lot more efficient than the Aura's 1.2-litre petrol unit. 

Both compact sedans get an AMT gearbox, but the Dzire's unit is a bit nicer in the city. Feature-wise, both compact sedans offer a decent equipment list. But the Dzire has the advantage with wireless connectivity and a sunroof for a more premium experience. 

Moreover, the Dzire will hold its value a lot better, and it is the most economical car to own, especially for the city. The ride comfort is very good, the steering is light, and the efficiency is segment-best.