Second-Hand Maruti Suzuki Dzire vs Second-Hand Hyundai Aura: Which One Should You Buy?

If you're in the used car market looking for a budget-friendly compact sedan that gives decent mileage, is economical to maintain, and won't disappoint in the long term, then you'll come across two very attractive choices: the used Maruti Suzuki Dzire and the used Hyundai Aura. Both are top-ranking favourites in India's compact sedan market, offering a range of features (even in older versions) and providing great value for money.

But when considering pre-owned cars, you cannot make a purchase based on popularity or brand name alone. You also need to consider how long the car would last, how well-maintained it was, and how much you'll spend on repair or maintenance when you take it home. So, if you're confused between a second hand Dzire and a second hand Hyundai Aura, this guide will help in making that decision easier. 

Second Hand Dzire vs Second Hand Aura: Design and Looks

Let's be honest, looks do matter when it comes to cars. 

• Maruti Suzuki Dzire has come a long way since its boxier first-gen days. The models from 2017 onwards feature a more fluid, proportionate design with a bold chrome-accented grille, swept-back headlamps, and cleaner rear styling. While it doesn’t scream for attention, the Dzire offers a more mature, elegant aesthetic that appeals to a more age-diverse audience.
• Hyundai Aura, being newer, introduces sharper design cues like LED DRLs, chrome trim, and a youthful appearance. Even the interior of the Aura looks much better in terms of dashboard layout, infotainment design, and material feel.

If you want something newer looking despite being a couple of years older, then the Aura definitely looks fresher and sleeker inside and out.

Second Hand Dzire vs Second Hand Aura: Cabin Comfort & Features

Comfort-wise, both vehicles are great, particularly in their top variants. However, there are subtle differences between them.

• Used Dzire ZXI/ZDI variants have features such as push-button start, rear air-conditioning vents, touchscreen infotainment, and steering-mounted controls.
• Second-hand Aura SX/SX(O) models include the same features but look and feel more premium on the inside. You even get wireless phone charging on higher variants.

Space for rear-seat passengers is nearly identical in both, although the Dzire may have a fraction of an inch advantage in legroom. But if you spend a lot of time behind the wheel, you may appreciate Aura's more engaging and ergonomic front-seat design.

Second Hand Dzire vs Second Hand Aura: Engine & Performance

The Maruti Dzire, particularly the second-gen (2012-2017)and third-gen (2017-2020) cars, features the reliable and powerful 1.2L K-Series petrol engine. It is smooth, fuel-efficient, and extremely low maintenance. If you ever do get your hands on a diesel variant (bygone era since BS6), you can get tremendous mileage of up to 24 kmpl.

The Hyundai Aura has more options: a 1.2L petrol, a 1.0L turbo-petrol, and a diesel. The turbo petrol is a delight if you want snappy acceleration, and the 1.2L is silky smooth even without the turbo.

Ride quality is where Aura is a tad more stable and planted on highways, but Dzire is geared for city ride comfort.

Second Hand Dzire vs Second Hand Aura: Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

If mileage is your only concern, particularly with a second hand vehicle, then there's hardly any car that can beat the Maruti Dzire. Its petrol variants easily clock a mileage of around 20-21 kmpl, and its diesel variants (models pre-2020) reach up to 24-25 kmpl on the highways.

The Hyundai Aura has decent mileage as well, where the petrol variant gives around 18-20 kmpl, the diesel gives around 23-25 kmpl, and the Turbo petrol gives around 16-18 kmpl.

Both cars offer CNG options in some variants, and you'll easily find CNG vehicles in the used car market. If you're primarily concerned with fuel costs, then go for factory-fitted CNG variants of either car. However, just be ready for lower boot space.

Second Hand Dzire vs Second Hand Aura: Service and Maintenance Costs

Service and maintenance are where the Dzire really shines. Here's why:

• Maruti's service network is unmatched in India
• Spare parts are inexpensive and readily available
• Even a 7-8-year-old Dzire is easy and inexpensive to maintain

The Hyundai Aura also has a good service network in big cities. However, it may not be as economical in the long term to maintain. Service charges are marginally higher, and spares may be expensive depending on the variant.

Second Hand Dzire vs Second Hand Aura: Resale Value

If you're already factoring resale value before you even buy a second hand car, then you're heading in the right direction!

The Maruti Dzire holds its value impressively even after 7-8 years because of Maruti's reputation and massive popularity among users. Even older models are in demand in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Unless the car is severely damaged, you won't see a massive depreciation.

Aura, being more recent and less popular in the used market, may lose value a little more quickly, but that also means that you might also be able to get a good price in the used car market.

Second Hand Dzire vs Second Hand Aura: Which One Should You Buy?

If you need a car, that is:

• Simple to maintain
• Very easily available in the used car market
• Delivers great mileage
• Has a wide service network all over India

Buy a second hand Maruti Suzuki Dzire. It's safe, smart, reliable, and will give you great value for money.

But if you need a car, that is:

• Sleek and stylish with premium interiors
• More fun to drive
• Comes with more advanced and latest features
• Quieter and smoother on highways

Get a second hand Hyundai Aura. It provides a fresher feel and a better experience.