We rank the Virtus, Slavia, Ciaz, City and Verna, based on their features, powertrains, price and more.
Breaking the monotony of SUVs, the midsize sedan segment has recently seen a few new additions, bringing them back into focus. Sure, SUVs have their advantages, like the high ground clearance and an elevated seating position, but some still prefer the sedan body style and the associated driving manners.
The Skoda Slavia, Volkswagen Virtus and even the new Honda City Hybrid have brought sedans back into vogue. So, if you are in the market for a midsize sedan, we have ranked all the options currently on sale.Â
5. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
Autocar India rating – 7/10
Price – Rs 8.99 lakh-11.19 lakh*
The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is the oldest sedan in its class and its age especially shows on the equipment front and with its powertrain options. The sole 105hp, 1.5-litre petrol engine is smooth and responsive, but surely not exciting, and the 4-speed automatic gearbox also feels quite dated by class standards. Still, great fuel economy, good interior space and keen pricing are the Ciaz’s strengths.
4. Hyundai Verna
Autocar India rating – 7/10
Price – Rs 9.40 lakh-15.44 lakh*
The Hyundai Verna is one of the most versatile offerings, with petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engine options; each of them also gets an automatic gearbox. All three engines are refined and even in terms of equipment, the Verna is at par with the segment. It, however, has the poorest backseat of all. The Verna last received a facelift in March 2020 and feels a bit dated now. However, it is good value for money, with a variant for every budget.
3. Honda City
Autocar India rating – 8/10
Price – Rs 11.46 lakh-19.49 lakh*
The Honda City aces with its versatility, with petrol, diesel and even a strong-hybrid engine option. The interior is spacious and decently equipped, but the real highlight is its best-in-class back seat. While all engines offer good performance, it’s not quite the driver’s car it used to be. The City’s new e:HEV variant is also the most fuel-efficient sedan we have ever tested, although, for all its benefits, the hybrid is expensive.
2. Volkswagen Virtus
Autocar India Rating – 8/10
Price – Rs 11.21 lakh-17.91 lakh*
The Volkswagen Virtus is the newest of the lot. Being a VW sedan, it has a strong build quality and is generously equipped on the inside. Sharing powertrains and platform with its sister model, the Skoda Slavia, the Virtus offers an exciting driving experience that’s really the benchmark in the segment. It is slightly cheaper than the Slavia at the top-end, but prices are still introductory.
1. Skoda Slavia
Autocar India Rating – 8/10
Price – Rs 10.99 lakh-18.39 lakh*
The Slavia is great to drive, with both its 1.0 and 1.5 TSI engines. And just like the Virtus, it has a well sorted ride and handling balance. The interiors are feature-packed, although it misses out on the larger 10-inch touchscreen that’s still available on the Virtus. The Slavia has a slightly lower starting price than the Virtus, despite a recent price hike. Another major plus for the Slavia is that it gets a manual gearbox option with the 1.5 TSI engine, giving enthusiasts more choice at a more accessible price.Â
*All prices ex-showroom, Delhi
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