For decades, the entry-level car segment has formed the backbone of the Indian automobile market. However, in recent years, this category has witnessed a steady decline, thanks to rising prices due to stricter safety and emission regulations.
Nevertheless, a handful of manufacturers continue to offer budget-friendly new cars under the Rs 10 lakh mark. Unsurprisingly, Maruti Suzuki remains the strongest player in this space, with 6 of its models featuring on the list. That said, below are the 10 most affordable cars currently on sale in India.
10. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios (Rs 5.98 lakh)
The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios serves as the entry point into Hyundai’s extensive portfolio in India. Priced between Rs 5.98 lakh and Rs 8.66 lakh, it offers a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 83hp and 114Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or an AMT. Additionally, a factory-fitted CNG version is available, starting at Rs 7.75 lakh.
Price Range: Rs 5.98 lakh – Rs 8.66 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): MT – 16 kpl | AMT – 18 kpl
9. Maruti Suzuki Ignis (Rs 5.85 lakh)
The Maruti Ignis, retailed through the Nexa dealership network, combines quirky design with compact dimensions. It is powered by a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 83hp and 113Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a manual gearbox and an AMT, with the latter priced from Rs 6.89 lakh.
Price Range: Rs 5.85 lakh – Rs 8.12 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): MT/AMT – 20.89 kpl
8. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R (Rs 5.79 lakh)
The Maruti Wagon R is one of India’s most enduring and bestselling nameplates. It is available with two petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder unit (68hp, 89Nm) and a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder unit (83hp, 113Nm). The Wagon R is also offered with AMT and factory-fitted CNG variants, making it a versatile choice for urban commuters.
Price Range: Rs 5.79 lakh – Rs 7.02 lakh
Mileage (ARAI):
1.0 MT/AMT – 24.35/25.19 kpl | 1.2 MT/AMT – 23.56/24.43 kpl | CNG – 34.05 km/kg
7. Maruti Suzuki Eeco (Rs 5.70 lakh)
The Maruti Eeco is the only van on this list and remains popular for both personal and commercial applications. Powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine (81hp, 105Nm), it is available solely with a manual transmission. A CNG option is also on offer, making it a cost-efficient choice for small businesses and families alike.
Price Range: Rs 5.70 lakh – Rs 6.06 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): Petrol MT – 19.71 kpl | CNG – 26.78 km/kg
6. Maruti Suzuki Celerio (Rs 5.64 lakh)
The Maruti Celerio is recognised as India’s most fuel-efficient petrol car. It is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine producing 67hp and 89Nm. Buyers can choose between MT, AMT, and factory-fitted CNG variants, offering both affordability and efficiency for city driving.
Price Range: Rs 5.64 lakh – Rs 7.37 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): MT – 24.97 kpl | AMT – 26.68 kpl | CNG – 34.43 km/kg
5. Citroen C3 (Rs 5.25 lakh)
The Citroen C3 represents the French automaker’s most accessible product in India. It is available with two petrol engine options: a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre unit (82hp) and a more powerful 1.2-litre turbocharged engine (110hp). While priced higher in its top trims, the C3 stands out for its engaging driving dynamics and youthful styling.
Price Range: Rs 5.25 lakh – Rs 9.90 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): 1.2 MT – 19.3 kpl | 1.2 Turbo AT – 18.3 kpl
4. Tata Tiago (Rs 5.00 lakh)
The Tata Tiago is the most affordable car from Tata Motors and is noted for its strong safety credentials, having achieved a 4-star GNCAP rating. Powered by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine (86hp, 113Nm), the Tiago is available with manual, AMT, and factory-fitted CNG options. Notably, it is the only car in this segment to offer a CNG-AMT combination.
Price Range: Rs 5.00 lakh – Rs 8.85 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): MT – 19.01 kpl | AMT – 19 kpl | CNG MT – 26.49 km/kg | CNG AMT – 28.06 km/kg
3. Renault Kwid (Rs 4.70 lakh)
The Renault Kwid offers a distinctive design and compact proportions, making it a direct rival to the Maruti Alto. It is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine (68hp, 91Nm) and is offered with both MT and AMT gearboxes. While a CNG kit is available, it is fitted at the dealer level rather than factory-fitted.
Price Range: Rs 4.70 lakh – Rs 6.50 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): MT – 21.7 kpl | AMT – 22.5 kpl
2. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso (Rs 4.27 lakh)
Marketed as a “mini SUV,” the Maruti S-Presso is a high-riding hatchback that prioritises cabin space and practicality. It uses the same 1.0-litre petrol engine as the Alto K10 and offers MT, AMT, and factory-fitted CNG variants.
Price Range: Rs 4.27 lakh – Rs 6.01 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): MT – 24.12 kpl | AMT – 25.3 kpl | CNG – 32.73 km/kg
1. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 (Rs 4.23 lakh)
The Maruti Alto K10 is the most affordable passenger car in India today. Despite its budget positioning, it is equipped with six airbags as standard, offering a commendable safety feature for the segment. The hatchback is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine (67hp, 89Nm) and comes with MT, AMT, and factory-fitted CNG options.
Price Range: Rs 4.23 lakh – Rs 5.91 lakh
Mileage (ARAI): Petrol MT – 24.39 kpl | AMT – 24.9 kpl | CNG – 33.85 km/kg
DriveSpark Thinks
The affordable car segment in India may have shrunk considerably over the years, but it still offers a variety of options for first-time buyers and budget-conscious families. From Maruti’s tried-and-tested offerings to Tata’s emphasis on safety and Citroen’s youthful appeal, these cars provide a mix of affordability, practicality, and efficiency.