For many, the dream of car ownership in India is a precious aspiration, yet it often feels guarded by a prohibitive price wall. We’ve been conditioned to believe that a low sticker On Road Price means settling for a mere ‘tin can’—a basic, featureless compromise. This perception, a stubborn myth in the dynamic Indian automotive industry, is finally breaking down. The current market is brimming with excellent engineering and surprising features. And all of it is searching for the most affordable cars in India, more exciting than ever before.
The days of sacrificing safety, style, or technology for a lower EMI are over. Get ready to have your expectations utterly recalibrated as we dive deep into the 16 models that prove you don’t need a king’s ransom to drive a vehicle you genuinely love. Find out the true gems among the most affordable cars in India.
How to Choose the Right Budget Car? Here’s what you must consider?
When planning on buying a car, there are many factors one must consider before making the purchase.
First of all, you need to understand your needs; this is the first step to deciding on a budget. Once you know why you need a car, set a realistic budget. What this means is that you consider all costs that come with a car. Not just its price, but the fuel cost, insurance, registration, maintenance, and other small expenses that come with a car.
When you are done with these things, choose the car type, features, and fuel type. And use this information to create a list of cars for you to compare.
15 Most Affordable Cars in India That’ll Make You Rethink ‘Budget’
Now, here is a list of cars that you can buy on a tight budget. The list checks out 15 of the most affordable cars in the Indian market.
We have divided them into three categories based on their body type. So, here are 15 of the best cars at an affordable price.
| Category | Car Model | On Road Price (₹ Lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| Hatchbacks | Maruti Suzuki S-Presso | ₹4.16 lakh to ₹6.38 lakh |
| Maruti Alto K10 | ₹4.13 Lakh to ₹6.60 Lakh | |
| Renault Kwid | ₹4.74 Lakh to ₹6.84 Lakh | |
| Maruti Celerio | ₹5.22 Lakh to ₹8.10 Lakh | |
| Tata Tiago | ₹5.61 Lakh to ₹9.56 Lakh | |
| Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | ₹6.13 Lakh to ₹9.53 Lakh | |
| Tata Altroz | ₹7.04 Lakh to ₹13.21 Lakh | |
| Compact SUVs | Maruti Suzuki Ignis | ₹6.06 Lakh to ₹9.01 Lakh |
| Nissan Magnite | ₹5.62 Lakh to ₹10.76 Lakh | |
| Hyundai Exter | ₹6.49 Lakh to ₹10.93 Lakh | |
| Tata Punch | ₹6.6 Lakh to ₹12.4 Lakh | |
| Renault Kiger | ₹6.39 Lakh to ₹12.74 Lakh | |
| Kia Syros | ₹9.80 Lakh to ₹18.83 Lakh | |
| Electric Compact Cars | Vayve Mobility Eva | ₹3.25 Lakh to ₹4.49 Lakh |
| MG Comet EV | ₹7.50 Lakh to ₹9.56 Lakh |
Most Affordable Hatchbacks in India 2025
Here are the most affordable hatchback cars you can buy in the Indian market. If you are looking for an affordable car, hatchbacks should be your go-to option.
And here’s why:
1. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso
- Launch Year: 2019
- On Road Price: ₹4.16 lakh to ₹6.38 lakh
- Variants: Four main variants – STD (base), LXi, VXi, and VXi+, with CNG available in LXi and VXi variants. Only VXi+ offers the touchscreen infotainment system.
The S-Presso is your family’s agile city-hopper, cleverly designed to tackle traffic with its energetic 998cc engine and easy AMT option. With a generous 180mm ground clearance, it shrugs off bad roads like a champ.
Inside, the 7-inch SmartPlay display keeps you connected. Meanwhile, the high seating and surprising cabin space turn your daily commute into a genuinely comfortable drive. It is the best option among the most affordable cars in India.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | 1-star Global NCAP safety rating |
| Fuel-efficient | Basic interiors in lower variants |
| Practical for city driving | Limited boot space compared to bigger cars |
2. Maruti Alto K10
- Launch Year: The current third-generation Alto K10 was launched in August 2022
- On Road Price: ₹4.13 Lakh to ₹6.60 Lakh
- Variants: STD, LXI, VXI, VXI AT, VXI Plus, LXI S-CNG, VXI S-CNG, VXI Plus AT
The Alto K10 is the ultimate efficiency champion, turning daily drives into budget wins with its spectacular mileage—especially the CNG option offering nearly 34 km/kg. The optional 7-inch SmartPlay screen injects modern convenience into your drive.
Driving through tight city spaces is a breeze thanks to its compact size. It’s engineered to make personal mobility accessible and economical for everyone. It is perfect for a family with small children and for daily commuting.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fuel-efficient | Basic interiors in lower trims |
| Compact and easy to drive | Limited rear-seat space |
| Affordable On Road Price | No diesel variant |
3. Renault Kwid
- Launch Year: 2015
- On Road Price: ₹4.74 Lakh to ₹6.84 Lakh
- Variants: RXE, RXL, RXL (O), RXT, Climber, and Climber Dual Tone. The top Dual Tone variant adds sporty styling and AMT convenience.
The Kwid is your personal urban SUV, delivering the confidence of high ground clearance (184mm) and bold styling without the high costs. Its efficient 1.0L engine and convenient AMT make city driving relaxed and frugal.
The spacious cabin and large 8-inch touchscreen ensure you and your passengers stay comfortable and connected, even on bumpy roads. It is best for comfort and for an SUV experience in a Hatchback.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact size and light steering make it easy to drive and park in cities | Steering lacks feedback, less confidence-inspiring on highways |
| Offers modern features rarely seen in entry-level cars | Limited rear-seat storage and no rear door pockets |
| Good fuel efficiency and SUV-like aesthetics | No manual mode in AMT variants |
| Spacious cabin with decent boot space for the segment | Build quality is average for the price; not very rugged |
| Comfortable ride quality with good suspension for Indian roads | May feel underpowered on highways with a full load |
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4. Tata Tiago
- Launch Year: 2016
- On Road Price: ₹5.61 Lakh to ₹9.56 Lakh
- Variants: Offered in Petrol, CNG, and Electric options with 5-speed manual or AMT. Main 2025 variants are XE, XM, XT, XZ, XZ Plus, and Tiago.ev.
The Tiago offers a unique blend of robust safety and contemporary tech, giving families true confidence on the road with its impressive 4-star Global NCAP rating. And best of all, you can choose between the efficient CNG model and the zippy EV.
The driving experience is enhanced by the large touchscreen and cruise control. All of the features of this car are designed to make every journey—from a quick grocery run to a long weekend drive—feel connected and effortless.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong safety scores are rare in the segment | Engine power is modest compared to competitors |
| Spacious interiors with a premium feel for its class | Diesel variant discontinued |
| Fuel-efficient petrol and CNG engine options | Rear seat headroom is slightly limited |
| Smooth gearbox options, including AMT | Rides can be firm on bad roads |
5. Maruti Celerio
- Launch Year: 2014
- On Road Price: ₹5.22 Lakh to ₹8.10 Lakh
- Variants: LXI, VXI, VXI AMT, ZXI, ZXI AMT, ZXI Plus, ZXI Plus AMT, and VXI CNG.
The Celerio cleverly combines India’s best-in-class mileage (up to 34.43 km/kg CNG) with a major safety boost: segment-first 6 airbags. This shift proves that efficiency doesn’t demand compromise.
Its refined K10C engine and optional AMT make daily urban driving light and incredibly economical. And all these features ensure you get the ultimate peace of mind without a hefty price tag.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent fuel efficiency, especially with the CNG variant | Basic styling, conservative design |
| Segment-first 6 airbags for comprehensive safety | Limited rear-seat comfort for taller passengers |
| AMT automatic option available for city convenience | No diesel option |
| Modern infotainment and smart connectivity features | Interior materials and a finish feel basic in lower variants |
| Comfortable for urban commuting, low maintenance | Handling and ride quality are better suited for the city than the highways |
6. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
- Launch Year: 2019
- On Road Price: ₹6.13 Lakh to ₹9.53 Lakh
- Variants: Petrol variants: Era, Magna, Corporate, Sportz, Sportz (O), Asta. Diesel variants have been discontinued in the latest launches.
The smooth 82 bhp petrol engine offers practical mileage for daily commutes, while the CNG option maximises fuel savings. Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX mounts prioritise family security.
For comfort, features like automatic climate control and a smartphone-compatible touchscreen make every journey effortless and connected. This hatchback blends efficiency with essential human-centric convenience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious cabin with comfortable seats and premium features for the segment | Diesel variant discontinued, limiting fuel options |
| Smooth petrol engine with good fuel efficiency and reliability | AMT can be slow and jerky at times |
| Well-rounded feature list, including touchscreen infotainment and safety features | The rear and middle seats are not very comfortable due to the transmission tunnel |
| Easy to drive and park, suitable for city and highway use | Lower variants lack advanced tech and safety features |
| Strong after-sales network and brand trust for Hyundai in India | Boot space is reduced in the CNG variant due to tank placement |
7. Tata Altroz
- Launch Year: 2020
- On Road Price: ₹7.04 Lakh to ₹13.21 Lakh
- Variants: Base to premium variants, including Smart, Pure, Creative, Accomplished S, and Accomplished Plus S. Available in petrol, diesel, and CNG powertrains
Tata Altroz is one of the best in the newer generation of the most affordable cars in India. This car redefines budget driving by pairing best-in-class, family-first safety—confirmed by a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and 6 airbags—with true convenience.
Choose your perfect powertrain, from economical CNG to punchy diesel. The sophisticated 10.25-inch screen and 360-degree camera make urban driving smart, comfortable, and stress-free for the entire family.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent safety features and ratings are uncommon in this segment | Higher starting price compared to some rivals |
| Refined interiors and a premium cabin feel | Turbo petrol variant discontinued after the 2025 model year |
| Multiple powertrain options, including efficient diesel and CNG variants | Rear seat headroom can be tight for tall passengers |
| Strong build quality with modern design language | Diesel engine NVH is noticeable under hard acceleration |
| Good driving dynamics and ride comfort for a hatchback | Some feature availability restrictions across variants |
Most Affordable Compact SUVs in India 2025
Now that we have looked at the most affordable hatchbacks, let’s move on to compact SUVs. Here are the most affordable SUVs that you can buy in India:
8. Maruti Suzuki Ignis
- Launch Year: 2017
- On Road Price: ₹6.06 Lakh to ₹9.01 Lakh
- Variants: Sigma, Delta, Delta AMT, Delta Dual Tone AMT, Zeta, Zeta Dual Tone, Zeta AMT, Zeta Dual Tone AMT, Alpha, Alpha Dual Tone, Alpha AMT, and Alpha Dual Tone AMT (top)
Designed for the daily grind, this hatchback/compact SUV prioritises frugal, reliable performance. It delivers over 20 km/l from its 1.2L petrol engine. The light steering, paired with manual or convenient AMT, makes city traffic manageable.
The car comes with many crucial safety features like dual airbags and a high-strength body. These features offer peace of mind for you and your passengers. This car is a good reminder that you don’t have to sacrifice safety for affordability.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact size and high ground clearance (180 mm) are ideal for urban and rough roads | Engine acceleration is slow beyond 80 km/h |
| High seating position providing excellent visibility | Vibrations are noticeable under heavy acceleration |
| Class-leading fuel efficiency (~21 km/l) | Ride quality can be bumpy on poor road surfaces |
| Smooth automated manual transmission with responsive gear shifts | Interior plastics and materials feel basic |
| Multiple customisation options, youthful SUV-like styling | Steering feedback is light and less communicative on highways |
9. Nissan Magnite
- Launch Year: 2020
- On Road Price: ₹5.62 Lakh to ₹10.76 Lakh
- Variants: Around 28 variants, including Visia, Acenta, N Connecta, Tekna, and KURO Editions
Safety meets choice in this bold SUV, earning a 5-star Global NCAP rating for peace of mind. Commuters benefit from a range of power options, including an economical 24 km/kg CNG variant and convenient automatics.
Features like a 360-degree camera and 205 mm ground clearance enhance daily driving confidence and comfort. The car is designed to make your journey safe, secure, and enjoyable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong value for money with feature-packed trims | Ride quality can feel firm and bumpy over rough roads |
| Spacious and well-equipped interiors with ample passenger space | NVH levels are higher than some rivals, especially in turbo petrol models |
| Multiple transmission and fuel options | Absence of sunroof and panoramic glass roof options |
| Good safety features and ratings | Some features, like 6 airbags, are missing on lower variants |
| Peppy turbo petrol engine variant with CVT option | AMT can be jerky in city traffic |
10. Tata Punch
- Launch Year: 2021
- On Road Price: ₹6.6 Lakh to ₹12.4 Lakh
- Variants: 35 variants grouped into 4 main trims: Pure, Adventure, Accomplished, Creative
Cleverly designed for the daily drive, this compact SUV balances financial sense with genuine utility. The 26.99 km/kg CNG efficiency and choice of manual/AMT transmissions ease city commuting.
Meanwhile, the high 187 mm ground clearance is best among the most affordable cars in India. It is designed to confidently tackle rough roads. Essential safety, a comfortable 366-litre boot, and the premium Harman audio system enhance every journey.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Turf-inspired styling with a trendy SUV look | Lack of turbo petrol or diesel options limits performance choices |
| Spacious and practical cabin with good boot space | An AMT gearbox can feel jerky compared to conventional automatics or CVTs |
| Strong road presence and stable on highways and city roads | A firm suspension setup can be bumpy on rough roads |
| Multiple safety features and good crash test ratings | Limited rear-seat amenities such as AC vents and cup holders |
| Smooth petrol engine with decent fuel economy | After-sales service experience can be inconsistent |
11. Renault Kiger
- Launch Year: 2021
- On Road Price: ₹6.39 Lakh to ₹12.74 Lakh
- Variants: Four persona-based trims: Authentic (base), Evolution, Techno, Emotion (top)
Renault Kiger’s 1.0L turbo-petrol (100 hp) with CVT delivers an engaging drive. It is designed to balance performance with real-world mileage of ~12-17 km/l. This compact SUV is good for vacation travel and intercity journeys.
For occupants, the focus is on ease and safety, offering six airbags, ventilated seats, and rear AC vents. Practicality is assured with a large, expandable 405 L boot. The boot seamlessly blends daily utility with a comfortable journey.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious cabin with a large boot and practical storage | NVH levels can be high; road and engine noise are noticeable inside the cabin |
| Multiple powertrain options, including turbocharged petrol | Engines feel lethargic when pushed hard, more suited to city driving |
| Feature-rich variants with ventilated seats and advanced infotainment | Missing sunroof, which many competitors offer |
| High ground clearance (claimed 205 mm) suitable for Indian roads | Some variants lack advanced features like 360° cameras and six airbags |
12. Hyundai Exter
- Launch Year: 2023
- On Road Price: ₹6.39 Lakh to ₹12.74 Lakh
- Variants: Available in 10 main variants: EX, EX(O), S EXE, S+ EXE, S Smart, S+, SX Smart, SX, SX(O), SX(O) Connect Knight.
This compact SUV balances eye-catching style with its sharp H-DRLs and genuine peace of mind, thanks to six standard airbags. The refined engine and superior AMT tuning make city driving smooth, while a best-in-segment 391-litre boot handles your luggage.
For budget-conscious users, a 68 bhp CNG option is available. The only con of the CNG option is that, while affordable for long travels, it reduces the excellent boot capacity of the car.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique crossover styling with modern, sharp LED lighting | Missing some comfort features like rear armrests and wireless Android Auto in base variants |
| Loaded with segment-first features, like a dual-camera dashcam and sunroof | CNG variant compromises boot space due to cylinder placement |
| Spacious cabin with impressive boot space | Price overlaps with higher-end Hyundai Venue models |
| Refined 4-cylinder engine delivering smooth driveability | Some interior plastics feel cheap |
| AMT variants have superior gearbox tuning compared to competitors | Small size is not ideal for large families |
13. Kia Syros
- Launch Year: 2025
- On Road Price: ₹9.80 Lakh to ₹18.83 Lakh
- Variants: 13 variants, including HTK, HTK (O), HTK Plus, HTX, HTX Plus, HTX Plus (O), in petrol and diesel options
This vehicle prioritises passenger comfort and technological security. If you are looking at the most affordable cars in India for long journeys, this is the best. It makes a long journey so easy with a panoramic sunroof, ventilated rear seats, and multiple refined transmission options.
For ultimate safety, it includes a six-airbag shield augmented by Level 2 ADAS features like adaptive cruise control. The large triple digital screens transform the driving experience into a seamless, connected one.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large, feature-rich cabin with segment-best rear seat comfort and space | Unique styling might not appeal to all buyers |
| Powerful and refined turbo petrol and diesel engines | Firm suspension tuning can make the ride bumpy on rough roads |
| Class-leading technology and safety features, including Level 2 ADAS | Diesel engine noise and vibration are noticeable under load |
| Strong build quality and premium fit and finish | Missing rear parking sensors in base variants |
| Multiple drive and traction modes for versatility | Higher pricing compared to some rivals |
Most Affordable EVs in India 2025
Two EVs stand out among the list of the most affordable cars in India. In this section, we shall talk about them.
14. Vayve Mobility Eva
- Launch Year: 2025
- On Road Price: ₹3.25 Lakh to ₹4.49 Lakh
- Variants: Nova (Base), Stella (Mid), Vega (Top)
This ultra-compact, 3-seater electric car, unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Expo, is designed for the urban daily grind. Its modest dimensions and 40 Nm torque are perfectly suited for city speeds.
This is India’s first-ever solar car, a unique invention in itself. The solar roof conveniently adds approximately 10 km of range daily. The company plans to begin deliveries in the second half of 2026.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| First solar-powered electric car in India with optional solar charging | Limited seating capacity (3 seats), not suitable for families |
| Very affordable pricing for an electric vehicle | Low top speed restricts highway use |
| Compact, urban-friendly dimensions with a 3-seater configuration | Small size limits cargo and passenger comfort |
| Practical range suitable for city commuting with low running costs (~₹0.5/km) | An intensive battery subscription model may add running costs |
| Advanced internet connectivity and smart features | Deliveries planned for mid to late 2026, with limited availability |
15. MG Comet EV
- Launch Year: 2023
- On Road Price: ₹7.50 Lakh to ₹9.56 Lakh
- Variants: Executive (Base), Excite, Excite Fast Charge (FC), Exclusive, Exclusive Fast Charge (FC), Blackstorm Edition (Special edition)
Tackling urban travel, this compact EV offers approximately 230 km on its $17.3 kWh battery, ideal for daily commutes. The 42 bhp/110 Nm motor and electronic stability control ensure smooth, safe city drives.
Inside, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity provides a modern, human-centric driving experience for all four occupants. It is fun, small, and an interesting choice for a family looking for affordable and sustainable car options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable compact electric car suitable for city commuting | Limited range (~230 km) is unsuitable for long-distance travel |
| Dedicated EV platform with better space utilisation | Rear bench seating is tight for three adults |
| Premium features like a large touchscreen, connectivity, and safety aids | Limited boot space due to compact dimensions |
| Easy manoeuvrability and light steering are ideal for urban traffic | Ride quality can be firm due to a short wheelbase |
| Multiple drive modes and regenerative braking for range optimisation | Waiting period and availability are constrained due to EV demand |
Let’s Talk about the Role of EVs in the Automotive Industry
Electric vehicles (EVs) play an increasingly central role in the transformation of the global automotive industry. As we are moving forward, the industry is being driven by environmental, economic, and technological factors.
EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, critically reducing carbon footprints compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. EV adoption supports climate change mitigation and cleaner energy usage, especially when coupled with renewable electricity sources.
And beyond that, they are cost-effective to produce. In a few years, it is safe to assume that most affordable cars in India will be electric. Low cost of production reduces the cost of buying cars, as a result, which is why people are so interested in buying EVs.
In 2024, over 17 million electric cars were sold globally, exceeding 20% of new car sales worldwide. The global electric fleet is reaching nearly 58 million vehicles.
Future Outlook of the Automobile Industry
We took a deep dive into the most affordable cars in India; now, let’s look to the future of the automobile industry. Let’s take a quick look at what the future holds for the car industry.
According to McKinsey, global vehicle sales will continue growing but at a moderate pace (~2% annually), with new business models like shared mobility expanding revenue pools by up to $1.5 trillion by 2030.
As for the Indian automotive industry, the automobile exports in FY25 rose 19% to over 5.3 million units, mainly passenger vehicles, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles.
Many surveys show that electrification will dominate the market. The battery prices are expected to drop, and electric powertrains are making wide inroads, supported by tighter emission norms and government policies favouring EVs.
Conclusion:
The current Indian auto market proves that affordability no longer means compromise. We’ve seen that smart engineering delivers features like six airbags, premium connectivity, and strong safety ratings across a variety of segments. Now you know that you have options in hatchbacks, compact SUVs, and EVs, regardless of your budget. This makes finding the most affordable cars in India easier for every buyer.
The future is clearly moving toward electrification, blending financial savings with environmental responsibility. As battery costs drop and new innovations like solar-powered mobility emerge, high-value, feature-rich options will become the standard. Now is the perfect time to choose your next vehicle from the list of the most affordable cars in India.
FAQs
1. What is the real-world range of the MG Comet EV?
The claimed range is 230 km, but in real-world city driving conditions, the MG Comet EV typically delivers a range of about 180-195 km on a full charge.
2. Which variant of the Tata Tiago has the lowest running cost?
The Tiago EV offers the lowest per-kilometre running cost, making it the top of the list of Tata’s most affordable cars in India. It is significantly cheaper than its CNG and petrol variants, especially when charging at home.
3. Does the S-Presso AMT offer better mileage than its manual variant?
Yes, the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso AMT (Automatic) has a slightly higher ARAI-certified mileage of 25.3 km/l compared to the manual’s 24.12 km/l.
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