While the initial price of a new or used car is a major factor, long-term affordability depends heavily on ownership expenses. A low-maintenance car reduces the total cost of ownership through superior fuel efficiency and minimal service requirements.
Costs vary significantly across segments; differences in spare part pricing and service intervals can impact your budget over time. To simplify your decision, we have identified the top 10 cars with the lowest maintenance costs, ensuring your purchase remains cost-effective for years to come.
Best Low Maintenance Cars in India
| Model | Maintenance Cost | Body Type |
| Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 | Rs 3,000/year | Hatchback |
| Maruti Suzuki S-Presso | Rs 3,000/year | Hatchback |
| Renault Kwid | Rs 2,500/year | Hatchback |
| Maruti Suzuki Wagon R | Rs 3,600/year | Hatchback |
| Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | Rs 3,200/year | Hatchback |
| Nissan Magnite | Rs 3,200/year | SUV |
| Tata Punch | Rs 4,800/year | SUV |
| Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Rs 5,600/year | Hatchback |
| Honda Amaze | Rs 5,600/year | Sedan |
| Hyundai Venue | Rs 3,200/year | SUV |
1. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 | Rs 3,000/year
The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 remains a top choice for those seeking the cheapest cars in India without compromising on reliability. As the successor to the legendary Maruti 800, this hatchback is powered by the efficient K10C engine, available in both manual and AGS (AMT) variants.
For budget-conscious buyers, a second hand Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 also offers an unbeatable balance of performance and affordability. Its compact design ensures effortless city manoeuvrability, while its fuel efficiency of 24.49 kmpl keeps running costs exceptionally low.
Maruti Suzuki Alto K10: Key Maintenance Highlights
- Minimal Maintenance: With annual service costs averaging just ₹3,000, it is one of India’s most cost-effective vehicles.
- Service Intervals: Routine maintenance is required every 10,000 km or one year.
Affordable Spares: Widespread availability of parts and affordable labour make it a stress-free hatchback to own.
2. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso | Rs 3,000/year
The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is the micro-SUV sibling to the Alto K10, built on the robust Heartect platform with the same efficient K10C engine. It distinguishes itself with a tall-boy design that offers superior legroom, headroom, and a generous 240-litre boot.
For buyers seeking a budget-friendly vehicle, a second-hand Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is an ideal choice for reliable daily commutes. It features modern amenities like a touchscreen infotainment system with mobile connectivity in higher variants, ensuring you don't compromise on tech.
Why the S-Presso is a Top Low-Maintenance Choice
- Minimal Upkeep: Average service costs are approximately ₹3,000 per year, solidifying its spot as one of the best low maintenance cars in India.
- High Efficiency: A fuel economy of 24.12 kmpl ensures daily running costs remain highly affordable.
SUV Styling: Offers a commanding seating position and better interior space without the premium price tag.
3. Renault Kwid | Rs 2,500/year
The Renault Kwid stands out with its modernised, SUV-inspired aesthetic and feature-rich cabin. It offers premium tech like an 8-inch touchscreen, digital instrumentation, and advanced safety features, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and a reverse parking camera. With an impressive 184mm ground clearance and a 279-litre boot, it balances style with everyday utility.
For buyers seeking value, a second hand Renault Kwid is also an excellent choice for a low-maintenance car that doesn't compromise on features. It remains one of the most budget-friendly options for urban commuting and occasional weekend trips.
Renault Kwid: Low Maintenance Highlights
- Minimal Service Costs: With three labour-free services, the average maintenance cost is approximately ₹2,500 per year over five years, helping the Kwid shine as one of the best low maintenance cars in India.
- Service Intervals: Recommended maintenance every 10,000 km or one year ensures the vehicle remains in peak condition.
- Fuel Economy: A healthy efficiency of 21.7 kmpl ensures that daily running costs stay low for petrol users.
4. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R | Rs 3,600/year
The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R continues to be a top choice for families, offering a perfect blend of reliability and space. In its latest generation, it features a more attractive design and the option of a powerful 1.2-litre K12N engine. Its standout feature is the massive 341-litre boot, making it one of the most practical hatchbacks in its segment.
A second hand Maruti Suzuki Wagon R is a smart investment for those seeking a dependable vehicle with high resale value. It remains a favourite for city driving due to its airy cabin and excellent visibility.
Why the Wagon R is a Low-Maintenance Favourite
- Affordable Servicing: With the first service labour-free, the average maintenance cost is roughly ₹3,600 per year over a five-year period.
- Exceptional Efficiency: Delivering up to 24.35 kmpl, it is a leading contender among the best low maintenance cars in India.
Engine Versatility: Buyers can choose between the fuel-efficient 1.0L or the more spirited 1.2L engine without significant hikes in upkeep costs.
5. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | Rs 3,200/year
The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is a stylish, feature-rich hatchback favoured by young professionals. It blends modern aesthetics, like LED DRLs and projector headlamps, with a contemporary interior featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. It offers a peppy driving experience without compromising on cabin space or passenger comfort.
For those prioritising quality and value, a second hand Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is also an excellent investment. It provides a premium feel at a competitive price point, making it a standout choice in the used car market.
Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: Maintenance & Efficiency
- Low Service Costs: With the first two services being labour-free, the average annual maintenance cost is approximately ₹3,200 over five years.
- Service Schedule: Hyundai recommends routine maintenance every 10,000 km or once a year to ensure long-term reliability.
Fuel Versatility: Available in both Petrol and CNG variants, it delivers a solid fuel efficiency of 20.7 kmpl, keeping running expenses predictable.
6. Nissan Magnite | Rs 3,200/year
The Nissan Magnite is a standout compact SUV that offers high-end features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay at a competitive price. Known for Japanese reliability, it provides a solid value proposition with two engine choices: a practical 1.0-litre naturally aspirated engine and a more spirited turbocharged variant.
For those seeking a practical yet modern vehicle, a second hand Nissan Magnite is an ideal choice. It offers the ground clearance and presence of an SUV while maintaining the running costs of a much smaller car, making it a favourite in the pre-owned market.
Why the Nissan Magnite is a Low-Maintenance Choice
- Reliable Engineering: As a Japanese-engineered product, the Magnite is built for durability and long-term performance.
- Predictable Service Costs: Maintenance averages between ₹3,200 (NA engine) and ₹3,400 (Turbo engine) per year, placing it among the best low maintenance cars in India.
- Transmission Variety: Whether you prefer a Manual, AMT, or a smooth CVT, the Magnite offers low maintenance automatic options that are easy on the wallet.
7. Tata Punch | Rs 4,800/year
The Tata Punch has become a sensation in India, blending bold SUV styling with premium features like a voice-activated sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, and auto headlamps. It offers a robust package that combines a high-riding stance with a feature-rich cabin, making it a leader in its segment.
For buyers looking for durability and comfort, a second hand Tata Punch is an excellent choice. It provides a premium driving experience and a solid safety feel, making it a highly sought-after model in the pre-owned market.
Why the Tata Punch is a Low-Maintenance Choice
- Extended Service Intervals: Unlike most competitors, the Punch has a 15,000 km service interval, allowing for more driving between workshop visits.
- High Mileage Advantage: With an average maintenance cost of ₹4,800 per year, it covers up to 75,000 km over five years, offering 50% more travel for your money compared to rivals.
Free Services: Tata provides three labour-free services within the first year or 15,000 km, significantly lowering initial ownership costs.
8. Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Rs 5,600/year
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno defines the premium hatchback segment, blending sophisticated LED lighting and advanced connectivity with a spirited 1.2L naturally aspirated engine. It offers a refined driving experience while maintaining the practicality expected of a top-tier family car.
A used Maruti Suzuki Baleno is a premier choice for those seeking modern tech and a premium feel without the high price tag. Its combination of luxury and long-term reliability makes it highly desirable for urban commuters.
Baleno: Premium Quality, Low Maintenance
- Extensive Network: Benefit from the widest service network in India, ensuring hassle-free and affordable maintenance.
- Fuel Efficiency: Delivering an impressive 22.35 kmpl, it stands out as one of the best low maintenance cars in India in the premium category.
Predictable Costs: Maintenance is streamlined with 10,000 km service intervals and an average annual cost of approximately ₹5,600.
9. Honda Amaze | Rs 5,600/year
The Honda Amaze stands out as the only sedan on this list, offering a more premium, "regular sedan" silhouette compared to its sub-4-meter rivals. Unlike the competition, it is rarely used by fleet operators, ensuring a more exclusive ownership experience. Powered by a proven 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, it delivers a refined performance that is synonymous with Honda’s global reputation for reliability.
For buyers seeking long-term value, a used Honda Amaze provides a sophisticated cabin and superior ride quality at a fraction of the cost of a new car. Its balanced dimensions and spacious 416-litre boot make it a highly practical choice for small families.
Honda Amaze: Maintenance & Reliability
- Predictable Servicing: Honda recommends a service interval of 10,000 km or one year. With the first service being labour-free, annual maintenance costs average around ₹5,600.
- Refined CVT: The Amaze features a smooth CVT automatic option which, while slightly more expensive to fuel, offers segment-leading urban driveability with low long-term upkeep.
Proven Longevity: Known for high-quality components, the Amaze is a "fill-it, shut-it, forget-it" vehicle that retains excellent resale value.
10. Hyundai Venue | Rs 3,200/year
The Hyundai Venue is a versatile compact SUV offering space, comfort, and reliability across various price points. It stands out as the only vehicle on this list with a diverse engine lineup, including naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol, and diesel options.
For those seeking style and practicality, a second hand Hyundai Venue is an exceptional choice. This pre-owned vehicle delivers premium features and a robust service network at a fraction of the cost of a new model.
Hyundai Venue: Versatility & Maintenance
- Low Service Costs: Hyundai's reputation for affordability continues here, with petrol maintenance averaging ₹3,200 per year and diesel variants around ₹4,000.
- Initial Savings: To keep ownership costs low from day one, Hyundai includes two labour-free services.
Performance Choices: From the punchy turbo-petrol to the frugal diesel, the Venue is one of the best low maintenance cars in India for those wanting a fun SUV experience.
Conclusion
The above list of low maintenance cars mainly takes into consideration factors like service costs that influence their annual running costs. Some of the other factors to determine low maintenance costs are variable, like build quality of a car that can greatly influence the reliability and longevity of components. Do keep in mind that the quoted service costs do not include cost of tyres or replacement of components that are not scheduled in service. Most low maintenance cars will also be affordable and smaller in size, albeit with exceptions.
