Top 15 Cheapest Cars In India 2024 : Price, Mileage, Specifications

In a world where every penny counts, the hunt for a budget-friendly car becomes a difficult pursuit. India's vibrant car market has witnessed a remarkable shift in recent years, with automakers constantly trying to meet the ever-changing demands of price-conscious consumers. As a result, the Indian automobile market is continuously growing with affordable, efficient, and stylish vehicles that won't break the bank. Whether you're a first-time car buyer or a seasoned car enthusiast, this blog is your roadmap to discovering the cheapest cars in India in 2024.

Best Cheapest Cars in India in 2024

1. Maruti Alto 800

Starting Price: ₹3.54 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

For anyone looking for a simple and a reliable city commuter, the Maruti Alto 800 is an excellent choice. This hatchback not only claims the throne as the cheapest car in the country but also boasts an impressive track record as one of India’s best-selling vehicles. 

Buyers of the Maruti Alto 800 have two engine options: the 0.8L F8D Petrol and 0.8L F8D Bi-Fuel CNG. The petrol version is claimed to produce 47.3 bhp of power and 69 Nm of maximum torque, while the CNG version delivers 40 bhp of power and 60 Nm of peak torque. Both of these engines are only available with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Alto 800 is also renowned for its remarkable fuel efficiency.

Maruti Alto 800 Key Specifications

Maruti Alto 800 Key Features:

What’s Good:

• VFM pricing
• Reliable engine options
• Cheap service and parts

What’s Not Good:

• Not so a spacious cabin
• Poor high-speed performance
• No automatic variants on sale

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Alto 800 Cars in India.

2. Maruti Alto K10

Starting Price: ₹3.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Maruti Alto K10 is one of the cheapest cars India, redefining affordability without compromising on performance. This stylish hatchback not only goes easy on your wallet but also promises a delightful driving experience. The Maruti Alto K10 is equipped with a 1.0L K-Series Petrol engine that delivers an impressive 67 bhp of power and 90 Nm of torque, setting it apart in terms of sheer performance within the segment. 

Paired with a responsive 5-speed manual transmission, this engine ensures an exhilarating drive, whether you're navigating city traffic or hitting the open highway. What makes the Alto K10 a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers is its exceptional fuel efficiency.

Maruti Alto K10 Key Specifications

Maruti Alto K10 Key Features:

What’s Good:

• Compact dimensions make it an excellent city car
• Impressive fuel economy
• Cheap long-term maintenance

What’s Not Good:

• Missing features
• Slow and jerky amt gearbox
• Interiors feel cheap

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Alto K10 Cars in India.

3. Maruti S-Presso

Starting Price: ₹4.26 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Combining the charm of a compact car with the practicality of an SUV, the S-Presso redefines affordable mobility without compromising on style and convenience. At the heart of this urban commuter is a potent 1.0L K10B Petrol engine, packing a punch with 67 bhp of power and 90 Nm of torque.

The S-Presso is paired with a user-friendly 5-speed manual or an automatic gearbox, offering both efficiency and ease of driving. The engine is sturdy and provides a zippy and engaging performance, making city commutes and weekend getaways a breeze.

Maruti S-Presso Key Specifications

Maruti S-Presso Key Features:

What’s Good:

• Compact dimensions make it a practical city commuter
• Comfortable front-row seating
• Reliable and peppy K10 motor

What’s Not Good:

• Poor build quality
• Bad NVH levels

Check out our collection of Used Maruti S Presso Cars in India.

4. Renault Kwid

Starting Price: ₹4.69 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Renault Kwid redefines value and innovation without compromising on style and features. The Kwid boasts a potent 1.0-litre SCe Petrol engine, generating an impressive 67 bhp of power and 91 Nm of torque. This engine ensures that every drive is an exhilarating experience. The Kwid offers the convenience of both a 5-speed manual and an automatic gearbox, catering to various driving preferences.

With its SUV-inspired styling, it exudes a sense of adventure, while remaining compact enough for nimble city driving. The distinctive front grille, sleek headlamps, and bold wheel arches give it a solid road presence. Furthermore, its growing popularity in the Indian market adds to its impressive resale value, making it a smart financial choice for prospective buyers.

Renault Kwid Key Specifications

Renault Kwid Key Features:

What’s Good:

• Smart and rugged exterior styling
• Spacious and comfortable cabin
• Sorted dynamics and high-speed stability

What’s Not Good:

• No CNG variant
• Hit or a miss after-sales service
• Inconsistent build quality

Check out our collection of Used Renault Kwid Cars in India.

5. Maruti Celerio

Starting Price: ₹5.37 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The all-new Maruti Celerio embodies a new era of budget-friendly hatchbacks, boasting an updated platform, powerful engine options, refreshed exterior aesthetics, and a practical cabin loaded with cutting-edge features and equipment.

Its bold styling, enhanced exterior colour choices, and improved build quality make it a compelling choice in this segment. Features such as push-button start, keyless entry, and idle start-stop technology cater to convenience and efficiency. What truly distinguishes the Celerio is its exceptional performance and class-leading fuel economy. 

Maruti Celerio Key Specifications

Maruti Celerio Key Features:

What’s Good:

• Comfortable and feature-rich cabin
• Reliable and fuel-efficient engine options
• Dependable after-sales support

What’s Not Good:

• CNG only offered with the VXI variant
• Not so great safety, especially when compared to the Tiago
• Missing features like rear-camera

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Celerio Cars in India.

6. Maruti WagonR

Starting Price: ₹5.54 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

When it comes to practical and dependable family hatchbacks in India, the Maruti WagonR has earned its stripes, thanks to its distinctive tall design and spacious interior. With an attractive starting price of ₹5.54 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the WagonR not only stands out in its segment but also competes admirably with rivals such as the Renault Kwid and Tata Tiago. 

What sets the WagonR apart is its versatile engine options. Unlike many other Maruti models, it offers a range of choices to suit various driving preferences. You can pick from two petrol engines – the 1.0L K10C or the 1.2L K12C – in addition to a 1.0L Bi-Fuel CNG engine. In terms of performance, all engine options deliver solid results, making the WagonR a reliable choice for diverse driving needs. However, it's the 1.2L K12C engine that truly stands out, offering impressive acceleration and refinement, making it an excellent choice for those who value both power and smooth driving.

Maruti WagonR Key Specifications

Maruti WagonR Key Features 

What’s Good:

• Tall-Boy styling and high-ground clearance make it a practical urban commuter
• Reliable and frugal powertrain options
• Low service costs

What’s Not Good:

• Strictly average build quality
• Missing essential features
• 1-star GNCAP safety rating

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Wagon R 1.0 Cars in India.

7. Tata Tiago

Starting Price: ₹5.60 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Tata Tiago has carved a niche for itself in the Indian automotive landscape and is appreciated for its robust construction, practical interiors, versatile engine options, and an impressive array of features. With its recent facelift, the Tiago has unveiled an even more polished and stylish design, elevating its visual appeal and giving it a competitive edge that outshines many of its counterparts.

Beneath the hood, the Tiago offers a standard 1.2L Revotron petrol engine, complemented by an optional 1.2L Bi-Fuel CNG engine for those seeking an eco-friendly alternative. Both engine options are paired with a reliable 5-speed manual gearbox as standard while the petrol version also offers a 5-speed AMT transmission option, making city commutes effortless.

Tata Tiago Key Specifications

Tata Tiago Key Features

What’s Good:

• Excellent build quality and GNCAP safety ratings
• Spacious and comfortable cabin
• Sorted dynamics and high-speed stability

What’s Not Good:

• Unreliable after-sales support
• Jerky AMT gearbox

Check out our collection of Used Tata Tiago Cars in India.

8. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Starting Price: ₹5.73 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is one of the cheapest Hyundai cars on sale in India and offers a smart styling along with practical and feature-rich interiors. This car isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about doing so with style, comfort, and confidence, making it the preferred choice for budget-conscious buyers. It offers two engine options: the 1.2L Kappa petrol and the 1.2L Bi-Fuel CNG. Its compact size, excellent build quality, and premium interior are just a few of the factors that make it an excellent choice for city commuting.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Key Specifications

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Key Features

What’s Good:

• Segment-best fit and finish
• Reliable and refined powertrain options
• Feature-rich

What’s Not Good: 

• Not so frugal petrol engine
• Expensive higher variants
• Not-so-great ride and handling

Check out our collection of Used Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Cars in India.

9. Maruti Ignis

Starting Price: ₹3.54 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

For those who yearn for a compact and unconventional car that combines style, distinctive design, and exhilarating performance, the new Maruti Ignis emerges as an enticing choice. The Ignis is not your typical hatchback; it's a unique blend of personality and power that stands out from the crowd, making it a front-runner among affordable compact cars in India. The Ignis is powered by a spirited 1.2-litre K12C engine, delivering a peppy performance that's bound to put a smile on your face. What truly sets it apart for enthusiasts is its rigid suspension and precise steering, making it an agile and responsive car on the road. 

With a starting price of ₹5.84 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the new Ignis is exclusively available through Maruti's premium NEXA network, placing it in competition with rivals like the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch. While the cabin may not boast abundant space, it efficiently accommodates four adults, ensuring practicality without compromising on comfort. The Ignis combines its compact dimensions with impressive ground clearance, making it a practical choice for navigating varied terrains with ease.

Maruti Ignis Key Specifications

Maruti Ignis Key Features:

What’s Good:

• Peppy and refined engine
• High ground clearance and compact footprint
• Cheap service and parts

What’s Not Good:

• Not so spacious cabin
• No turbo petrol or CNG powertrain option
• Build quality is strictly average

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Ignis Cars in India.

10. Tata Punch

Starting Price: ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Tata Punch is a bold and dynamic contender that locks horns with established rivals like the Maruti Ignis and the Hyundai Exter. This compact powerhouse shares its platform with the Altroz. Under the hood, the Tata Punch is equipped with the trusted engine line-up found in the Tata Tiago, which includes the 1.2L Revotron petrol and the 1.2L iCNG Bi-Fuel options. 

One of the standout features of the Tata Punch is its suspension setup, which contributes to an exceptional ride quality, setting a benchmark in its segment. Whether you're planning to use it for city commute or highway drives, the Punch offers a ride experience that is hard to match, promising comfort and confidence.

Tata Punch Key Specifications

Tata Punch Key Features

What’s Good:

• Build quality and five-star safety
• Tried and tested powertrain options
• Spacious and comfortable cabin

What’s Not Good:

• No turbo petrol option 
• Fit and finish could have been better
• After-sales support is not the best

Check out our collection of Used Tata Punch Cars in India.

11. Maruti Suzuki Swift

Starting Price: ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Maruti Suzuki Swift, a name synonymous with hatchback excellence, continues to captivate enthusiasts across India. The Swift boasts a strong and consistent performance, complemented by refined engine options that offer a pleasurable driving experience. Its practical cabin easily accommodates both passengers and cargo and helps it attract more buyers in the segment. While Swift's performance and practicality have earned it a loyal following, it does have a few areas where it falls short. The build quality and fit-finish levels, though acceptable, might not match the expectations of more discerning buyers. Additionally, the AMT gearbox can be occasionally jerky, which could be a point of contention for some drivers.

Maruti Suzuki Swift Key Specifications

Maruti Suzuki Swift Key Features

What’s Good:

• Strong performance and refined engine options
• Spacious and practical cabin
• Sorted dynamics

What’s Not Good:

• Poor build quality
• Fit-finish levels should have been better
• Jerky AMT

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Suzuki Swift Cars in India.

12. Hyundai Exter

Starting Price: ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Hyundai Exter, Hyundai's latest offering, steps into the limelight as a compact and dynamic contender in the Indian automotive scene. With a striking blend of features and functionality, this car is set to make its mark among city commuters and tech-savvy drivers. Under the hood, the Exter offers a choice between a 1.2L Kappa Petrol engine and a 1.2L Bi-Fuel CNG engine, catering to diverse driving preferences. The 1.2L Petrol engine churns out a healthy 82 bhp of power, ensuring spirited drives, while the CNG variant provides an eco-conscious choice with 68 bhp. Both engine options are paired with a reliable 5-speed manual transmission, offering precise control over your drives. Additionally, the 1.2L Petrol version provides the convenience of a 5-speed AMT, making city commutes effortlessly smooth.

Hyundai Exter Key Specifications

Hyundai Exter Key Features

What’s Good:

• Extensive features list
• Refined petrol motor
• Compact dimensions and high ground clearance make it a great city commuter

What’s Not Good:

• Average build quality
• High-speed dynamics could have been better

Check out our collection of Used Hyundai Cars in India

13. Citroen C3

Starting Price: ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

With a stunning design profile and features that enhance your driving experience, the C3 brings a touch of European sophistication to the streets of India. Under the hood, the C3 offers two engine options, a 1.2-litre NA Petrol and a 1.2-litre turbo petrol. The NA Petrol engine boasts 80 bhp and 115 Nm of torque, delivering a balanced and efficient performance. On the other hand, the turbo petrol engine elevates the driving experience with 108 bhp and 190 Nm of torque. The C3 offers screen mirroring, remote keyless entry, and crucial safety features like ABS and EBD. In addition, the compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay ensures that you remain connected while on the road. One of the standout features of the C3 is its excellent suspension setup, which translates into a smooth and comfortable ride, even on challenging road surfaces. The cabin offers ample space and comfort, making long journeys a breeze.

Citroen C3 Key Specifications

Citroen C3 Key Features

What’s Good:

• Excellent suspension setup
• Spacious and comfortable cabin
• Smart exterior styling

What’s Not Good:

• Missing features
• Long term reliability is unknown
• After-sales support not as good as the rivals

Also Read : Citroen C3 Safety Rating: Adult & Child Protection Score

14. Tata Tigor

Starting Price: ₹6.30 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

With a design that exudes sophistication and a host of features to enhance your driving experience, the Tigor stands as a compelling choice for anyone looking for a safe and well-built compact sedan in India. The Tigor ensures affordability without compromising on quality and performance. It combines a bold and modern design with the robust underpinnings that Tata vehicles are known for, ensuring a dependable and comfortable ride.

Tata Tigor Key Specifications

Tata Tigor Key Features

What’s Good:

• Strong build quality
• VFM pricing
• Efficient CNG engine

What’s Not Good:

• Average rear seat space
• Missing features like wireless charging pad, auto-dimming IRVM, etc

Check out our collection of Used Tata Tigor cars in India

15. Hyundai Aura

Starting Price: ₹6.32 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

In the quest for a practical yet stylish sedan, the Hyundai Aura emerges as a solid choice for the budget-conscious buyers. Starting at a competitive ₹6.32 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the base model, the new Aura shares its underpinnings and engine options with the Grand i10 Nios, ensuring a reliable and efficient performance. What sets the Aura apart is its distinctive design, standing out in a sea of compact sedans with its clean and stylish exterior.

Hyundai Aura Key Specifications

Hyundai Aura Key Features

What’s Good:

• Premium cabin and impressive fit-finish levels
• Refined and reliable powertrain options
• Comprehensive features list

What’s Not Good:

• Mediocre ride quality
• Average safety
• Missing features like TPMS

Check out our collection of Used Hyundai Aura cars in India

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Budget Car

• Car service records
• Accidental history
• Odometer readings
• Exterior and interior condition
• Powertrain and clutch condition
• Suspension noise and steering rack condition

The Bottom Line

Finding a budget-friendly car that doesn't compromise on quality or style has become easier than ever. From the affordable and efficient Maruti Alto 800 to the peppy Maruti Alto K10, the feature-packed Renault Kwid, and the versatile Maruti Celerio and WagonR, there's a hatchback to fit various preferences and budgets.

For those who favour something unique, the Maruti Ignis offers a distinctive design and spirited performance, while the Tata Punch helps make your daily drives a little more adventurous. The Maruti Swift remains a benchmark for excellent hatchbacks, delivering strong performance and practicality.

Compact sedans like the Tata Tigor and Hyundai Aura provide affordability without sacrificing build quality or performance. Hyundai's Exter and the Citroen C3 introduce European sophistication with stylish designs and tech-savvy features.

In conclusion, the Indian car market has something for everyone, ensuring you get the best value for your money without compromising on your needs, whether it's a city commuter or a versatile family car.

FAQs

Which is the best cheapest car in india?

The Maruti Alto 800 is the cheapest car in India.

Which car is best under ₹5 lakh?

The Maruti Alto K10, Renault Kwid and the Maruti S-Presso are a few of the best cars under ₹5 Lakh in India.

Which are the most affordable cars for beginners?

The Maruti 800, Alto, and WagonR are some of the most affordable cars for beginners.