Top 10 Low Maintenance Cars in India - Maruti Alto to Tata Tiago

Welcome to the ultimate guide on the best low-maintenance cars in India for 2024! If you're in search of a car that requires minimal upkeep and offers long-term affordability, you're at the right place. Our blog will provide you with all the information you need to find the perfect ride that fits your budget and saves you valuable time and money on maintenance expenses.

Whether you're considering used cars or looking for the most sought-after models in India, we've got you covered. We understand the importance of factors like fuel efficiency and reliability when it comes to choosing a low-maintenance vehicle. Get ready to explore the top contenders in the Indian market, ensuring you have the knowledge to make an informed decision.

1. Mahindra KUV100

The Mahindra KUV100 is a stylish and compact 5-seater hatchback known for its unique design and good ground clearance. It is available in both petrol and diesel variants, offering a maximum power of 82 bhp and 77 bhp, respectively. The car comes with manual transmission options for both fuel types.

The KUV100 is equipped with features like an integrated music system, ABS with EBD, dual airbags, and overspeed warning. With a mileage of approximately 18 km/l for petrol and 25 km/l for diesel variants, it offers decent fuel efficiency for city and highway driving.

The Mahindra KUV100 has an estimated average maintenance cost in the market, of approximately ₹14,800 over five years. Regular maintenance services such as oil changes, filter replacements, and periodic check-ups are recommended to keep the car running smoothly and minimise maintenance expenses.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹6.18 lakh onwards

Key Specifications of Mahindra KUV100

Key Features of Mahindra KUV100

What's Good:

• Unique and modern design
• Good ground clearance
• Spacious cabin

What's Not Good:

• Some users may find the cabin space and comfort levels slightly lacking
• NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels could be improved

2. Maruti WagonR

The Maruti WagonR is a low-maintenance hatchback that offers a perfect blend of performance, fuel economy, and affordability. The car comes with a choice of two engines: 1.0L and 1.2L, which deliver a maximum power of 88 bhp (1.2L petrol automatic), 66 bhp (1.0L petrol), and 56 bhp (CNG) along with a torque of 113 Nm @4,400 rpm (1.2L petrol automatic), 89 Nm @3,500 rpm (1.0 petrol), and 82 Nm (CNG). 

It offers a seating capacity of 5 and comes with both manual and automatic transmission options (Petrol) and manual CNG. The WagonR offers an impressive fuel efficiency of 25.19 km/l (petrol manual), 24.43 km/l (petrol automatic), and 34.05 km/kg (CNG). Key features of the car include ABS, EBD, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with a 7-inch touchscreen display.

The Maruti WagonR is reputed to be cost-effective to maintain, with an approximate average maintenance cost of ₹16,890 over five years. Routine maintenance services such as fluid checks, tire rotations, and battery inspections are commonly performed to keep the WagonR in good condition without breaking the bank.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹5.52 lakh onwards

Key Specifications of Maruti WagonR

Key Features of Maruti WagonR

What's Good:

• Comfortable ride quality
• Affordable pricing

What's Not Good:

• Poor NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Suzuki WagonR Cars in India

3. Maruti Alto K10 

The Maruti Alto K10 is a budget-friendly, high-performance, and low-maintenance car that offers excellent fuel economy. It boasts a powerful 1.0L engine that delivers a maximum power of 66 bhp (Petrol) and 56 bhp (CNG) along with a torque of 89 Nm (Petrol) and 82.1 Nm (CNG). The car comes with both manual and automatic transmission options (Petrol) and manual CNG. 

The Alto K10 offers a seating capacity of 5 and boasts an impressive mileage of 24.4 km/l (petrol manual), 24.9 km/l (petrol automatic), and 24.4 km/kg (CNG). It also comes equipped with key features such as ABS, EBD, two airbags, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch touchscreen display, and steering-mounted controls.

With an estimated average maintenance cost of around ₹15,838 over five years, the Maruti Alto K10 is known for its affordability in terms of maintenance. Routine services including engine oil changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the vehicle.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹3.99 lakh onwards

Key Specifications of Maruti Alto K10

Key Features of Maruti Alto K10 

What's Good:

• low-maintenance cost
• Good value for money

What's Not Good:

• Outdated design and features

4. Maruti Dzire

The Maruti Dzire is a stylish and comfortable compact sedan powered by a 1.2L petrol engine that produces 89 bhp and 113 Nm of torque. The Dzire is available in both manual and automatic transmission options, making it a great choice for both city and highway driving for groups of up to 5 people. 

This low-maintenance car also has a CNG variant that produces 76 bhp and 98.5 Nm of torque. It comes loaded with features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ABS and EBD, AC with automatic climate control, rear AC vents, and a 7-inch touchscreen. The Dzire has a mileage of 24 km/l (Petrol) and 31.5 km/kg (CNG), making it an economical option for long drives or city commutes.

The Maruti Dzire is a popular choice with an estimated average maintenance cost of about ₹17,800 over five years. Regular maintenance services, including engine tune-ups, fluid replacements, and periodic inspections, contribute to its cost-effective maintenance.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹9.45 lakh onwards

Key Specifications of Maruti Dzire

Key Features of Maruti Dzire

What's Good:

• Smooth and refined engine
• Good ride quality

What's Not Good:

• Overpriced compared to rivals

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

5. Maruti Swift

The Maruti Swift is a stylish and sporty hatchback that offers a perfect combination of comfort, performance, and economy. With its powerful 1.2 L engine, the Swift delivers a maximum power of 89 bhp (Petrol) and 76 bhp (CNG), along with a torque of 113 Nm (Petrol) and 98.5 Nm (CNG). It comes in both manual and automatic transmission options (Petrol) and manual (CNG). The vehicle is sturdy on the outside, quite spacious on the inside, and can easily accommodate 5 people. 

The Swift boasts an impressive mileage of 23 km/l (Petrol) and 31 km/kg (CNG). The Swift offers a seating capacity of 5 and comes with key features such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ABS and EBD, AC with automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen, and child seat anchor points, making it a perfect family car.

The Maruti Swift is known for its estimated low average maintenance cost of roughly ₹18,800 over five years. Routine maintenance services like fluid replacements, belt inspections, and wheel alignments are typically performed to maintain the Swift's performance and reliability.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹6.7 lakh onwards

Key Specifications of Maruti Swift

Key Features of Maruti Swift

What's Good:

• Quick and responsive engine
• Good ride and handling balance

What's Not Good:

• Poor rear seat comfort

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Suzuki SwiftCars in India

6. Hyundai i20

Hyundai ditched the ‘elite’ tag when it unveiled the latest-gen i20 hatchback in the Indian market in November 2020. The car is available in four trims: Magna, Sportz, Asta and Asta (O). There are two petrol engines and one diesel engine to choose from, while buyers have the option of four different transmissions. Despite measuring less than 4 metres, the i20 boasts an abundance of space, easily outclassing most of its rivals in the segment.

The i20’s exterior design is sleek and modern, with sporty elements that give the car a youthful and energetic vibe. It is loaded with creature comforts and features that add to the car’s overall convenience and appeal. The i20’s engines are powerful and refined, delivering a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. With its combination of style, space, and performance, the i20 is a worthy contender in the fiercely competitive low-maintenance car market.

The Hyundai i20 offers relatively low estimated maintenance costs, with an average of approximately ₹19,800 over five years. Routine maintenance services, such as regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and brake system checks, are important for maintaining the i20's longevity and efficiency.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹7.07 lakh

Hyundai i20 Key Specifications

Hyundai i20 Key Features

What’s Good

• Improved interior
• Impressive fuel-efficiency
• Complete safety kit

What’s Not Good

• The top variants are expensive compared to other cars in its segment

7. Honda City

The Honda City comes with a powerful 1.5 L petrol engine which provides excellent performance. This vehicle boasts high-tech features that ensure safety, comfort, and convenience. The Honda City has an advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS), central locking, and electronic brake force distribution (EBD), among others. These features give the driver complete control and confidence on the road. 

The FWD and 6-speed manual transmission configurations further enhance the performance and fuel efficiency of this vehicle. The Honda City has impressive fuel economy, with a mileage of 17.8 km/l, making it a perfect choice for those who value a sturdy, durable, and low-maintenance car.

While the Honda City has a slightly higher estimated average maintenance cost of roughly ₹22,800 over five years, it is still considered among the cars with reasonably low maintenance costs. Regular maintenance services, including engine and transmission inspections, fluid replacements, and wheel alignments, contribute to the City's overall maintenance requirements.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹11.81 lakh

Honda City Key Specifications

Honda City Key Features

What’s Good:

• Great fuel economy
• Spacious and comfortable interiors

What’s Not Good: 

• No ventilated seats

8. Tata Nexon

Tata Nexon shot to fame with its much-publicised ‘safest car in India’ claim. While it’s no longer the safest car available, it still boasts a 5-star Global NCAP rating in the adult occupant protection category. 

The Nexon has been in the market for a while now and has slowly but surely become a very popular choice amongst buyers. This compact SUV is truly one of the best low-maintenance cars and gives you everything you’d expect, and some more! With features like a sunroof, ventilated leatherette seats, iRA-connected technology, three drive modes, and voice-command technology, the Nexon is the ideal family car in 2024.

The Tata Nexon boasts an estimated average maintenance cost of approximately ₹18,800 over five years. Routine services such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and brake system inspections are among the maintenance offerings that help keep Nexon's maintenance costs comparatively low.

Ex-showroom price (Delhi): ₹7.70 lakh-₹14.18 lakh

Key Specifications of the Tata Nexon

Key Safety Features of the Tata Nexon

What's Good:

• Excellent safety rating
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Fun to drive
• Affordable price

What's Not Good:

• The engine could be more powerful
• The boot space is a bit small
• The features list is not as comprehensive as some rivals

9. Maruti Suzuki Baleno

Discover the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, a budget-friendly car that exceeds expectations. With its 1.2L engine, this car offers a perfect blend of power and efficiency. Whether you opt for petrol or CNG, the Baleno delivers an impressive mileage of 24 km/l and 32 km/kg respectively. With maximum power of 88 bhp and maximum torque of 113 Nm, the Baleno ensures a dynamic and responsive driving experience. 

Choose between the 5-speed manual or automatic transmission for effortless control. With a seating capacity of 5, this car provides ample space for both comfort and convenience. Embrace affordability without compromising on style with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno.

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno showcases cost-effective maintenance, with an estimated average maintenance cost of about ₹19,800 over five years. Routine maintenance services, including oil and filter changes, battery checks, and electrical system inspections, contribute to Baleno's affordable upkeep.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹6.61 lakh onwards 

Maruti Suzuki Baleno Key Specifications

Maruti Suzuki Baleno Key Features

What’s Good:

• Great features
• Comfortable car

What’s Not Good:

• No rear AC vents

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Suzuki Baleno Cars in India

10. Tata Punch

The Tata Punch is a budget-friendly, compact SUV that offers (pun intended) a punch of power and efficiency. With its 1.2L petrol engine, the Punch delivers a balanced performance. It provides a mileage of 20 km/l, ensuring an economical and fuel-efficient ride. The Punch is exclusively available in petrol. With a maximum power of 84 bhp and a maximum torque of 113 Nm, this car guarantees a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. 

You can choose between the 5-speed manual or automatic transmission, allowing for a seamless and convenient drive. With a seating capacity of 5, the Punch offers ample space and comfort for all passengers. Embrace affordability and performance with the Tata Punch.

With an estimated average maintenance cost of around ₹18,800 over five years, the Tata Punch demonstrates affordability in terms of upkeep. Regular maintenance services, including engine checks, coolant flushes, and suspension inspections, are important for ensuring the Punch's long-term reliability.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹5.99 lakh onwards

Tata Punch Key Specifications

Tata Punch Key Features

What’s Good:

• SUV like stance 
• Spacious interiors 
• Features

What’s Not Good:

• Higher variants are a bit pricey
• AMT gearbox feels sluggish

The Bottom Line

When it comes to low-maintenance cars in India, several options offer both efficiency and affordability. Models like the Maruti WagonR and Maruti Alto K10 provide impressive mileage and low average maintenance costs. For those seeking a sedan, the Maruti Dzire and Honda City deliver reliable performance and reasonable maintenance expenses. 

If you prefer an SUV, the Tata Nexon offers a balance of fuel efficiency and maintenance affordability. Overall, these models are excellent choices for individuals looking to minimize maintenance costs without compromising on quality and performance.

FAQs

Q. What are some low-maintenance hatchback options in India?

Maruti WagonR and Maruti Alto K10 are popular hatchbacks known for their impressive mileage, affordable maintenance costs, and reliable performance.

Q. Which sedan models offer low maintenance costs?

The Maruti Dzire and Honda City are sedan options with reasonable maintenance expenses, making them suitable choices for those seeking a balance between comfort and affordability.

Q. Are there any SUVs with low maintenance costs?

The Tata Nexon is an SUV that offers a balance of fuel efficiency and affordability in terms of maintenance, making it a noteworthy option for SUV enthusiasts.

Q. What is the average maintenance cost for the Mahindra KUV100?

The Mahindra KUV100, a hatchback model, has an average maintenance cost of ₹14,800 over five years, making it a cost-effective choice for car owners.

Q. Which hatchback model provides excellent mileage and low maintenance expenses?

The Maruti Suzuki Baleno is a hatchback known for its impressive fuel efficiency, with a combined mileage range of 22-31 km/l and affordable maintenance costs.

Q. What is the approximate price range for the Tata Punch?

The Tata Punch, a compact SUV, is available at a price range of ₹5.99 lakh to ₹9.47 lakh, making it an affordable option for those seeking a low-maintenance SUV.