Top 10 Small Cars in India - Price, Mileage, Specifications

Compact, efficient, and perfectly suited to navigate the bustling streets of India, small cars hold a special place in the hearts of millions of drivers. In a country where practicality and affordability often take centre stage, these small wonders provide a compelling blend of economy and convenience. 

Our comprehensive guide explores the cream of the crop, highlighting the top 10 small cars in India. From the trusted Maruti Suzuki Alto to the stylish Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, we'll take you through some of the best small cars in India, helping you make an informed decision on your next set of wheels.

List of Top 10 small cars in India

1. Maruti Alto 800

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

The Maruti Alto 800, India's most budget-friendly car in 2023, has established itself as a top seller in the Indian automotive market. This compact hatchback is often loved for its remarkable fuel efficiency, sturdy engineering, diminutive footprint, and lightweight build, rendering it a splendid choice for daily commuting.

Prospective buyers of the Maruti Alto 800 can select from two engine variants: the 0.8-litre F8D Petrol and the 0.8-litre F8D Bi-Fuel CNG. In terms of performance, the petrol version boasts 47.3 bhp of power and 69 Nm of torque, while the CNG version offers 40 bhp of power and 60 Nm of torque, each paired with a smooth 5-speed manual transmission.

Furthermore, Maruti's exemplary after-sales support ensures that servicing and maintenance remain economical, while the car's strong resale value attests to its unwavering popularity within the nation. The Maruti Alto 800 stands as a dependable and practical choice for those seeking affordability and efficiency in their daily travels.

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:

• Cabin is not spacious
• Poor high-speed performance
• No automatic variants on sale

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

2. Maruti Celerio

Starting Price: ₹5.36 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The all-new Maruti Celerio marks a significant upgrade, featuring a new platform, enhanced engine choices, redesigned exterior aesthetics, and a practical cabin equipped with a generous array of features. 

This model is notably more spacious than its predecessor, presenting a bolder, updated exterior design with an expanded palette of exterior colour options. The Celerio has also received improvements in its overall build quality and introduces a comprehensive list of features, such as push-button start, keyless entry, and an idle start-stop function.

Under the hood, the Celerio is driven by the upgraded 1.0-litre K-series petrol engine, which generates a respectable 65 bhp of power and 89 Nm of maximum torque. For those seeking an eco-friendly alternative, there's an optional 1.0-litre CNG engine with 55 bhp of power and 82.1 Nm of peak torque. Maruti offers flexibility in transmission choices for the petrol engine, with both a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) available.

These engines deliver commendable performance, alongside best-in-segment fuel efficiency figures. The Maruti Celerio stands as a compelling choice for those seeking a contemporary, feature-rich, and efficient driving experience.

Maruti Celerio Key Specifications

Maruti Celerio Key Specifications

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 Suzuki Celerio Cars in India

3. Renault Kwid

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

For budget-conscious commuters seeking an economical option in the Indian car market, the Renault Kwid emerges as a compelling choice. Not only does it feature robust engine choices, but it also offers a comfortable and ergonomically sorted cabin, combined with a plethora of features and a sleek exterior design. 

With an attractive starting price of ₹4.69 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the new Kwid stands as one of the most cost-effective family hatchbacks, delivering excellent value for buyers.

Under the hood, the Kwid is powered by the 1.0-litre SCe petrol engine, generating a respectable 67 bhp of power and 91 Nm of peak torque. This engine is available with a choice of a 5-speed manual gearbox or a convenient 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT).

With a claimed fuel efficiency of over 20 km/l, the Kwid is notably positioned as one of the most fuel-efficient cars in the Indian market today, making it an attractive proposition for those prioritising affordability and fuel savings in their daily commute.

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 versions
• After-sales is a hit or a miss
• Inconsistent build quality

Check out our collection of Used Renault Kwid Cars in India

4. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Starting Price: ₹5.92 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios maintains its allure as a top choice for families seeking a well-crafted and feature-laden hatchback. It provides buyers with a choice between two robust engine options: the 1.2-litre Kappa petrol and the 1.2-litre Bi-Fuel CNG. These engines not only deliver impressive performance but are also renowned for their refined operation and long-term dependability.

Furthermore, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios sets itself apart with an extensive list of features, incorporating several segment-first innovations such as a wireless charger and a cooled storage console. Its compact dimensions, exceptional build quality, and premium interior contribute to making it an exceptional option for urban commuting.

Moreover, the vehicle is well-supported by Hyundai's dependable after-sales services and warranty coverage, establishing its appeal as a reliable and enduring companion for those seeking a vehicle that will serve them well over the long haul. The Grand i10 Nios shines as a top-tier choice for those looking for a blend of performance, features, and dependability in a family hatchback.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Key Specifications

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Key Features

What’s Good:

• Segment-best fit-finish levels
• Reliable and refined powertrain options
• Long features list

What’s Not Good: 

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

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

5. Tata Tiago

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

The Tata Tiago has consistently upheld its reputation for solid construction, a comfortable cabin, versatile engine choices, and a comprehensive range of features since its introduction. The recent facelift has further elevated its status. The Tiago now exhibits a more refined and sophisticated design, not only lending it a premium appearance but also positioning it ahead of most competitors in terms of styling.

Beneath the hood, the Tiago offers a standard 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine, complemented by an optional 1.2-litre Bi-Fuel CNG engine. The petrol engine delivers an impressive 86.5 bhp of power and 115 Nm of torque, while the CNG variant provides 72.4 bhp and 103 Nm of peak torque.

Both engine options are paired with a reliable 5-speed manual transmission as standard, with the petrol variant also offering a convenient 5-speed AMT transmission for those who prefer automatic operation. The Tata Tiago stands out as a well-rounded choice, combining style, performance, and convenience in one versatile package.

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

6. Tata Punch

Starting Price: ₹6.13 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Introduced as Tata's debut micro-SUV in the Indian market, the Tata Punch takes on rivals like the Maruti Ignis and the Hyundai Exter. Built on the same platform as the new Altroz, the Punch not only impresses with commendable high-speed dynamics but has also earned a stellar five-star rating in GNCAP crash tests, attesting to its robust build quality and safety prowess.

The Tata Punch is driven by the same potent powertrain found in the Tata Tiago, which includes the 1.2-litre Revotron petrol and the 1.2-litre iCNG Bi-Fuel options. In terms of transmission, the Punch offers a pair of choices: a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.

What sets the Punch apart is its exceptional suspension setup, delivering a ride quality that stands as one of the best in its segment. This blend of strong build quality, versatile capabilities, and a phenomenal ride experience makes the Tata Punch a compelling choice in the micro-SUV category, offering both safety and comfort to its occupants.

Tata Punch Key Specifications

Tata Punch Key Features

What’s Good:

• Build quality
• Tried and tested powertrain options
• Spacious and comfortable cabin

What’s Not Good:

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

Check out our collection of Used Tata Punch Cars in India

7. Maruti WagonR

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

The Maruti WagonR has secured a prominent position in the hearts of those seeking a practical and dependable family hatchback in India, thanks to its distinctive tall-boy design and spacious cabin. With a starting price of ₹5.54 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the WagonR maintains a competitive edge in a segment populated by rivals like the Renault Kwid and Tata Tiago.

Distinguishing itself from many of its peers within Maruti's lineup, the WagonR offers a versatile range of powertrains, including the 1.0-litre K10C, the 1.2-litre K12C petrol engines, and a 1.0-litre Bi-Fuel CNG engine. 

The 1.0-litre petrol engine delivers 65 bhp of power and 89 Nm of torque, while the 1.2-litre petrol engine steps up the game with 88.5 bhp and 113 Nm of maximum torque. The CNG variant, in contrast, offers a robust 55 bhp and 82.1 Nm. All of these engines deliver commendable performance, but it's the 1.2-litre K12C engine that shines with its impressive acceleration and refinement.

Furthermore, the Maruti WagonR is well known for its affordable maintenance, capacious interiors, and no-nonsense approach, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a cost-effective, spacious, and hassle-free automotive experience.

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
• Cheap service costs

What’s Not Good: 

• Strictly average build quality
• Missing essential features
• Poor GNCAP safety ratings

8. Maruti Suzuki Ignis

Starting Price: ₹5.84 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

For those in the market for a compact and stylish car with a distinctive, offbeat design and an exhilarating performance, the new Maruti Ignis emerges as a compelling choice in its class. Packed with a generous array of features and driven by a spirited 1.2-litre K12C engine, the Ignis exudes appeal. What sets it apart for enthusiasts is its rigid suspension and precise steering, contributing to its status as a top contender among affordable hatchbacks in India.

With an attractive starting price of ₹5.84 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the new Ignis is available exclusively through Maruti's premium NEXA network, vying for attention alongside competitors like the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch. Although the cabin may not offer abundant space, it capably accommodates four adults, ensuring practicality without compromising on comfort.

Its compact dimensions and impressive ground clearance further bolster its overall practicality. Maruti's extensive after-sales support network, coupled with budget-friendly maintenance costs, solidifies the new Ignis as a highly practical choice in comparison to its rivals.

Maruti Suzuki Ignis Key Specifications

Maruti Suzuki 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 a spacious cabin
• No turbo petrol or CNG powertrain option
• Build quality is strictly average

9. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10

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

Regarded as one of the cheapest Maruti cars in India, the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 is a great car for anyone looking for a reliable small car in the country. With the launch of the new iteration, the buyers now get updated engine options, more features, and fresh exterior styling. 

Under the hood, the Alto K10 continues to be offered with a 1.0-litre K10C petrol engine and a 1.0-litre CNG engine. While the petrol engine delivers 66 bhp, the CNG on the other hand delivers 55 bhp and is appreciated for its strong fuel economy figures. 

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 Key Specifications

Maruti Suzuki 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

10. Maruti Suzuki Swift

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

The Maruti Swift, a beloved hatchback in India, continues to capture the hearts of drivers with its engaging performance and stylish design. It offers two robust engine options, the 1.2-litre K12 Dual Jet petrol engine producing an impressive 88.5 bhp of power and 113 Nm of torque, and the eco-friendly 1.2-litre K12 CNG engine, delivering 76.4 bhp of power and 98.5 Nm of torque. These engines are paired with either a responsive 5-speed manual transmission or a convenient 5-speed AMT for those who prefer an automatic drive.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Swift stands out, offering a commendable 22.38 km/l with the petrol manual transmission and even better fuel mileage of 22.56 km/l with the petrol AMT variant. Additionally, for environmentally conscious drivers, the CNG option boasts an impressive 30.90 km/kg, making it an eco-friendly choice.

The Maruti Swift features a 37-litre petrol tank, ensuring you can enjoy extended journeys without frequent refuelling, while the CNG variant boasts a substantial 55-litre tank. With its responsive performance and excellent mileage, the Maruti Swift remains a popular and dynamic choice among hatchbacks in India.

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

The Bottom Line

In a country where small cars are loved for their practicality and affordability, the Indian automotive market offers an impressive lineup of small wonders, each catering to a unique set of preferences. With such a diverse range of small cars, there's a perfect fit for every need.

These small cars not only serve as budget-friendly and practical choices but also offer something extra, whether it's style, spirited performance, or unique features. In the end, the best small car in India for you depends on your priorities, be it affordability, fuel efficiency, reliability, or the thrill of the drive. No matter the choice, these small cars have earned their place as the preferred companions of Indian drivers. Which one are you excited to drive home?

FAQs

Q. Which is the smallest car in India?

The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 is one of the smallest cars in India. Its compact size makes it perfect for navigating tight city streets with ease.

Q. What is the cheapest small car in India?

The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 stands as the cheapest small car in India. With its affordable price tag, it offers a reliable and economical option for budget-conscious buyers.

Q. Which is the best small second-hand car?

Even though many cars can be added to this list, the Maruti Suzuki Alto emerges as a popular choice for second-hand buyers due to its widespread availability, low maintenance costs, and dependable performance over the years.

Q. Which are the small cars in India under ₹5 lakh?

Several small cars in India are available for under ₹5 lakh, including the Maruti Alto, Renault Kwid, and Tata Tiago. These models offer affordability without compromising on features or performance.