India is a blooming place for cab businesses, and the most crucial aspect of these businesses are the cars. Explore a list of the best cars for taxi business in India, considering important factors like mileage, price, power, and other functional aspects such as comfort and safety. Many leading car manufacturers offer models that provide the best value to taxi or fleet operators. In fact, Maruti Suzuki has created a separate range for taxis that features models fulfilling almost all requirements to make them the best cars for taxi business.
Here are some of the best cars for cab services in India:
S. No. | Model | Fuel Type | Body Type | Mileage | Ex-showroom Price |
Toyota Innova Crysta | Diesel | MUV | 15.1 kmpl | ₹19.1 – ₹26.3 lakh | |
2. | Mahindra Marazzo | Diesel | MUV | 17.3 kmpl | ₹14.3 – ₹16.6 lakh |
3. | Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (Tour M) | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | MUV | 21.1kmpl (Petrol), 26.56 km/kg (CNG) | ₹8.6 – ₹13 lakh |
4. | Honda Amaze | Petrol | Sedan | 18.6 kmpl | ₹7.1– ₹9.9 lakh |
5. | Maruti Suzuki Dzire (Tour S) | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | Sedan | 23.15 kmpl (Petrol), 32.12 km/kg (CNG) | ₹6.5 – ₹9.3 lakh |
6. | Hyundai Aura | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | Sedan | 20.5 kmpl (Petrol), 28 km/kg (CNG) | ₹6.4 – ₹9 lakh |
7. | Renault Triber | Petrol | MUV | 18–20 kmpl | ₹6.0 – ₹8.9 lakh |
8. | Tata Tigor | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | Sedan | 19.6 kmpl (Petrol), 28 km/kg (CNG) | ₹6.7 – ₹8.9 lakh |
9. | Tata Tiago | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | Hatchback | 20 kmpl (Petrol), 28 km/kg (CNG) | ₹5.6 – ₹8.9 lakh |
10. | Maruti Suzuki Wagon R (Tour H3) | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | Hatchback | 25.4 kmpl (Petrol) / 34 km/kg (CNG) | ₹5.5 – ₹7.2 lakh |
11. | Maruti Suzuki Celerio | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | Hatchback | 24.9 kmpl (Petrol), 34.4 km/kg (CNG) | ₹5.3 – ₹7.1 lakh |
12. | Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 (Tour H1) | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG | Hatchback | 24.6 kmpl (Petrol) / 34.4 km/kg (CNG) | ₹3.5 – ₹5.1 lakh |
1. Toyota Innova Crysta (₹19.1 – ₹26.3 lakh)
For those who seek comfort and a premium experience, especially for longer journeys, the Toyota Innova Crysta has been a preferred option for many years. More than 25 customer accessories are offered in the Innova Crysta that enable personalisation as per the buyer. The Crysta comes with a warranty of three years or 1,00,000 km, whichever comes first, which can be extended to five years or 2,20,000 km. The Crysta has the highest taxi car price on our list. However, a Used Toyota Innova Crysta could make for a great option for a taxi fleet operator.
Toyota Innova Crysta - Key specifications
Engine | 2.4L Diesel |
Transmission | Manual |
Mileage | 15.1 kmpl |
Maximum Power | 147.51bhp |
Peak Torque | 343 Nm |
Fuel Type | Diesel |
Tank Capacity | 55 Litres |
Seating Capacity | 7/8-seater |
Body Type | MUV |
Toyota Innova Crysta - Key features
Eco and power drive modes |
Improved suspension with pitch and bounce control |
8-way adjustable power driver seat |
5 Star NCAP Rating |
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) |
Vehicle stability control |
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
Start/stop button |
2. Mahindra Marazzo (₹14.3 – ₹16.6 lakh)
Dubbed as one of India’s safest MPVs, the Marazzo has received a four-star Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP) rating. Its Surround Cool technology, which provides uniform cooling in the car, is an industry-first feature offered by Mahindra. It also claims to have unrivalled leg space for the last row occupants, which is often a concern for MPV owners.
Mahindra Marazzo - Key specifications
Engine | D15 1.5L |
Transmission | Manual |
Mileage | 17.3 kmpl |
Maximum Power | 120.9 bhp |
Peak Torque | 300 Nm |
Fuel Type | Diesel |
Tank Capacity | 45 Litres |
Seating Capacity | 7/8-seater |
Body Type | MUV |
Mahindra Marazzo - Key features
Steering mounted controls |
Surround cool technology |
Rear view camera |
Best-in-class space for 8 adults |
Front-wheel Drive |
Short turning radius of 5.25 m |
Anti-lock braking system |
Driver and passenger airbag |
3. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (Tour M) (₹8.6 – ₹13 lakh)
The Maruti Ertiga, or Tour M, as it is known in the taxi segment separately launched by Maruti Suzuki, delivers on the maker’s offer of good mileage and an accessible service network. Maruti launched the Ertiga (Tour M) as part of their taxi range, offering both petrol and petrol + CNG variants. It also comes with an auto-fuel switch mechanism that switches the fuel from petrol to CNG smoothly, mitigating any chances of jerks. Used Maruti Suzuki Ertiga cars are great options to consider for a taxi business.
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (Tour M) - Key specifications
Engine | K15C |
Transmission | Manual |
Mileage | 21.1kmpl (Petrol), 26.56 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 91.18 - 103.25 bhp |
Peak Torque | 122 Nm - 138 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 45 Lites (petrol), 60 Litres (CNG – water equivalent) |
Seating Capacity | 7-seater |
Body Type | MUV |
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (Tour M) - Key features
Dual front airbags |
ABS with EBD and Brake Assist |
Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) |
Engine immobiliser |
4. Honda Amaze (₹7.1– ₹9.9 lakh)
The Honda Amaze is a spacious and comfortable car in the compact sedan segment. Its rapid acceleration makes it simple to navigate city streets. The only Honda car to be featured on this list, the Amaze offers a comfortable ride even on long drives. To add to that, with its impressive mileage, the Amaze emerges as a strong contender for the best taxi car in India. There are a plethora of Used Honda Amaze Cars available for taxi businesses across India.
Honda Amaze - Key specifications
Engine | i-VTEC |
Transmission | Manual / Automatic |
Mileage | 18.6 kmpl |
Maximum Power | 89 bhp |
Peak Torque | 110 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol |
Tank Capacity | 35 Litres |
Seating Capacity | 5-seater |
Body Type | Sedan |
Honda Amaze - Key features
Dual airbags |
ABS |
Engine immobiliser |
Rear view camera |
AceTM body structure |
Android Auto/Apple CarPlay |
17.7 cm advanced infotainment system |
Cruise control |
5. Maruti Suzuki Dzire (Tour S) (₹6.5 – ₹9.3 lakh)
The Maruti Dzire is undoubtedly one of the most commonly used cars in the taxi businesses in India. Cabs that are booked through cab aggregator services like Ola and Uber are often the Swift Dzire as the car is extremely successful in the sector. It is estimated that the cost of service for the Maruti Suzuki Dzire for a period of 5 years is as nominal as Rs. 25000/=. The car’s light steering, clutch, and gear make it suitable for the regular city driving that taxis go through. If you're considering this model for your fleet, consider exploring Used Maruti Suzuki Dzire cars that come at affordable prices.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire (Tour S) - Key specifications
Engine | K12M VVT I4 |
Transmission | Manual |
Mileage | 23.15 kmpl (Petrol), 32.12 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 76.43 - 88.5 bhp |
Peak Torque | 98.5 Nm - 113 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 37 Litres |
Seating Capacity | 5-seater |
Body Type | Sedan |
Maruti Suzuki Dzire (Tour S) - Key features
ABS with EBD and brake assist |
ESP |
Dual airbags |
Reverse parking sensors |
Engine immobiliser |
Tilt steering |
6. Hyundai Aura (₹6.4 – ₹9 lakh)
The Hyundai Aura was designed to optimise the available space, making it a comfortable drive for the occupants, whether on short hauls or long drives. The car’s eco-friendly powertrains and specially tuned suspension makes for a comfortable ride and it’s superior CNG tank capacity make it an optimal choice as a taxi vehicle. Used Hyundai Aura Cars are also among top cars for taxi businesses as they offer great quality at reduced prices.
Hyundai Aura - Key specifications
Engine | 1.2 L Bi-Fuel |
Transmission | Manual / Automatic |
Mileage | 20.5 kmpl (Petrol), 28 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 50.5 - 61 bhp |
Peak Torque | 95.2 - 113.8 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 37 Litres (petrol), 65 Litres (CNG- water equivalent) |
Seating Capacity | 5-seater |
Body Type | Sedan |
Hyundai Aura - Key features
ESC |
ABS with EBD |
Dual airbags |
Engine immobiliser |
Rear camera with static guidelines |
Rear wing spoiler |
Footwell lighting |
Apple CarPlay / Android Auto |
Cruise control |
Tilt steering |
7. Renault Triber (₹6.0 – ₹8.9 lakh)
The Renault Triber is an MPV that comes with a modular seating feature, which adds to its credentials as a spacious car. Renault claims to have 100 possible seating arrangements for the seven-seater Triber. The cabin can comfortably house up to 7 people with flexible seating modes. Additionally, the detachable third-row seats enable even more configurations for space, deepening on the requirement. Check out our inventory of Used Renault Triber cars available across India.
Renault Triber - Key specifications
Engine | ENERGY Engine |
Transmission | Manual / Automatic |
Mileage | 18–20 kmpl |
Maximum Power | 72 bhp |
Peak Torque | 96 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol |
Tank Capacity | 40 Litres |
Seating Capacity | 7-seater |
Body Type | MUV |
Renault Triber - Key features
6-way adjustable driver’s seat with armrest |
100 possible seating combinations |
20.32 cm touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
Smart access card |
Cooled storage in glovebox |
ESP |
Dual airbags |
ABS with EBD and brake assist |
Pedestrian protection |
Distance to Empty indicator |
Check out our collection of Used Renault Triber Cars in India
8. Tata Tigor (₹6.7 – ₹8.9 lakh)
The Tata Tigor comes with the best-in-class four-speaker Harman sound system, which makes this an enjoyable journey for the taxi riders (this feature is also available in its hatchback twin, the Tata Tiago). Another segment-leading feature is the 419-litre boot space of the Tata Tigor. It is one of the most well-priced compact sedans, given the variety of features it offers. The Tata Tigor, just like the Tiago, has an impressive four-star GNCAP rating for safety. Second-han Tata Tigors are a popular choice among fleet owners.
Tata Tigor - Key specifications
Engine | 1.2L Revotron |
Transmission | Manual/Automatic |
Mileage | 19.6 kmpl (Petrol), 28 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 86 bhp |
Peak Torque | 113 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 35 Litres (petrol), 70 Litres (CNG-water equivalent) |
Seating Capacity | 5-seater |
Body Type | Sedan |
Tata Tigor - Key features
ABS with EBD and corner stability control |
Fortified cabin |
Dual front airbags |
Rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines |
Cruise Control |
17.78 cm touchscreen infotainment Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity |
Check out our collection of Used Tata Tigor Cars in India
9. Tata Tiago (₹5.6 – ₹8.9 lakh)
Tata Tiago is one of the highest-rated hatchbacks in terms of safety, with a four-star GNCAP safety rating. This spacious five-seater also has plenty of boot space for a hatchback, including ample shoulder room in the rear seats, making it a comfortable choice for longer journeys. It has a powerful engine, which makes it not only a good city traffic car but also makes for a good ride on longer highway drives. Additionally, Used Tata Tiago make for great fleet cars due to their affordability.
Tata Tiago - Key specifications
Engine | 1.2L Revotron |
Transmission | Manual / Automatic |
Mileage | 20 kmpl (Petrol), 28 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 86 bhp |
Peak Torque | 113 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 35 Litres (petrol), 60 Litres (CNG- water equivalent) |
Seating Capacity | 5-Seater |
Body Type | Hatchback |
Tata Tiago - Key features
Fortified cabin |
ABS with EBD and corner stability control |
Engine immobiliser |
Follow Me Home lamps |
Rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines |
Dual front airbags |
Cruise Control |
17.78 cm touchscreen infotainment Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity |
Cooled glovebox with tablet storage space |
10. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R (Tour H3) (₹5.5 – ₹7.2 lakh)
The Wagon R is arguably one of the leading hatchbacks in the entry-level segment of the country, due to its affordability and range of features. Apart from the affordable purchase price, the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R is a popular choice for the taxi business in India due to its efficiency which leads to high mileage and cost-effective maintenance. The Wagon R’s size makes it a nimble and agile car, enabling it to breeze through city traffic with ease. Combined with Maruti’s reputation for accessible after-sales services, the Wagon R is one of the top choices for cabbies. Used Maruti Suzuki WagonRs offer great value for taxi businesses due to their low upfront cost and cheap maintenance.
Maruti Suzuki WagonR (Tour H3) - Key specifications
Engine | K10C |
Transmission | Manual |
Mileage | 25.4 kmpl (Petrol) / 34 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 55.92 - 65.71 bhp |
Peak Torque | 89 Nm - 82.1 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 32 Litres (petrol), 60 Litres (CNG-water equivalent) |
Seating Capacity | 5-seater |
Body Type | Hatchback |
Maruti Suzuki Wagon R (Tour H3) - Key features
Idle Start Stop (ISS) |
ABS with EBD |
ESP |
Dual airbags |
Urethane steering wheel |
Low fuel warning |
Rear parking sensors |
11. Maruti Suzuki Celerio (₹5.3 – ₹7.1 lakh)
For its size, the Celerio has spacious interiors in the segment, making this easy-to-manoeuvre, zippy car a good choice for a city taxi. The Celerio is one of the most fuel-efficient cars in the country today, and this is possibly why it is one of the more frequently seen hatchbacks on cab aggregator apps like Uber and Ola, and used Maruti Suzuki Celerios are also abundant in the market.
Maruti Suzuki Celerio - Key specifications
Engine | K10C |
Transmission | Manual / Auto Gear Shift (AGS) |
Mileage | 24.9 kmpl (Petrol), 34.4 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 55.92 - 65.71 bhp |
Peak Torque | 89 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 32 Litres (petrol), 60 Litres (CNG-water equivalent) |
Seating Capacity | 5-seater |
Body Type | Hatchback |
Maruti Suzuki Celerio - Key features
Remote keyless entry |
ABS with EBD |
ESC |
Engine immobiliser |
Dual airbags |
Pedestrian protection |
Engine Idle Start Stop |
12. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 (Tour H1) (₹3.5 – ₹5.1 lakh)
One of the smaller hatchbacks by Maruti Suzuki, the latest Alto K10 offers much better space and fuel efficiency than its predecessors. This makes the Alto K10 a cost-effective option for purchasing and maintaining as a taxi. The last on our list for the best taxi cars, it is also the cheapest option on the list for taxi car prices in India. Used Maruti Suzuki Alto K10s make for an even cheaper option.
Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 (Tour H1) - Key specifications
Engine | K10C |
Transmission | Manual |
Mileage | 24.6 kmpl (Petrol) / 34.4 km/kg (CNG) |
Maximum Power | 55.92 - 65.71 bhp |
Peak Torque | 82.1 Nm - 89 Nm |
Fuel Type | Petrol/ Petrol+CNG |
Tank Capacity | 27 Litres (petrol), 55 Litres (CNG-water equivalent) |
Seating Capacity | 5-seater |
Body Type | Hatchback |
Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 (Tour H1) - Key features
Engine immobiliser |
Dual front airbags |
ABS with EBD |
Reverse parking sensors |
Collapsible steering column |
EBD |
Conclusion
When it comes to answering the question, which car is best for taxi in India, Maruti Suzuki leads the board with the most models in this segment. This list has been created keeping in mind which cars offer good value for money in terms of the mileage, the comfort of the drivers, and the performance of the cars. While this list can provide prospective buyers with some additional details or possible comparisons between models, the final buying decision depends on personal preferences. While this list contains some of the best options, it is not exhaustive. Based on personal preferences, one can turn other cars into taxis.
FAQ
Q. Which car is ideal for a taxi business?
Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire is probably the most prominent car used as a taxi in India, owing to its low maintenance cost.
Q. Is the taxi business profitable in India?
While the taxi business is growing well in India, profitability depends on a variety of factors. These may include the routes that the driver plies on, the cost of cars in the fleet, how well they are maintained, and the charges of regular maintenance, in addition to the fuel costs. Along with this, the skill of the drivers is also important to ensure that all cars are in top notch running condition and do not incur heavy repair costs.
Q. Can I give my car to a taxi business company?
Yes, it is possible to convert a private car into a taxi and rent it out. To do this, one must apply for a taxi permit at the local Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Q. Which is the best 7-seater taxi car in India?
There are many 7-seater cars in India, but for taxis, the Toyota Innova Crysta, Mahindra Marazzo, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (Tour M), and Renault Triber are some of the preferred choices.
Q. Which is the best car for Ola and Uber?
Any car that meets the legal documentation requirements can be used commercially with Ola and Uber.