Best Low-Maintenance Cars to Buy in India in 2024

Are you on the lookout for the best low-maintenance cars in India? Look no further! This blog is your ultimate guide to finding the perfect ride in 2024. Whether you're interested in used cars, the most sought-after models in India, or the best value for your money when it comes to older cars, we have all the information you need.

If you're looking for a car that requires minimal upkeep and offers long-term affordability, you've come to the right place. We understand the importance of finding a vehicle that fits your budget and saves you time and money on maintenance expenses.

From fuel efficiency to reliability, we will look into the top contenders, ensuring that you are equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Let's dive right in!

1. 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.

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

Used Car Price: ₹4 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 WagonR cars in India.

2. 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.

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

Used Car Price: ₹3 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

Check out our collection of used Maruti Alto K10 cars in India.

3. 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.

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

Used Car Price: ₹3.59 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 Dzire cars in India.

4. 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.

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

Used Car Price: ₹6.2 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 Swift cars in India.

5. Maruti S-Presso

The Maruti S-Presso is a trendy-looking 5-seater hatchback that comes with modern features and excellent fuel efficiency. This low-maintenance car is available in both petrol and CNG variants, generating maximum power of 66 bhp and 56 bhp, respectively. It comes in both manual and automatic transmission options for petrol variants, while CNG variants only come in manual. 

The S-Presso is loaded with features such as an integrated music system, Bluetooth, AUX, two airbags, overspeed warning, ABS, and EBD. With a mileage of 24.1 km/l for the petrol manual, 25.3 km/l for the petrol automatic, and 32.73 km/kg for CNG, the Maruti S-Presso is an affordable and stylish car that is perfect for city driving.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹4.25 lakh onwards

Used Car Price: ₹4 lakh onwards

Key Specifications of Maruti S-Presso:

Key Features of Maruti S-Presso:

What's Good:

• Unique and modern design
• Good ground clearance

What's Not Good:

• Lack of space and comfort
• Poor NVH levels

Check out our collection of used Maruti S-Presso cars 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.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹7.07 lakh

Key Specifications of Hyundai i20:

Key Features of Hyundai i20:

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

Check out our collection of used Hyundai i20 cars in India.

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 an 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.

Ex-showroom Price (Delhi): ₹11.81 lakh

Key Specifications of Honda City:

Key Features of Honda City:

What’s Good:

• Great fuel economy
• Spacious and comfortable interiors

What’s Not Good:

• No ventilated seats

Check out our collection of used Honda City cars in India.

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.

You can learn more about the finer details of the Safety rating and Adult and Child Protection Score of the Tata Nexon.

Global NCAP rating: 5 stars

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

Key Specifications of Tata Nexon:

Key Features of Tata Nexon:

What's Good:

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

What's Not Good:

• Engine could be more powerful
• Boot space is a bit small
• Features list is not as comprehensive as some rivals

Check out our collection of used Tata Nexon cars in India.

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.

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

Key Specifications of Maruti Suzuki Baleno:

Key Features of Maruti Suzuki Baleno:

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.

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

Key Specifications of Tata Punch:

Key Features of Tata Punch:

What’s Good:

• SUV like stance 
• Spacious interiors 
• Features

What’s Not Good:

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

Check out our collection of used Tata Punch cars in India.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, owning a low-maintenance car in India not only saves you from frequent trips to the service centre but also ensures a hassle-free ownership experience. The models mentioned in this blog, such as the Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, and the Maruti Swift, offer excellent reliability, affordable maintenance costs, and a strong reputation in the market. 

By choosing a low-maintenance car, you can enjoy peace of mind, cost-effective ownership, and more time on the road. So, make a smart choice and drive confidently with a low-maintenance car that suits your budget and needs.

FAQs

Q. What are the best low-maintenance hatchback cars to buy in India in 2024?

The Maruti Wagon R, Maruti Alto K10, Maruti Swift, and Maruti S-Presso are among the best low-maintenance hatchback cars available in India.

Q. Which sedan cars offer low-maintenance and good mileage in India?

The Maruti Dzire and Honda City are sedan cars that offer low-maintenance and good mileage in India.

Q. Are there any low-maintenance SUV cars available in India?

Yes, the Tata Nexon is a low-maintenance SUV car option available in India.

Q. What is the starting price range for low-maintenance cars in India?

The starting price range for low-maintenance cars in India varies, but it generally begins from around ₹3 lakh onwards for used cars and ₹4 lakh onwards for new cars.

Q. Which low-maintenance car offers the best fuel efficiency in India?

The Maruti Wagon R and Maruti Alto K10, both available in petrol and CNG variants, offer excellent fuel efficiency, with mileage ranging from 24.4 km/l to 34.05 km/kg.