15 cheapest automatic cars to buy in 2024

Not long ago, cars with automatic transmissions were unfavourable among buyers in India. They were expensive, less fuel efficient and cost more to maintain. However, as technology has developed and Maruti Suzuki introduced their range of models with a cost effective solution–the Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), the tides have turned. Today, the demand for affordable and efficient automatic transmissions have seen a significant and steady increase. 

Manual transmissions continue to remain the preferred choice among Indian consumers. However, mass market models in India are now available with affordable automatic transmissions, and many are willing to shell out the slight premium for their daily commutes. So we have curated a list of the 15 cheapest automatic cars you can buy in India in 2024.

What is an automatic car?

An automatic car features an automatic transmission, eliminating the need for the driver to manually shift gears. The transmission, or gearbox, directs the car's rotational force and speed, automatically selecting the appropriate gear based on speed and road conditions. It uses sensors to determine the right time to shift gears. 

You can easily identify an automatic car by its pedals. If the car has two pedals, it's an automatic. In contrast, manual cars have three pedals; a clutch pedal is added in addition to the brake and accelerator pedals. 

Types of automatic transmission 

When it comes to automatic cars, there's a surprising variety of automatic transmission types available today. Each type offers distinct advantages, catering to different driving styles and needs. Understanding these can help you make an informed choice based on your driving preferences: 

• Torque Converter Automatic (AT): The most common type of automatic transmission, Torque Converter Automatic is considered ideal for daily commutes. An AT uses a hydraulic fluid coupling or torque converter, which is connected to the engine's electronic control unit.
• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): A CVT gearbox uses variable-width pulleys and a belt instead of fixed gears, allowing for an "infinite" number of gear ratios.
• Automated Manual Transmission (AMT): An automated manual, or semi-automatic transmission combines the features of manual and automatic transmissions. Functionally speaking, it operates the clutch through an electro-hydraulic actuator using sensors, pneumatics, and processors. This makes AMTs the most affordable type of automatic transmissions.
• Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT): Similar to a manual transmission, the DCT is controlled by the car's computer. It contains two clutches: one for odd gears and one for even gears and enables faster gear changes.
• Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT): Offered by Hyundai and Kia in India, iMT features a traditional H-pattern manual gear lever, but eliminates the need for a manual clutch pedal.

List of 10 budget automatic cars in India (price low to high)

1. Renault Kwid AMT (₹5.5-₹6.5 lakh)

The Renault Kwid AMT is the most affordable small automatic car in India. The Kwid is available in four variants—RXE, RXL (O), RXT, and Climber, with AMT gearbox available in all trims, apart from the base RXE variant. 

A 1.0-litre petrol engine, producing 67.1 bhp and 91 Nm of torque, powers the Kwid. It pairs this engine with a 5-speed transmission, available in both manual and AMT. Despite being the French automaker's entry-level vehicle in India, the Kwid doesn't skimp on features. It offers premium features like a digital instrument cluster, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), and a bold design that ensures it stands out from the competition.

The Kwid also boasts a variety of colour options, including five monotone and five dual-tone shades with a contrast black roof. Some other key features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, remote keyless entry, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, an electronic stability programme (ESP), hill start assist, traction control system (TCS), and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Renault Kwid: Key specifications

Renault Kwid: Key features

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Premium features like a digital instrument cluster and LED daytime running lights (DRLs)
• Safety features like traction control system (TCS), and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

Check out our collection of Used Renault Kwid Cars in India

2. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 AGS (₹5.6-₹5.9 lakh)

As one of the most inexpensive small automatic cars in India, the Alto K10’s AMT variants deliver a claimed mileage of 24.9 km/l, making it an economical choice for daily commutes. Available in seven colours, the Alto K10 AMT is powered by a 998 cc engine, paired with an AMT gearbox, that produces 65.7 bhp and 89 Nm of torque. 

The Alto K10 comes with ABS, power windows (front), driver and passenger airbags, power steering, and air conditioning. The VXi and VXi+ variants offer AMT gearbox options for added convenience. 

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10: Key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10: Key features

• Dual Front Airbags
• Anti Lock Braking System
• Power Steering

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

3. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso AGS (₹5.7-₹6.0 lakh)

The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso comes in four variants: Std, LXi, VXi, and VXi Plus. Its 5-speed AMT transmission is mated to a 1.0-litre petrol engine producing 66.1 bhp and 89 Nm of torque. The S-Presso claims to deliver an impressive fuel efficiency of 25.3 km/l for the petrol AMT variants. 

The S-Presso’s feature list includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a semi-digital instrument cluster, front powered windows, and keyless entry. Safety features include dual front airbags, rear parking sensors, hill hold assist, electronic stability programme (ESP), and ABS with EBD. 

With its SUV-inspired design, high ground clearance, and versatile transmission options, the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso stands out in the budget segment. 

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso: Key specifications

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso: Key features

• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Good safety features for the segment, like dual front airbags, hill hold assist, ABS, and ESP among others
• High ground clearance and SUV-inspired design 

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

4. Maruti Suzuki Celerio AGS (₹6.3-₹7.1 lakh)

The Maruti Suzuki Celerio comes in four variants. The AMT option is available in VXi, ZXi, and ZX+ variants of the Celerio. Powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine delivering 66.1 bhp and 89 Nm, the Celerio offers both a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. The Celerio AMT models offer an impressive fuel economy of 26.7 km/l.

Key features in the Celerio include a 7-inch touchscreen and push-button start/stop, dual front airbags, hill-hold assist, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. 

Maruti Suzuki Celerio: Key specifications 

Maruti Suzuki Celerio: Key features

• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment
• Premium safety features like hill-hold assist, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors
• Impressive mileage of 26.7 km/l

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

5. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R AGS (₹6.5-₹7.4 lakh)

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R AGS is a popular budget-friendly automatic option in India. The Wagon R offers two petrol engine options: a 1-litre motor delivering 66.1 bhp and 89 Nm, and a 1.2-litre engine producing 88.8 bhp and 113 Nm, both available with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. In addition, this hatchback provides a generous boot capacity of 341 litres, ensuring you have ample space for all your needs

Key features of the Wagon R include a 7-inch touchscreen display, a 4-speaker sound system, and steering-mounted audio and phone controls. Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and hill-hold assist in AMT variants provide comprehensive safety coverage. 

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R: Key specifications 

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R: Key features

• Steering-mounted audio and phone controls
• Premium safety features include rear parking sensors, and hill-hold assist in AMT variants
• AMT variants available in two petrol engine options

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

6. Maruti Suzuki Ignis AGS (₹6.8-₹8.1 lakh)

The Maruti Suzuki Ignis is available in three AMT variants: Delta, Zeta, and Alpha. Powering the Ignis is a 1.2-litre petrol engine that delivers 81.9 bhp and 113 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. This engine provides a fuel efficiency of 20.9 km/l, making it an economical choice for city driving.

The Ignis offers a unique boxy design, upmarket interior, in seven monotone and three dual-tone choices. Inside, the Ignis boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, and a height-adjustable driver seat. Safety features in the Ignis include dual front airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. 

Maruti Suzuki Ignis: Key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Ignis: Key features

• Claims 20.9 km/l of fuel efficiency for AMT variant
• Spacious boot space of 260-litres
• Premium interior and safety features

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

7. Tata Tiago AMT (₹6.9-₹7.9 lakh)

The Tata Tiago is a standout in the segment of budget automatic cars in India, combining versatility, value, and a host of modern features. The Tiago is available in six trims—XE, XM, XT (O), XT, XZ, and XZ+ — with the AMT gearbox available in XT, XT (O), XZ, and XZ+ variants. Moreover, the Tiago was also the first car in India to offer an automatic AMT gearbox with the CNG model. 

The Tiago is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 84.8 bhp and 113 Nm, paired with a 5-speed transmission in both manual and AMT options. The CNG model delivers 72.5 bhp and 95 Nm. With impressive fuel efficiency—up to 28.1 km/kg in the CNG AMT variant, the Tiago is an economical choice for city commutes and longer drives alike.

The Tiago's interior is just as compelling, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital driver’s display, and an 8-speaker Harman sound system. Automatic climate control and a cooled glovebox add to the comfort and convenience. Safety is well-covered with dual front airbags, rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD, and cornering stability control. 

Tata Tiago: Key specifications 

Tata Tiago: Key features

• 8-speaker Harman sound system
• Premium interior and safety features like automatic climate control, a cooled glovebox
• An impressive fuel efficiency of up to 28.1 km/kg from CNG AMT variant 

Check out our collection of Used Tata Tiago Cars in India

8. Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS AMT (₹7.1-₹8.6 lakh)

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, available in five variants—Era, Magna, Corporate, Sportz, and Asta—stands out as a stylish and practical choice among budget-friendly automatic cars in India. The AMT option is available in four of its five variants. A 1.2-liter petrol engine powers the Grand i10 Nios, producing 81.9 bhp and 114 Nm of torque. The Grand i10 Nios comes with five-speed manual and AMT transmission options. 

The Grand i10 Nios is packed with impressive features, including an 8-inch infotainment display, wireless phone charging, automatic AC with rear vents, cruise control, and a height-adjustable driver's seat. Safety features include six airbags, hill assist control, electronic stability control (ESC), a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and ISOFIX child seat mounts. 

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: Key specifications 

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: Key features

• AMT option available in four of its five variants
• Powerful engine, delivering 81.9 bhp and 114 Nm of torque
• Comfort and safety, like cruise control, six airbags and TPMS

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

9.  Tata Tigor AMT (₹7.4-₹9.6 lakh)

If you’re looking for an affordable automatic sedan, the Tata Tigor is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine (84.8 bhp/113 Nm), with the option of a 5-speed AMT gearbox offers convenience without compromising on fuel efficiency. The Tigor is available in four variants: XE, XM, XZ, and XZ+, and it comes in five striking colours. Furthermore, two of Tigor's variants offer CNG options, providing eco-friendly choices with remarkable mileage.

The Tigor not only looks appealing but also boasts a generous boot space of 419 litres, making it practical for daily commutes and weekend getaways. Inside, the Tigor is packed with modern features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a semi-digital driver’s display, and an eight-speaker sound system. Push-button start/stop, cruise control, and a height-adjustable driver seat.

The Tigor offers dual airbags, ABS with EBD, a rear parking camera, rain-sensing wipers, tyre pressure monitoring system, ISOFIX child-seat anchors, and rear parking sensors. 

Tata Tigor: Key specifications

Tata Tigor: Key features

• Powerful engine, delivering 84.8 bhp and 113 Nm torque
• A massive boot of 419 litres
• Superior comfort and safety features

Check out our collection of Used Tata Tigor Cars in India

10. Renault Triber AMT (₹8.1-₹8.9 lakh)

A 7-seater MPV, the Renault Triber is designed to cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets, and is available in four variants of RXE, RXL, RXT, and RXZ. AMT options are available in RXT and RXZ variants. Powered by a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated 3-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 71 bhp and 96 Nm of torque, the Renault Triber is available in 5-speed manual and AMT options. Although compact in dimensions, the Triber seats up to seven people and offers a flexible boot space that can expand from 84 litres to a generous 625 litres by folding down the third row.

An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital driver's display, and a wireless phone charger are just a few of the modern features that the Triber boasts. In addition, it offers top-end safety features like up to four airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability programme (ESP), hill start assist (HSA), rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). 

Renault Triber: Key specifications

Renault Triber: Key features

• Boot space of 84 litres, further expandable to 625 litres by folding the third row
• Can seat up to 7 people
• Packed with top-notch interior and safety features

Check out our collection of Used Renault Triber Cars in India

11. Maruti Suzuki Swift AGS (₹7.8-₹9.6 lakh)

The new-gen Maruti Suzuki Swift continues the performance of its predecessor, and remains a favourite among budget-conscious buyers looking for an automatic option. Of the 11 available variants, the Swift automatic option is available in four of its variants: VXi, VXi (O), ZXi, ZXi+. One of the highlights of the Swift is the new 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, petrol engine, which delivers 80.9 bhp and 112 Nm of torque. The Swift AGS pairs the new engine with a 5-speed AMT gearbox.

The Swift’s interior features a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 6-speaker Arkamys-tuned audio system, and automatic AC with rear vents. Modern conveniences like wireless phone charging, cruise control, and push-button start/stop are also available. Additionally, the car offers a practical boot space of 265 litres, ensuring ample room for your luggage.

Improving upon the safety of its previous generation, the new Swift is equipped with six airbags, electronic stability programme (ESP), rear parking sensors, a rear parking camera, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. 

Maruti Suzuki Swift: Key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Swift: Key features

• Impressive interiors with a 9-inch touchscreen, and 6-speaker Arkamys audio
• Comfort and safety features include automatic climate control, six airbags, and rear camera & sensors
• Automatic transmission available in five variants

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Swift Cars in India

12. Maruti Suzuki Dzire AGS (₹8.2-₹10.1lakh)

The fourth-generation Dzire is the first Maruti Suzuki model to receive a full 5-stars by Global NCAP for safety. The new-gen model of the sub-four-metre sedan builds on the underpinnings of the latest Swift, but the new styling gives it a personalised identity. 

Maruti Suzuki uses the new 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine in the new Dzire, which makes 82 hp and 111 Nm of torque. The engine in the Dzire is available with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, but a 5-speed AMT automated manual is also available in three variants; VXI, ZXI and ZXI+. Starting at ₹ 8.2 lakh ex-showroom, the new Dzire AGS is an exceptional car for the price among affordable automatic cars in India.

The Dzire offers 6 airbags, electronic stability programme, ABS with EBD and 3-point seat belts for all seats as standard. The 382 litre boot capacity further makes it a practical sedan among rivals.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire: Key Specifications

Maruti Suzuki Dzire: Key Features

• Large and user-friendly 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• 5-star crash safety GNCAP rating
• Impressive and competitive pricing

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Dzire Cars in India

13. Maruti Suzuki Baleno AGS (₹7.9-₹9.8 lakh)

Fuel efficiency is a key highlight for the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, setting it apart in its class. With a 1.2-litre petrol engine delivering 88.8 bhp and 113 Nm of torque, the Baleno AMT boasts an impressive claimed fuel economy of 22.9 km/l. Available in four variants—Sigma, Delta, Zeta, and Alpha—the Baleno AMT option is available in all but the base Sigma variant. 

The Baleno is packed with all modern safety features, like six airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability programme (ESP), and a 360-degree camera, among others. In addition, the idle start/stop technology maximizes every fuel drop, making it a cost-conscious driver's smart choice. For those looking for an eco-friendly option, the CNG variant provides excellent mileage, though it's only with the manual transmission.

Inside, the Baleno doesn't skimp on modern comforts and tech-savvy features. It features a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the cabin, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Arkamys-tuned sound system, heads-up display, and cruise control add a touch of luxury. 

Maruti Suzuki Baleno: Key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Baleno: Key features

• 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Arkamys-tuned sound system
• Modern safety features like six airbags, and a 360-degree camera
• Additional comfort features like KeyLess Entry, and Real-Time Vehicle Tracking

Check out our collection of Used Maruti Baleno Cars in India

14. Hyundai Aura AMT (₹8.9 lakh)

The Hyundai Aura is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with a 5-speed AMT gearbox. The engine delivers 81.9 bhp and 114 Nm of torque. Although the Aura is available in four variants: E, S, SX, and SX (O), the automatic option is available only in the SX+ AMT variant.  

Inside, the Aura features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making connectivity seamless. It also boasts conveniences like a wireless phone charger and cruise control, enhancing the overall driving experience. The Aura comes packed with safety features like six airbags, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX child-seat anchors. 

Hyundai Aura: Key specifications

Hyundai Aura: Key features

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Impressive engine power of 81.9 bhp and 114 Nm of torque
• Premium comfort and safety features, like cruise control, and six airbags

Check out our collection of Used Hyundai Aura Cars in India

15. Tata Punch AMT (₹7.6-₹10.2 lakh)

The Tata Punch is available in four variants—Pure, Adventure, Accomplished, and Creative—the Punch offers the AMT option across all variants except Pure. The Punch boasts of a powerful 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is paired with 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. The engine in the Punch delivers 86.6 bhp and 115 Nm of torque. The AMT variants return a certified mileage of 18.8 kmpl, making them an economical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Some key features of the Tata Punch include a 7-inch touchscreen display, a 7-inch semi-digital instrument panel, and cruise control. Additionally, the Punch seats up to five people and offers generous boot space, along with 187 mm of ground clearance.

On the safety front, the Tata Punch comes with a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. Standard features include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear defoggers, rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and ISOFIX anchors. 

Tata Punch: Key specifications

Tata Punch: Key features

• Generous seating capacity and impressive boot of 366 litres
• Impressive safety features, giving it a 5-star Globla NCAP safety rating 
• Fuel efficient, with good ground clearance; impressive for the compact SUV segment

Check out our collection of Used Tata Punch Cars in India

Factors influencing the cost of automatic cars

Automatic cars are typically more expensive as they are more complex and expensive to manufacture, compared to manual transmissions. Moreover, automatic transmissions are more expensive to maintain. 

In addition to higher initial costs, the complexity of automatic gearboxes contributes to increased repair costs and potentially higher insurance premiums. This distinction is particularly noticeable in entry-level vehicles, where the presence of automatic transmissions can significantly raise costs for buyers. This is why many consumers opt for manual variants to save on both initial purchase prices and ongoing maintenance expenses throughout the car's lifespan. This financial consideration makes manual transmissions a more appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Unique benefits of automatic cars

• Ease in Heavy Traffic: With seamless gear changes, automatic cars are easier to maneuver in heavy traffic.
• Ease of Learning: Learning to drive becomes quicker and less complicated because there's no need to manually shift gears.
• Driving Comfort: Clutchless operation makes automatic cars less tiring in heavy traffic conditions.

Factors to consider before buying automatic cars 

• Difficulty in mastering: While automatic cars offer ease of use, those accustomed to manual transmissions might find it initially challenging to adjust and may feel unfamiliar at first.
• Fuel efficiency considerations: Historically, people have preferred manual cars due to their superior fuel efficiency. However, advancements in technology related to automatic transmission have narrowed this gap. Potential buyers should consider the specific fuel economy ratings of different automatic models before making a buying decision. 
• Cost factors: Automatic variants are often costlier compared to their manual counterparts. Further, maintenance and repair costs may be higher due to the complexity of automatic gearboxes. The complexity of automatic gearboxes may also affect insurance premiums, potentially increasing the overall cost of ownership.
• Driver focus and engagement: Driving a manual car demands more attention from the driver, as gear changes require manual intervention. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, simplify driving by automatically handling gear shifts. But the drivers should be careful to maintain attention on long drives. 

Automatic cars are here to stay! 

As automatic cars gain traction in the Indian market, the divide between manual and automatic transmissions is steadily closing. Maruti Suzuki India Ltd., the country’s leading carmaker, celebrated the sales of a million automatic vehicles in October 2023, with nearly 1 lakh units sold in the previous financial year alone. Despite this uptick, automatic cars still have a long way to go before becoming the preferred choice of buyers. If you’re considering a switch to a car with an automatic gearbox, understanding these advancements and their implications—such as improved ease of use in traffic, enhanced fuel efficiency, and evolving cost-effectiveness—will help you make informed decisions aligned with your driving needs, lifestyle, and preferences. 

FAQ

Q. Which automatic car is best for beginners?

This depends on the buyer’s preference. Considering a variety of factors, the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso, Maruti Suzuki Wagon R, Tata Tiago, and Renault Kwid are some of the most preferred automatic cars for beginners.

Q. Which is the cheapest automatic car to buy?

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 AGS, with ex-showroom price between ₹5.6 and ₹5.9 lakh, is the cheapest automatic car in India.

Q. Which automatic cars are budget friendly?

All 15 cars mentioned in the list above are budget-friendly, and cost less than ₹10 lakh. 

Q. Which car brand is best for automatics?

Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Tata can be considered the most dependable brands for automatic cars in India.