Top 15 Cheapest Cars In India 2024 : Price, Mileage, Specifications

The small, affordable car category in India is one that has seen a lot of evolution over the years. There was a time when all they represented was an uncomplicated way to get to your destination. Today, the most affordable cars in India stand for a lot more than that. Not only are they cheap to purchase and affordable to run, but they’re also efficient, feature-packed, comfortable and fun to drive (in certain cases).Our list of the 15 cheapest cars on sale naturally focuses on one primary aspect: their price tags. 

A peek at the following table will reveal that Maruti Suzuki unsurprisingly has a diverse set of options. That said, competition isn’t sparse, and cars from Tata, Hyundai, and Renault are growing in popularity. Which car suits you best is down to your personal preferences and biases, but this list will definitely help narrow down your options.

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1) Citroen C3 | Starting MSRP: ₹6.1 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The quirky-looking Citroen C3 kicks off this list, and there are a lot of reasons to seriously consider the French hatchback. Keeping aside the price tag for a moment, the C3 comes across as a vehicle that’s equipped with a peppy-yet-fuel-efficient set of engines, rides well, and has good seat cushioning for comfortable journeys. Priced between ₹6.1-10.1 lakh (ex-showroom), the C3 is quite an attractive package.

It’s also worth noting that the C3 has a good number of customisation options offered from Citroen itself, so getting the car looking more suited to your individual tastes becomes easier. Aside from that, Citroen has also made the C3 with 90% localised components, which will no doubt ensure a better ownership experience in terms of after-sales service.

Citroen C3 key specifications

Citroen C3 key features

• 10.25-inch infotainment screen
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Mobile dock with wire organiser

Pros

• Peppy engine performance
• Good ride quality
• Value for money

Cons

• Limited features list
• Limited transmission options
• Lacklustre handling

2) Tata Punch | Starting MSRP: ₹6.1 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Tata Punch has been a sales success for the Indian manufacturer, thanks to its well-rounded approach, handsome styling, and attention to safety. Priced between ₹6.1-10.1 lakh, (ex-showroom), the Tata Punch is quite a versatile package. 

On the features front, highlights include a sunroof, 6-speaker Harman sound system, cruise control, two drive modes, auto headlamps, a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a lot more. On the safety front, the Punch gets two airbags, electronic brakeforce distribution, ISOFIX child seat mounts (and a 4-star global NCAP child safety rating to boot).

The Punch’s 1,199cc petrol engine makes 87 bhp and 115 Nm, and is paired to either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed AMT. While its power output might not be something to write home about, its efficiency figure of up to 26.9 kmpl is a big plus. In addition to that, with comfortable seats for up to five passengers and a boot space of 366 litres, the Punch is a compact SUV that’s well worth considering.

Tata Punch key specifications

 Tata Punch key features

• Sunroof
• 6-speaker Harman sound system
• Automatic climate control

Pros

• Value for money
• Good ride quality
• Comfortable rear seat

Cons

• Weak engine performance
• Not enough steering feedback
• Cramped shoulder room at rear

3) Hyundai Exter | Starting MSRP: ₹6.1 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Hyundai the second biggest car manufacturer in India in terms of sales, and the Exter micro-crossover is one of their standout offerings. Launched in 2023, the Exter is ideal if you want the compact proportions of a hatchback, but with the added flexibility of an SUV form factor.

A direct consequence of its tall-boy design is that cabin space receives a shot in the arm, so ferrying up to five passengers won’t be a concern. It also makes enough power. There’s just one engine option: a 1.2-litre petrol unit that makes 82 bhp and 114 Nm. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT, with the latter being a convenient pick if you deal with heavy traffic situations often.

Hyundai’s cars have come to be quite popular thanks to the amount of features they pack in. In this regard, the Exter carries on that trend. The highlights are a factory-fitted two-way dash cam, a sunroof, and even paddle shifters for the AMT-equipped variants. On the whole, the Exter stands out as a great compact option that’s comfortable, spacious, efficient (up to 27.1 kmpl) and affordable (starting ex-showroom) price of ₹6.1 lakh, and goes all the way up to ₹10.4 lakh. 

Hyundai Exter key specifications

Hyundai Exter key features

• Dashcam
• Sunroof
• Paddle shifters with AMT

Pros

• Six airbags as standard
• Spacious cabin
• Feature-loaded

Cons

• Not engaging to drive
• Design is hit-or-miss
• Top-spec trims are expensive

4) Renault Kiger | Starting MSRP: ₹5.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

One of Renault’s three offerings on this list is the competent Kiger compact SUV. While it may seem like a left field option, there is no denying that the Renault Kiger is an attractive, safety-oriented, comfortable option in its segment. Renault has priced the Kiger compact SUV between ₹5.9-11.2 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Kiger is the beneficiary of a four-star rating for adult occupant protection in the GNCAP safety tests. Aside from that, the highlights include a total of 29 litres of storage in the cabin, with 405 litres of boot space (879 litres by folding down the 60:40 split rear seats). There’s also the ease with which it manoeuvres city traffic, thanks to the compact dimensions, high seating, and good visibility all around. It even gets a five-speed AMT as an option, which when combined with light controls makes it a competent city runabout.

Renault Kiger key specifications

Renault Kiger key features

• LED DRLs
• 8-inch touchscreen
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity

Pros

• 4-star GNCAP safety rating
• Good engine performance
• Ease manoeuvrability

Cons

• Cramped rear seat for three abreast
• High loading lip for boot
• Sub-par plastic quality

5) Renault Triber | Starting MSRP: ₹5.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

For those on the lookout for a people-hauling van on a budget that’s not badged a Maruti Suzuki, the Renault Triber makes for a worthy consideration. Given its starting ex-showroom price of ₹5.9 lakh, the French manufacturer has aimed to cram in as much utility into the seven-seater as possible.

As of January, 2024, the Renault Triber received quite a few updates. These include a new digital instrument cluster borrowed from the Kiger, a wireless charger, a driver-side armrest, and powered outside rear-view mirrors. It also gets the option of a new ‘Stealth Black’ exterior paint shade in addition to the other regular colours. 

The powertrain remains the same as earlier, which gives the Triber adequate grunt on the move, even with a full complement of passengers. Needless to say, as a van, the Triber’s main goal is to ferry a lot of people, and here it shines. The cabin’s space utilisation is excellent, especially once you factor in the price point, and despite being as long as it is, manoeuvring city traffic is easy thanks to light controls.

Renault Triber key specifications

Renault Triber key features

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
• Wireless phone charger

Pros

• Good space utilization
• Ease to manoeuvre
• Affordability

Cons

• Weak engine performance
• Limited boot space with all rows up
• Cheap plastic quality in cabin

6) Nissan Magnite | Starting MSRP: ₹5.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Nissan Magnite is the newest kid on the block, thanks to a whole host of updates recently. Despite all the changes, however, Nissan has still left the starting price the same at ₹5.9 lakh, and the top model being priced at ₹9.1 lakh (ex-showroom), which is commendable.

As part of the facelift, the Magnite receives an updated instrument cluster with better graphics, although the touchscreen infotainment system remains the same. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, connected car tech, wireless smartphone charging, a digital driver display unit, ambient lighting, and six airbags as standard are just some of the features you can look forward to. Most notably, the exterior receives revised styling and a new grille, L-shaped LED DRLs, a revised bumper, updated tail-lamps and a new alloy wheel design.

As far as the engine goes, the Magnite still gets powered by the same 1.0-litre petrol engine with 99 bhp and 152 Nm. Transmission options, too, remain the same, with a five-speed manual and a CVT.

Nissan Magnite key specifications

Nissan Magnite key features

• Six airbags as standard
• Rear spoiler
• 3.5-inch digital instrument cluster

Pros

• Adequate engine performance
• Good ground clearance
• Spacious cabin

Cons

• Heavy steering
• Average ride quality
• Plastic quality in cabin needs could be better

7) Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | Starting MSRP: ₹5.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Since its launch more than a decade ago in 2013, the Grand i10 has always been the go-to choice for a fuss-free, no-nonsense and capable small car. In its latest avatar, the Grand i10 Nios, it’s a great option to consider if you want a compact car that can do it all. It’s compact, but spacious enough for up to five passengers on the inside, comes with plenty of features, and is easy to manoeuvre in urban driving conditions. The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is priced between ₹5.9-8.5 lakh (ex-showroom).

It’s powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine that makes 82 bhp and 114 Nm, which is more than adequate for city commutes and the occasional highway run. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT, with the latter making it easy to drive even for beginners. Efficiency is respectable too, with the Grand i10 Nios returning up to 26.2 kmpl.

The Grand i10’s feature list is quite impressive for a small car. Highlights include cruise control, wireless phone charging and up to six airbags.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios key specifications

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios key features

• Cruise control
• Wireless phone charging
• Up to six airbags

Pros

• Good cabin space
• Plenty of features
• Good fit and finish

Cons

• Ride is bouncy at high speeds
• Steering could be more responsive

8) Maruti Suzuki Ignis | Starting MSRP: ₹5.8 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

If quirky styling, compact proportions, and a driving experience that’s easy and fun are your priorities, then the Maruti Suzuki Ignis should be high up on your considerations list. It’s also quite affordable, with a starting price of just ₹5.8 lakh, which goes up to ₹8 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top model.

It’s powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine that makes 82 bhp and 113 Nm, which is more than enough for city conditions. The Ignis’s controls are light, so navigating dense traffic is easy to do. What also helps is that it gets the option of a 5-speed AMT (there’s also a 5-speed manual option), so you can give your left leg a break during drives.

Cabin space is good enough for five passengers, but four aboard will be more comfortable for longer distances. The Ignis is also efficient, with it returning up to 20.89 kmpl. Overall, the Ignis makes for an interesting choice thanks to its compact proportions, ease of driving, and affordability.

Maruti Suzuki Ignis key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Ignis key features

• LED projector headlamps
• Maruti Suzuki-offered customisation options
• Dual airbags, ABS with EBD standard across the range

Pros

• Plenty of storage spaces in the cabin
• Good fit and finish
• Refined, peppy engine

Cons

• Cramped rear seat
• Jerky AMT gearbox
• Quirky styling is hit-or-miss

9) Maruti Suzuki Wagon R | Starting MSRP: ₹5.5 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Wagon R has been one of the standout performers for Maruti Suzuki, and comes across as a versatile hatchback. Its tall-boy design helps it liberate some very useful space in the cabin, and it also features comfortable ride quality, a decent amount of features, and great fuel efficiency.

The Wagon R is available in two petrol options, a 1.0-litre and a 1.2-litre. Only the ZXi and ZXi+ variants get the latter, though. There’s also a CNG option that helps boost efficiency. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or an AMT. 

Features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, steering mounted controls for the infotainment, rear wiper, defogger, and outside rear-view mirrors with integrated turn indicators. As for safety, the Wagon R comes with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and ESP, and also rear parking sensors and a hill-hold assist function.

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R packs in a lot of value as a comfortable, easy to drive, and practical city runabout, especially once you factor in its price (₹5.5-7.3 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi).

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R key features

• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
• 60:40 split rear seat
• ABS with EBD

Pros

• Compact footprint makes it easy to manoeuvre
• Good ride quality
• Spacious cabin

Cons

• Unengaging drive
• NVH levels could be better contained
• Boxy looks

10) Maruti Suzuki Eeco | Starting MSRP: ₹5.3 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

One of the longest-standing vehicles on this list is the Maruti Eeco.Practically speaking, the Eeco isn’t the first option to consider if you want a well-rounded van, especially once you factor in that its overall design hasn’t changed since it first launched (it debuted as the Versa in 2001).

That said, the two things it has on its side to this date are its price and sheer dedication to function over form. For the latter, it has a space-maximising boxy design and simple body lines all around. This is ideal if all you need is equipment/people hauling needs. You can spec it in five- and seven-seat configurations, and if the need comes about, it can be specced without an air conditioner, too. 

Its engine is a 1.2-litre BS6-compliant petrol unit that puts out 80 bhp and 104 Nm, which is adequate for the kind of car it is. The transmission option is restricted to a five-speed manual, with a mileage of 20.2 kmpl.

Maruti Suzuki Eeco key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Eeco key features

• 540 litres of boot space
• Digital speedometer
• Sliding doors

Pros

• Third row bench optional
• Peppy engine
• Good fuel efficiency

Cons

• Fit and finish
• Fleet taxi favourite
• Bad driving dynamics

11) Maruti Suzuki Celerio | Starting MSRP: ₹5.3 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

For the kind of money it commands, few bring as competent a package together as the Maruti Suzuki Celerio. It’s effortless to drive, can fit in anywhere thanks to its compact proportions, affords great visibility from behind the wheel, and is a well-rounded package for the money.

There’s a 998cc petrol engine that makes 66 bhp and 89 Nm, and it’s paired to either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. The latter is a great option for those who are just learning how to drive. The Celerio is also very efficient, returning up to 34.4 kmpl (for the CNG-equipped variant). The cabin is also spacious enough to seat up to five passengers, making it a great option if you need to ferry people within city limits.

Maruti Suzuki Celerio key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Celerio key features

• Passive keyless entry
• Idle engine start/stop
• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment

Pros

• Easy to manoeuvre in the city
• Peppy engine
• Fuel efficient

Cons

• Jerky AMT gearbox
• Sub-par steering response
• Limited features list

12) Tata Tiago | Starting MSRP: ₹4.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

As far as well-rounded hatchbacks go, the Tata Tiago is one of the easiest recommendations to make, not least because of its low starting MSRP of ₹4.9 lakh for the base model, and goes up to ₹8.7 lakh (ex-showroom).

It’s powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine that makes 84 bhp and 113 Nm, and you get two transmission options: a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT. The Tiago is available in five variants: XE, XM, XT (O), XT and the range-topping XZ+. In terms of features, you get a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a fully digital instrument cluster, auto climate control and a cooled glovebox, among others.

Safety features include ABS with EBD, two airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system, ESC, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and seatbelt pretensioners for the front seats. The Tiago’s boot space, at 242 litres, isn’t the most generous, but the rear seats are comfortable and seating five in the Tiago is possible.

Tata Tiago key specifications

Tata Tiago key features

• Digital instrument cluster
• Auto climate control
• 8-speaker sound system

Pros

• Well-proportioned design
• Responsive engine
• 4-star safety rating

Cons

• Interior quality can be better
• 3-cylinder engine gets vibey at idle
• Manual gear shift quality could be better

13) Renault Kwid | Starting MSRP: ₹4.6 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

At its core, the Renault Kwid is a competent, efficient, quirky and convenient option to consider in the hatchback segment. Its case as a worthy consideration gets strengthened thanks to the low starting price of ₹4.6 lakh, making it quite a value-for-money proposition.

In terms of dimensions, it’s slightly larger than rivals like the Alto K10 and the S-Presso, but that doesn’t take away from the ease with which it’s able to navigate dense traffic conditions. Powering it is a 999cc petrol engine that makes 67 bhp and 91 Nm, and you can pair it with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. One of the Kwid’s highlights is that it has light controls, so navigating tight parking spots or dense traffic isn’t stressful. It also rides well, so bumps and potholes aren’t a concern. The Kwid is also quite efficient, returning up to 22 kmpl.

Renault Kwid key specifications

Renault Kwid key features

• Reverse camera
• Rear power windows
• Rear armrest

Pros

• Light controls make it easy to drive
• Good ride quality
• Compact footprint makes it easy to drive in the city

Cons

• Three abreast at the rear is tight
• Not an engaging drive
• Inconsistent fit and finish levels

14) Maruti Suzuki S-Presso | Starting MSRP: ₹4.2 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The Maruti Suzuki S-Presso may not be the best-looking vehicle on sale today, but that shouldn’t take the spotlight away from its strengths as a competent, comfortable, and compact city runabout. Factor in the low starting price of ₹4.2 lakh, and ₹6.1 lakh for the top model, the S-Presso starts making a lot of sense.

For the money, you can squeeze in five passengers and a bit of luggage if it’s required. What’s also great about the S-Presso is that it makes enough power to tackle city conditions. There’s a 998cc petrol engine that makes 56 bhp and 82 Nm, and you can pair it with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. It’s also very efficient (with up to 32 kmpl if you opt for the CNG version), and is easy to manoeuvre, especially in dense traffic conditions.

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso key specifications

Maruti Suzuki S-Presso key features

• 7-inch touchscreen
• Steering-mounted control

Pros

• Good ride quality
• Good cabin space
• Light controls make it easy to drive

Cons

• Looks divide opinion
• Fit and finish levels could be better
• Top-spec trims can get expensive

15) Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 | Starting MSRP: ₹3.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Last on this list, but in no way the least, is the ever-present Maruti Suzuki Alto, now sold only in the K10 avatar. Thanks to its combination of practicality, efficiency, and affordability, the Indian carmaker has had an unprecedented run of success with this little hatchback. Priced between ₹3.9-5.9 lakh (ex-showroom), the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 is the cheapest car you can buy in India.

As far as compact daily runabouts go, it’s hard to overlook the venerable Alto K10. Its proportions (its length is well under the sub-4-metre mark at 3,530mm) make it easy to manoeuvre in traffic. On top of that, the light controls make it ideal if you’re just getting used to being behind the wheel of a car.

The Alto K10 also makes a decent amount of grunt. A total power output of 56 bhp and 82.1 Nm from a 998c petrol engine may not sound like world-beating figures, but thanks to the Alto K10’s low kerb weight, it feels sprightly in city conditions. What also helps is that the Alto K10 is offered in two transmission options: a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT, with the latter once again being handy for first-time drivers.

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 key specifications

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 key features

• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment
• AGS automatic transmission

Pros

• Compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre
• Peppy engine
• Extensive Maruti dealer network

Cons

• Looks are dated
• Top-spec trims are expensive
• NVH levels could be better

Conclusion

India is currently witnessing an explosion of new models in every possible segment, which puts the buyer in an enviable (if sometimes overwhelming) position when it comes to choice. That said, car manufacturers are still pumping out some incredibly competent vehicles that are affordable, practical, feature-rich, and efficient in equal measure, which is great news for buyers looking to upgrade to their first vehicle.

What’s also great to see is that it’s not just one manufacturer dominating the sales charts. There are plenty of interesting options from the likes of Hyundai, Tata, Renault, Nissan, and even Citroen to seriously consider. All in, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that having a limited budget today no longer means you have to settle for a compromised vehicle.

FAQs

Q. Which car is the cheapest in 2024?

The cheapest vehicle on sale in India in 2024 is the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, with a starting MSRP of ₹3.9 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Q. Which car is best on a low budget?

It depends on your personal requirements, but a good all-rounder to consider for a low budget is the Maruti Suzuki Celerio which costs between ₹4.9-7 lakh (ex-showroom).

Q. Is 2024 a good time to buy a car?

Given the amount of options available currently, there is no better time than now to buy a car.

Q. Will car prices go down in 2024?

It is possible that deals and discounts can be had nearing the end of the year, with dealerships looking to offload existing inventory.

Q. Is there still a car shortage in 2024?

Unlike in early 2023, there have been no supply-side constraints in 2024.