India stands as a global powerhouse in the automotive market, with a constant surge in demand for affordable cars. Within a budget of Rs 10 lakhs, there exists a plethora of options that boast impressive performance, features, and value for money. However, the abundance of choices can often lead to confusion. To navigate through this maze, we present the top 5 cars under Rs 10 lakhs in India, providing clarity on which ones merit your consideration for purchase.
1. Tata Altroz
Let’s kick things off with the Altroz, Tata’s standout premium hatchback in this segment. Notably, it’s the sole hatchback in India to boast a remarkable 5-star crash test rating from GNCAP. Under its hood, the Altroz offers a variety of engine choices, including a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.2-liter turbo petrol, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine. Packed with features, the Altroz includes conveniences like a wireless charger, auto headlamps, cruise control, and a Harman sound system. With a starting price of Rs 7.80 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), the Altroz presents an enticing option in the sub-10 lakh bracket.
2. Tata Punch
Let’s dive into the world of SUVs, starting with the Punch. Don’t let its compact size fool you – this SUV knows how to pack a punch! With Tata’s recent BS6 update, the 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine has been refined to churn out an impressive 87bhp and 115Nm of torque. You’ve got the choice between a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox for transmission. Priced from Rs 7.12 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), the Tata Punch proves that big adventures can come in small packages.
3. Hyundai Exter
Hyundai’s latest entry into the SUV (or whatever you’d like to label it) scene seems like a compelling choice under Rs 10 lakhs. With all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a Hyundai, it boasts features like an electric sunroof, digital instrument cluster, 8.0-inch infotainment system, and automatic climate control. Under the hood, you’ll find a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering a respectable 81bhp and 113.8Nm of torque. Transmission options include both manual and AMT gearboxes, with the added bonus of a CNG variant available for the Exter. With prices ranging from Rs 7.13 lakh to Rs 12.78 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), the Exter presents an enticing option for budget-conscious SUV enthusiasts.
4. Honda Amaze
Looking for a sedan under Rs 10 lakhs? Look no further than the Honda Amaze. As a Honda, it’s a no-frills, all-thrills package with unbeatable refinement and legendary reliability. While it may not have all the fancy bells and whistles, it’s got everything you need and then some. Under the hood, you’ll find a peppy petrol engine churning out 88bhp and 110Nm of torque, giving you plenty of oomph for your daily drive. Plus, you’ve got the choice between a manual transmission or an automatic gearbox, making every journey a breeze. With prices starting from just Rs 8.25 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), the Honda Amaze is your ticket to sedan bliss without breaking the bank.
5. Maruti Fronx
In the Indian automotive scene, the Maruti Fronx emerges as a unique contender, blending elements of the Baleno’s premium hatchback lineage with the allure of a coupe-SUV. Despite its petrol engine, it boasts an impressive ARAI-certified mileage of 21.79kmpl, outshining even some diesel counterparts. Plus, with no discounts available in November 2023, its exclusivity adds to its appeal.
While the Fronx faces no direct rivals in its category, it stands tall against the Kia Sonet HTE 1.2 Petrol MT variant, boasting superior features like automatic climate control, wireless phone connectivity, and a sleek seven-inch touchscreen system. As anticipation mounts for discounts on the Sonet’s facelifted model, expected in December, the Fronx continues to shine with its Delta 1.2L MT variant priced at Rs. 9.63 lakh, offering a compelling choice in the sub-10 lakh segment.
6. Nissan Magnite
The Nissan Magnite proves to be a delight for both drivers and passengers alike, offering ample space and the convenience of an automatic transmission at an affordable price point. Priced at Rs. 9.61 lakh for the XV AMT variant, it presents a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to its counterparts, the Magnite boasts additional features such as electrically foldable ORVMs, automatic climate control, six speakers, and child-seat anchorage points. However, potential buyers may find the Renault Kiger’s offerings appealing, including four airbags, ESP, rear AC vents, and all-LED lighting, making it a tough competitor in the segment.
7. Renault Triber
In the realm of budget MPVs, the Renault Triber finds itself in direct competition with the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. While the entry-level LXi(O) variant of the Ertiga slightly surpasses our budget at Rs. 10.06 lakh, the Triber holds its own with notable advantages, particularly in safety. With a four-star rating in Global-NCAP tests compared to the Ertiga’s three stars, the Triber offers enhanced protection. Additionally, it boasts two extra airbags, totaling four, along with features like TPMS and a traction control system. Notably, all three rows in the Triber benefit from dedicated AC vents, a feature absent in the Ertiga’s third row, further solidifying the Triber’s appeal.
Maruti Suzuki Swift
The 2024 Maruti Suzuki Swift has been unveiled in Germany, with a design reminiscent of its Japanese counterpart revealed earlier. The Maruti Swift is powered by a 1.2-litre DualJet petrol engine, producing 89PS of power and 113Nm of torque. It offers both 5-speed manual and AMT transmissions. With a claimed fuel efficiency of 23.20kmpl in manual and 23.76kmpl in automatic variants, it includes idle start-stop functionality.
The Swift comes equipped with a range of features including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice command functionality, cruise control, automatic climate control, and keyless entry with push-button start-stop. Safety is paramount, with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP with hill assist, and a reverse parking camera with parking sensors ensuring peace of mind on the road. Pricing for the 2024 Maruti Suzuki Swift in India is expected to range from Rs 5.99 to 9.03 lakhs, catering to a wide range of budgets.
Mahindra Bolero
The Mahindra Bolero, priced between Rs 9.78 lakh to Rs 10.79 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), offers customers a choice of three trims: B4, B6, and B6(O). Designed to seat up to five passengers comfortably, the Bolero is a versatile option for families and small groups.
Under the hood, it houses a 1.5-litre diesel engine generating 75PS of power and 210Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. This combination ensures efficient performance across various driving conditions. Inside, the Bolero is equipped with modern features such as a digital instrument cluster, manual air conditioning, and a Bluetooth-enabled music system with AUX and USB connectivity. Convenience features like power windows and power steering enhance the overall driving experience.
Safety is a key priority, with the Bolero offering dual front airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and reverse parking sensors. These features provide peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike, especially in challenging situations on the road.
Mahindra XUV300
The Mahindra XUV300 is a popular 5-seater SUV with the option of front-wheel drive (FWD). With prices ranging from Rs. 7.99 lakh for the base model to Rs. 14.76 lakh for the top model, it offers a total of 25 variants across both 1197 cc and 1497 cc engine options. Available in both petrol and diesel variants, with manual and automatic transmission choices, the XUV300 caters to diverse preferences.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the petrol version offers a mileage of 18.24 kmpl, while the diesel version provides 20.1 kmpl. Safety is a strong suit for the XUV300, boasting a 5-star safety rating in global NCAP crash tests and equipped with 2-6 safety airbags, depending on the variant. With a wide range of color options—11 in total—the XUV300 allows buyers to choose according to their preferences. Based on user reviews, the XUV300 has garnered an impressive overall user rating of 4.6 out of 5, reflecting its popularity and satisfaction among owners.
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