Top 10 Best Cars Under 10 Lakhs in India

With increasingly more people asking for cheaper yet not compromising upon performance, features, or safety, the requirement for affordable automobiles in India will continue to escalate. The new urbanization; better road structure; and now a rising number of personal usage vehicles, both for the middle class, a family, as well as other enthusiasts, push the sweet spot to ₹ 10 lakh for first-time car buyers. This price band is apt because it includes comfort, quality, and affordability that attract the most. As their sensibilities rise, consumers would desire cars not only for their practicality but also for attractive designs and are more technologically advanced. This and many more demands are made on such automobiles, so several models are offered by carmakers to cater to nearly every requirement of the buyer. In the article that follows, we take prospective buyers through the best cars under ₹ 10 lakhs in India for 2025, thereby providing them with an informed decision based on their unique needs.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Car Under ₹10 Lakhs

• Fuel Type: There are different types of fuels available according to your need of driving and the respective fuel prices that come with it. Although a petrol car is the most commonly produced and an economical one, diesel and CNG models are more fuel-friendly. As electric vehicles seem to be an eco-friendly alternative that reduces operating costs, it makes them a wonderful choice for an ecologically conscious buyer.
• Mileage & Performance: For day-to-day city drivers and also long-distance, mileage is really a crucial element. Check the fuel efficiency of all the models and choose one depending on whether it would be your primary city-use car or long-distance vehicle. Also, never forget other performance elements: how powerful its engine is, its acceleration from a standstill, and even handling characteristics that should make it enjoyable to drive.
• Safety Features: Most customers at the time of buying a car are bothered about safety. Ensure that your car holds some basic safety features, like airbags, ABS, and traction. Many car manufacturers in this range have begun to give advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. NCAP ratings on safety also are a piece of helpful information regarding the car's crashworthiness and overall safety level.
• Maintenance & Resale Value: Long-term ownership costs also encompass the notion of maintenance requirements, intervals for service, and replacement parts. It would be wise to determine whether the car has good resale value and if it is fairly easy to maintain. Most models in this segment have reportedly been known to offer reliable after-sales service and ease in sourcing spare parts.
• Features and Comfort: Current cars are bestowed with many features that make for comfort as well as convenience. Some of these features include modern infotainment systems with touchscreen, Bluetooth, climate control, and cabin space. Assess the comfort requirements, so the car has all adjustments for seats and legroom to provide enough boot space, not only for short drives but for long drives also.

Top 10 Best Cars Under ₹10 Lakhs (2025)

1. Maruti Suzuki Swift

• Maximum Power: 88.5 bhp @ 6000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 113 Nm @ 4400 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual / Automatic (AMT)
• Engine: 1.2L DualJet petrol engine
• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
• Mileage: 22.56 km/l (Petrol), 30.9 km/kg (CNG)
• Body Type: Hatchback
• Seating Capacity: 5

Key Features:

• SmartPlay Studio touchscreen infotainment
• Cruise control
• Automatic climate control
• Dual airbags and ABS with EBD
• LED projector headlamps
• Hill hold assist (AMT variants)
• Keyless entry and push-button start
• 60:40 split rear seat

2. Tata Nexon

• Maximum Power: 118.3 bhp @ 5500 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 260 Nm @ 1250-2500 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual / AMT
• Engine: 1.2L Turbocharged Revotron petrol / 1.5L Revotorq diesel
• Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
• Mileage: 17.57 km/l (Petrol), 21.5 km/l (Diesel)
• Body Type: Compact SUV
• Seating Capacity: 5

Key Features:

• 5-star GNCAP rating
• Electric sunroof
• Connected car tech (iRA)
• Harman audio system
• Multi-drive modes
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Rear AC vents
• Digital instrument cluster

3. Hyundai Exter

• Maximum Power: 82 bhp @ 6000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 114 Nm @ 4000 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual / AMT
• Engine: 1.2L petrol
• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
• Mileage: 20.1 km/l (Petrol), 27.1 km/kg (CNG)
• Body Type: Micro SUV
• Seating Capacity: 5

Key Features:

• Dual-camera dashcam
• Wireless charging
• Voice-enabled sunroof
• 6 airbags
• Rear parking camera
• LED DRLs
• 8-inch touchscreen
• TPMS

4. Maruti Suzuki Brezza

• Maximum Power: 102 bhp @ 6000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 137 Nm @ 4400 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual / 6-speed AT
• Engine: 1.5L Smart Hybrid petrol
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Mileage: 20.15 km/l
• Body Type: Compact SUV
• Seating Capacity: 5

Key Features:

• Electric sunroof
• 360-degree camera
• SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment
• ESP with Hill Hold
• Paddle shifters
• Ambient lighting
• Push-button start
• Dual-tone colors

5. Tata Punch

• Maximum Power: 86 bhp @ 6000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 113 Nm @ 3300 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual / AMT
• Engine: 1.2L Revotron petrol
• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
• Mileage: 18.9 km/l (Petrol), 26.99 km/kg (CNG)
• Body Type: Micro SUV
• Seating Capacity: 5

Key Features:

• 5-star GNCAP rating
• Projector headlamps
• Semi-digital cluster
• Touchscreen infotainment
• Automatic headlamps
• Rear camera
• Flat-bottom steering
• 16-inch alloy wheels

6. Skoda Slavia

• Maximum Power: 114 bhp / 148 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 178 Nm / 250 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual / DSG
• Engine: 1.0L TSI / 1.5L TSI
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Mileage: 18.07-19.47 km/l
• Body Type: Sedan
• Seating Capacity: 5

Key Features:

• Dual-zone climate control
• Digital cluster
• Ventilated seats
• Wireless charger
• 6 airbags
• Electric sunroof
• 10-inch infotainment
• Multi-link suspension

7. Kia Carens

• Maximum Power: 113 bhp / 138 bhp
• Maximum Torque: 144 Nm / 250 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual / Automatic
• Engine: 1.5L petrol / 1.4L turbo
• Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
• Mileage: 20 km/l (Diesel)
• Body Type: MPV
• Seating Capacity: 6-7

Key Features:

• 10.25-inch infotainment
• Ventilated seats
• Ambient lighting
• Multi-drive modes
• Bose sound system
• Air purifier
• 6 airbags
• Flexible seating

8. Mahindra Bolero Neo

• Maximum Power: 100 bhp @ 3750 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 260 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual
• Engine: 1.5L diesel
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Mileage: 17.29 km/l
• Body Type: SUV
• Seating Capacity: 7

Key Features:

• Micro-hybrid tech
• Digital cluster
• Static bending lamps
• Rear AC vents
• Tilt steering
• Eco mode
• Ladder-frame construction
• Foldable jump seats

9. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga

• Maximum Power: 102 bhp @ 6000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 137 Nm @ 4400 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual / Automatic
• Engine: 1.5L Smart Hybrid
• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
• Mileage: 20.51 km/l (Petrol), 26.11 km/kg (CNG)
• Body Type: MPV
• Seating Capacity: 7

Key Features:

• SmartPlay Pro
• Roof AC vents
• Paddle shifters
• Dual airbags
• One-touch tumble seats
• Push-button start
• Smart Hybrid tech
• ISOFIX anchors

10. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

• Maximum Power: 101 bhp / 114 bhp (Hybrid)
• Maximum Torque: 136 Nm / 141 Nm (Hybrid)
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual / e-CVT
• Engine: 1.5L petrol / Hybrid
• Fuel Type: Petrol / Hybrid
• Mileage: 21.1-27.97 km/l
• Body Type: Compact SUV
• Seating Capacity: 5

Key Features:

• Panoramic sunroof
• 360-degree camera
• Head-up display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Drive modes with AWD
• Advanced hybrid system
• Ventilated seats
• 6 airbags

Best Cars for Specific Needs

Best for City Driving

The Maruti Suzuki Swift is a great city driver as its compact size and outstanding fuel efficiency help it navigate the narrow lanes, congested traffic, and tight parking spots which are normal in urban environments. In terms of handling and light steering, it makes driving easy, even through the busiest city streets. The Swift has a robust build and low maintenance costs, so it is good for daily commutes in an urban setting.

Best for Long Distances

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is an excellent option for those who make long trips very often, as it is fitted with a hybrid engine, capable of giving both worlds: high highway fuel efficiency and high performance. It rides well and the suspension system has been tuned so that it doesn't jar one's bones when travelling long distances. It offers considerable cabin space and plush interiors besides a spacious boot for luggage to ensure that one can rest assured that their passengers are comfortably accommodated throughout the trip, while advanced safety features guarantee worry-free travel in case of longer journeys.

Best Fuel-Efficient Option

With one of the finest mileage ratings - 23-24 km/l, the Maruti Suzuki Swift maintains its position at the topmost rung. It is a great value for money considering the amount of time spent behind the wheels covering distances in both city and highways. It is light in weight and coupled with a highly efficient engine that does not have frequent fuel stops in daily commutes and for long trips. It is also known to give much comfort as it comes with the features of modernity; therefore, it's one of the preference lists for budget-conscious buyers. .

Best Feature-Rich Car

Tata Nexon is an absolute standout in the under-₹10 lakh category. It gives that premium feel, with a gamut of sophisticated features. Infotainment features include a state-of-the-art infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and also a touchscreen display. The Nexon also boasts an impressive suite of safety features: multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, and cornering stability control. It is equipped with an elegant interior cabin, providing great leg space, a comfortable seating arrangement, and premium surfaces to improve the overall ride experience. For a technophile looking for a car with excellent safety features, the Nexon is undoubtedly the best and does not compromise on any aspect of performance.

The best car under ₹10 lakhs in India can be chosen only after considering the unique needs you have, such as fuel efficiency, performance, safety, or features. Cars listed above vary from one another and cater to different needs: city traffic, long-distance drives, or comfort and space for family trips. This is the Indian automotive market evolving; 2025 is a new generation of cars that will allow affordability with cutting-edge technology, which introduces new features and better mileage. Worth considering these factors as the type of fuel used, various safety features, long-term costs, and more before making a choice will one choose a car that not only fits the lifestyle of a person but also provides durable and reliable service for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which car under ₹10 lakhs is best for families?
The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and Kia Carens are excellent choices for families due to their spacious interiors and 7-seater capacity, providing ample room for passengers. Both cars also offer a smooth ride and a range of safety features, making them ideal for family trips.

Are electric cars under ₹10 lakhs a good investment in 2025?
Electric cars like the Tata Nexon EV and the Hyundai Exter EV offer eco-friendly options with good range and lower running costs, making them a promising investment, especially in urban areas with a growing EV infrastructure. These cars have a lower carbon footprint, and minimal maintenance, and the cost of ownership is reducing as the charging infrastructure expands.

What are the best financing options for cars in this segment?
Most car dealerships offer competitive financing options through banks or financial institutions. It's advisable to compare interest rates, down payment options, and EMI structures to find the most affordable deal. Many brands also offer zero or low-interest EMIs on select models. Furthermore, some dealerships offer cashback and loyalty programs that can lower the overall cost.