Top 10 Cheapest Cars in India 2025: Buying a new car under ₹6 lakh in 2025 isn’t as hard as it may seem, especially if you’re clear about your needs — whether it’s fuel efficiency, city comfort, or just the freedom of owning your first set of wheels. Manufacturers are still offering value-packed models in the budget hatchback and small car segments, even as prices keep climbing. If you’re in the market for an affordable car this year, here’s a closer look at the top 10 cars that are light on the wallet but not short on practicality.
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1. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 – ₹3.99 Lakh
Maruti Suzuki’s Alto K10 continues to lead the entry-level space. Priced under ₹4 lakh for the base version, it’s small in size but big on value. The 1.0-litre petrol motor feels punchy enough in city traffic, and the light steering adds to its urban usability. Buyers looking for low running costs can also opt for the CNG variant, which delivers impressive mileage. While it doesn’t come with luxury trimmings, the essentials — power windows, touchscreen in higher trims, and dual airbags — are present.
2. Renault Kwid – ₹4.70 Lakh
Renault’s Kwid stands out for offering SUV-inspired looks at hatchback prices. It’s been around for a while now, but Renault keeps it fresh with subtle updates. The Kwid’s high ground clearance and digital instrument cluster give it a unique appeal. You won’t get the most refined drive experience here, but for basic commuting and a hint of style, it hits the right notes. The 1.0-litre engine performs reasonably well, especially with the AMT gearbox for hassle-free driving.
3. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso – ₹4.26 Lakh
Then there’s the S-Presso — another Maruti product that splits opinion with its quirky design but wins on practicality. Its tall-boy stance offers good visibility, and the high seating makes ingress and egress easy, especially for elders. Inside, the cabin feels more usable than it looks from the outside, and like most Maruti cars, maintenance is cheap and predictable. Fuel efficiency is on par with the Alto, and a factory-fitted CNG kit is also available.
4. Bajaj Qute (RE60) – ₹3.61 Lakh
If you’re okay with thinking a little differently, the Bajaj Qute might interest you. Technically a quadricycle, the Qute is more of a city runabout than a proper car, but its affordability and low running cost make it a viable option for short-distance users. Powered by a tiny engine and available in CNG, it offers unbeatable efficiency, although comfort and space are bare minimum.
5. Maruti Suzuki Celerio – ₹5.37 Lakh
For buyers wanting something a bit more rounded, the Maruti Celerio fits in. It costs slightly more than the Alto or S-Presso but offers better cabin space, a more refined petrol engine, and a practical automatic option. The 2025 update gives it a cleaner dashboard and some convenience features that elevate the in-cabin experience. It’s not flashy, but it does everything well — a car that quietly gets the job done.
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6. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios – ₹5.92 Lakh
If interior quality and cabin silence matter to you, Hyundai’s Grand i10 Nios is hard to overlook. Even the base variants offer enough in terms of comfort, and the 1.2-litre engine is among the smoothest in the class. You won’t feel shortchanged even if you go for the lower trims, thanks to solid construction and Hyundai’s reputation for fuss-free ownership.
7. Tata Tiago – ₹5.60 Lakh
The Tata Tiago is another model that continues to impress buyers looking for strength and safety. Its design still looks fresh, and the cabin feels solidly put together. Unlike many other budget cars, the Tiago brings a certain level of confidence on the road, helped by its 4-star Global NCAP rating. Tata’s petrol engine may not be the most refined, but it’s reasonably efficient, and there’s a CNG option as well.
8. Maruti Suzuki Eeco – ₹5.32 Lakh
Maruti’s Eeco is a no-nonsense van that continues to sell in huge numbers, especially in semi-urban markets. It offers seating for up to seven people, huge boot space, and is often used for both commercial and personal needs. Though spartan in design, its running cost is among the lowest, especially if you opt for the CNG version. Not fancy, but functional to the core.
9. Datsun redi-GO (Discontinued, But Available in Stock) – ₹3.98 Lakh
While the Datsun redi-GO brand is no longer active, leftover stock is still available at some dealerships. If you find one, it’s a decent buy under ₹4 lakh, offering a digital speedo, high ground clearance, and enough room for two adults and a child in the back. Just make sure you’re comfortable with limited support for spares and after-sales going forward.
10. Citroen eC3 (Base Model, After Subsidies) – ₹6.50 Lakh (Effective Price)
And finally, if you’re willing to think electric, the base model of Citroen eC3 deserves a mention. Yes, it’s slightly above ₹6 lakh after subsidies, but the savings in fuel cost and its ease of use in city conditions may balance things out in the long term. The range is practical for daily use, and Citroen’s design gives it a modern vibe that few budget cars can match.
Final Words
Budget cars in 2025 may not have all the bells and whistles, but many of them now come with better safety, smarter packaging, and improved reliability. From seasoned brands like Maruti and Hyundai to newcomers in the EV space, buyers have no shortage of options. It’s still very possible to own a brand-new car in India without overspending — you just need to be clear about what matters most: space, mileage, or peace of mind.
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