
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Maruti S-Presso is India's cheapest car
- Alto k10 is the most affordable car in India with 6-airbags as standard
- Tata Tiago is the safest option in the list
After the GST 2.0 rollout, the automotive sector is in a state of euphoria, especially with the festive season now underway. Vehicle sales are projected to hit their peak this financial year. For those planning to buy a new small car, here's some great news - the most affordable car in India now starts at just Rs 3.50 lakh, with several other options also falling under the Rs 5 lakh bracket. This article dives into all those choices. Let's get started, and meanwhile, don't forget to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Channel to stay updated with the latest automotive news.
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Maruti S-Presso

This is the entry-level Maruti car known for its spacious cabin and an high-seating stance. Post GST rate revision, S-Presso starting price has become Rss 3.50 lakh (ex-showroom), and its top-variant which is equipped with AMT gearbox cost Rs 5.24 lakh (ex-showroom). For an entry-level car its a great option as it comes with electrically adjustable ORVMs, 7 inch infotainment screen, dual airbags, and power-windows.
Maruti Alto K10

The Alto K10 is the second option on the list and costs just Rs 20,000 more than the S-Presso. The extra money is well worth it, as it offers 6 airbags as standard, a dedicated digital speedometer, and an infotainment screen. Mechanically, it is quite similar to the S-Presso, but the added safety makes it the better choice. It comes with the same 1.0L engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox, along with a CNG option. Prices for the Alto K10 start at Rs 3.69 lakh, while the top variant goes up to Rs 5.44 lakh (ex-showroom).
Maruti Celerio

This is premium version of both these above cars, and packs several segment first features. It looks cool, wide and sporty, although the engine is same - a 1.0L 3-cylinder engine with 68.5 PS, and 91.1 Nm of torque. Celerio too have, 6 airbags, 7-inch infotainment, but it has a analog instrument cluster which looks far-better than those digital ones. Segment first feature is the auto-start-stop which you won't see in other small cars. The Celerio starts at Rs 4.69 lakh and the top variant cost Rs 6.72 lakh (ex-showroom).
Renault Kwid

Finally, a non-Maruti car makes it to the list - the Renault Kwid. Priced from Rs 4.29 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kwid recently celebrated 10 years of sales in India, and to mark the occasion, Renault introduced a special 10th Anniversary Edition in limited numbers. What makes the Kwid stand out is its SUV-inspired design, impressive 184 mm ground clearance, 16 standard safety features, and a practical 279-litre boot. Another big plus is that even the AMT variants are priced within the Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom) bracket.
Tata Tiago

The Tiago is truly a gem in this list, being a Tata product that's literally built like a tank. Only its base variant falls under the Rs 5 lakh mark, but those who own one cant stop praising it. Powering the Tiago is a 1.2L 3-cylinder petrol engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or an AMT. What makes it unique is that even the CNG version can be had with an AMT - a feature offered only by Tata. Prices start at Rs 4.57 lakh (ex-showroom), while the top variant goes up to Rs 6.76 lakh (ex-showroom).
Maruti Wagon-R

The WagonR has remained a favourite among the masses for the last 20 years, and it continues to hold that position even today. It has so much to offer, and more than that, it has become a name in itself. The car comes with several features and three powertrain options - a 1.0L petrol, a 1.0L petrol with CNG, and a 1.2L 4-cylinder K-Series engine. In addition, it offers 6 airbags, hill-hold assist, power windows, a spacious 335-litre boot, and ample headroom thanks to its tall design. Prices start at Rs 4.98 lakh (ex-showroom), while the top variant costs Rs 6.83 lakh.
Verdict
So, these are the 6 cars you can buy starting under Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom), with the list being largely dominated by Maruti Suzuki, India's largest carmaker. Among them, the Alto K10 makes the most sense, as it offers a well-rounded package under Rs 5 lakh - 6 airbags, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a reliable CNG option. The others either miss out on key features or stretch the budget further.