Engines of a displacement 1000cc were once considered significant only for mid-size and luxury cars. However, the automobile industry has successfully broken this myth with a technological breakthrough. Today, 1000cc motors are used in SUVs and smaller cars such as hatchbacks and sedans.

So, if you plan on buying a new car, the task can give you a tough road ahead. Therefore, continue reading about the top 15 1000cc cars in India to make the best purchase.

Also, remember to opt for a car insurance policy when buying your vehicle. It is mandatory as per the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 and can provide financial coverage for traffic fines, damage, accidents and theft. 

The cars in the 1000cc category boast improved efficiency and power output, resulting in the same mileage as a smaller-displacement engine with greater power.

Below is the list of India's most preferred 1000cc cars, ex-showroom prices, and key features.

1. Maruti Alto K10 | Starting ₹3.99 Lakhs

The Alto K10 is a compact and practical hatchback that is great for city driving and families. It has a fuel-efficient 1.0L petrol engine with both manual and automatic transmissions.

Its small dimensions can weave into the tightest spots on roads and have enough room inside for four passengers to ride in comfort. The Alto K10 combines convenience and performance with great mileage along with a 7-inch infotainment system as its contemporary class-leading feature.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting at ₹3.99 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 998 cc
• Maximum Power: 65.71 bhp @ 5500 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 89 Nm @ 3400 rpm
• Mileage: 24.39 to 24.9 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Transmission: Manual and AGS Automatic
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Body Type: Hatchback
• Airbags: Dual front airbags standard
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a high-speed alert system.

2. Maruti S-Presso | Starting ₹4.26 Lakhs

The Maruti S-Presso is available in petrol and a CNG engine variant and has automatic and manual transmission options. The car has a small footprint and a 4.5-metre turn radius, making it easily navigable on congested roads.

Moreover, it has safety features like rear parking sensors, anti-lock braking system, driver and passenger side airbags, seat belt warning, engine immobiliser, etc., ensuring a safe driving experience.     

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹4.26 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 998cc
• Mileage: 24.12 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 4
• Maximum Power: 55.92bhp@5300rpm
• Maximum Torque: 82.1Nm@3400rpm
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Body type: Hatchback
• Airbags: 2

3. Renault Kwid | Starting ₹4.70 Lakhs

The Renault Kwid is a compact hatchback with an SUV-like stance and excellent ground clearance. It has a single 1.0L natural aspirated petrol engine option and is available in manual and automated manual transmission (AMT) variants.

Regarding its features, the Renault Kwid has three drive modes: a multi-functioning steering wheel, adjustable front seats, rear parking sensors, manual climate control, and much more. Additionally, the car has two airbags, ABS, traction control, TPMS, hill assist, seatbelt warning, etc., thus providing a safe driving experience.   

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹4.70 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 999cc
• Maximum Power: 67.06bhp@5500rpm
• Maximum Torque: 91Nm@4250rpm
• Mileage: 22.3 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: Hatchback
• Airbags: 2

4. Maruti Wagon R | Starting ₹5.54 Lakhs

The Maruti Wagon R comes with two petrol engines to choose from; manual and automatic. It's an affordable hatchback in terms of buying and running costs, offering decent mileage as well.

A 7-inch SmartPlay Studio infotainment setup with smartphone connectivity, steering-mounted controls, a spacious interior, and ample boot space is also part of the bargain in the Maruti Wagon R.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting at ₹5.54 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 1.0L - 998cc; 1.2L - 1197cc
• Maximum Power: 1.0L - 66 bhp @ 5500 rpm; 1.2L - 89 bhp @ 6000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 1.0L - 89 Nm @ 3500 rpm; 1.2L - 113 Nm @ 4400 rpm
• Mileage: 23.56 to 25.19 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual and AGS Automatic
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Body Type: Hatchback
• Airbags: Dual front airbags standard
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a high-speed alert system.

5. Nissan Magnite | Starting ₹5.99 Lakhs

Nissan Magnite is a compact SUV created for the modern generation. It offers a 1.0-litre petrol engine in naturally aspirated and Turbo options, matched with a 5-speed manual or CVT automatic gearbox. It’s efficient both for city and highway drives with great mileage and a 40-litre fuel tank.

The roomy cabin of this car can accommodate five persons, and a ground clearance of 205 mm guarantees versatility on terrains. 

Other available features include an 8.0-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, digital instruments, and advanced safety gear like Vehicle Dynamic Control and Hill Start Assist.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting at ₹5.99 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 999 cc
• Maximum Power: 71 bhp @ 6250 rpm (naturally aspirated); 99 bhp @ 5000 rpm (turbocharged)
• Maximum Torque: 96 Nm @ 3500-3600 rpm (naturally aspirated); 152 Nm @ 2200-4400 rpm (turbocharged)
• Mileage: 17.9kmpl - 19.9kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual and CVT Automatic
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Body Type: SUV
• Airbags: Dual front airbags are standard; higher variants offer side and curtain airbags
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Start Assist.

6. Renault Kiger | Starting ₹6 Lakhs

The Renault Kiger can be an excellent choice if you are looking for a highly fuel-efficient sub-4m SUV. This car offers two petrol engine options - 1.0L natural aspirated petrol and 1.0L turbo petrol - in automatic and manual transmission variants.

It has a 40-litre fuel tank and a 730 km driving range. Additionally, the car has a 2,500 mm wheelbase and 205 mm ground clearance, making it suitable for both highway rides and off-roading.    

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹6 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 999cc
• Maximum Power: 98.63bhp@5000rpm
• Maximum Torque: 152Nm@2200-4400rpm
• Mileage: 18.24 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: SUV
• Airbags: 4

7 Maruti Swift | Starting ₹6.49 Lakhs

 The Maruti Swift might be the right option for you if you are looking for a stylish yet powerful car. The India-spec Swift features a 1.2-litre petrol engine that delivers 82 PS of power and up to 112 Nm of torque. The Swift is packed with the following features:  a 9-inch touchscreen, automatic AC, wireless phone charging, a 6-speaker ARKAMYS audio system, cruise control, and connected car tech.

 Regarding safety, the new Swift has rear parking sensors, an electronic stability program (ESP), a rear parking camera, and ISOFIX child seat anchorages. It comes in six monotone and three dual-tone colour options and has five variants: LXi, VXi, VXi (O), ZXi, and ZXi+.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price:  Starting ₹6.49 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 25.75 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 4
• Maximum Power: 80.46bhp@5700rpm
• Maximum Torque: 111.7Nm@4300rpm
• Transmission: Manual/ Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: Hatchback
• Airbags: 6

8. Maruti Suzuki Fronx | Starting ₹7.51 Lakhs

The Fronx from Maruti Suzuki is a compact SUV that combines modern design, performance, and practicality. It also comes with two petrol powerplants (one, a smooth 1.2L, the other a feisty 1.0L turbo, paired to a manual, AMT, or an automatic gearbox.

With its fuel-effective drive and spacious insides, the Fronx is a perfect pick for both city runs and long drives.

Important highlights of the feature list include a Head-Up Display, 360 View Camera, wireless smartphone charger, and a 9-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting at ₹7.51 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 1.2L - 1197 cc; 1.0L Turbo - 998 cc
• Maximum Power: 1.2L - 89 bhp @ 6000 rpm; 1.0L Turbo - 99 bhp @ 5500 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 1.2L - 113 Nm @ 4400 rpm; 1.0L Turbo - 147.6 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm
• Mileage: 20.01kmpl - 22.89kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual, AMT, and Automatic
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Body Type: SUV
• Airbags: Dual front airbags are standard; higher variants offer up to 6 airbags
• Safety Features: Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), Hill Hold Assist, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors.

9. Skoda Kylaq | Starting ₹7.89 Lakhs

The Kylaq for the Indian market comes with a 1.0-litre TSI petrol unit that puts out 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque, with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission options.

This car is built to tackle both urban streets and off-road adventures, featuring a 45-litre fuel tank, 189 mm ground clearance, and a 2,566 mm wheelbase.

Adding to its appeal, the SUV offers segment-first six-way electrically adjustable ventilated front seats for unmatched comfort and a class-leading 446-litre boot space, ensuring practicality for all your journeys.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting at ₹7.89 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 999 cc
• Maximum Power: 114 bhp @ 5000-5500 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 178 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm
• Mileage: 15 to 18 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual and Automatic
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Body Type: SUV
• Airbags: 6 (standard across all variants)
• Safety Features: Over 25 standard safety features, including Multi-Collision Brake, Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, and Electronic Differential Lock.

10. Kia Sonet 2024 | Starting ₹7.99 Lakhs

Kia Sonet is the South Korean automobile manufacturer’s entry-level offering. It is available in 3 petrol engines (998cc, 1197cc and 1199cc) and one diesel engine (1493cc) options, along with both manual and automatic transmission variants.

With a 45-litre fuel tank capacity, 205 mm ground clearance and a 2,445 mm wheelbase, the Kia Sonet can be your perfect partner for city and off-road trips. Moreover, this SUV has features like electric adjustable front seats, ABS, automatic climate control, cruise control, etc., to facilitate a comfortable driving experience.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹7.99 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 998cc
• Maximum Power: 118bhp@6000rpm
• Maximum Torque: 172Nm@1500-4000rpm
• Mileage: 17 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol/ Diesel
• Body type: SUV
• Airbags: 6

11. Hyundai i20 N Line | Starting ₹9.99 Lakhs

If you are looking for a hatchback, especially for daily commuting, the Hyundai i20 N Line can be a smart choice. Due to its compact size, this car offers easy manoeuvrability, which can help you effortlessly navigate congested Indian streets.     

The Hyundai i20 N Line has a single petrol engine option available in both automatic and manual transmission systems. It has three drive modes that allow you to tweak the vehicle’s performance to suit your needs.    

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹9.99 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 998cc 
• Maximum Power: 118.41bhp@6000rpm
• Maximum Torque: 172Nm@1500-4000rpm
• Mileage: 20.2 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic/ Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: Hatchback
• Airbags: 6

12. Skoda Slavia | Starting ₹10.69 Lakhs

The Skoda Slavia has two petrol engine variants (999cc and 1498cc) and manual and automatic transmission options. Coming to features, this car has rear parking sensors, automatic climate control, power windows in the front and rear, an accessory power outlet and much more.

Furthermore, it sports safety features like driver and passenger side airbags, anti-lock braking system, front fog lights, etc., making it suitable for use on both city streets and highways.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹10.69 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 999cc
• Maximum Power: 113.98bhp@5000-5500rpm
• Maximum Torque: 178Nm@1750-4500rpm
• Mileage: 18.41 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: Sedan
• Airbags: 6

13. Skoda Kushaq | Starting ₹10.89 Lakhs

Skoda Kushaq is an entry-level SUV offered by the Czech automobile manufacturer. It comes in 2 petrol engine options (999cc and 1498cc) and is available in automatic and manual transmission systems.

The 999cc version of this SUV has a 3-cylinder 1.0 TSI petrol engine and a top speed of 170 kmph. It also has 188 mm unladen ground clearance, a 2782 mm wheelbase, and 16-inch wheels that allow it to go off-road quickly.       

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹10.89 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 999cc
• Mileage: 18.09 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Maximum Power: 113.98bhp@5000-5500rpm
• Maximum Torque: 178Nm@1750-4500rpm
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: SUV
• Airbags: 6

14. Volkswagen Virtus | Starting ₹11.56 Lakhs

The Volkswagen Virtus embodies the essence of German engineering, delivering everything a modern and stylish premium sedan should offer. With two petrol engine options, it ensures a smooth and efficient driving experience.

Offering impressive mileage (18.12–20.8 kmpl), a spacious 521-litre boot, and comfortable seating for five, it excels as both a city and long-distance cruiser.

Features like a ten-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, and a comprehensive safety package with up to six airbags enhance its appeal. The Virtus seamlessly combines practicality, comfort, and style, proving they can coexist effortlessly.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹11.56 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 1.0L - 999 cc; 1.5L - 1,498 cc
• Maximum Power: 1.0L - 115 bhp @ 5,000-5,500 rpm; 1.5L - 150 bhp @ 5,000-6,000 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 1.0L - 178 Nm @ 1,750-4,500 rpm; 1.5L - 250 Nm @ 1,600-3,500 rpm
• Mileage: 18.12kmpl - 20.8kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual, Automatic, and DSG
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Body Type: Sedan
• Airbags: Up to 6 airbags, including dual front and side airbags
• Safety Features: Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Hold Control, Multi-Collision Brakes, Park Distance Control, and a rear-view camera.

15. Hyundai Venue N Line | Starting ₹12.08 Lakhs

If you want a stylish and compact SUV that you can use both on and off-road, the Hyundai Venue N Line can be an intelligent choice. It has a powerful Kappa 1.0 l turbo GDi engine that produces a top speed of 165 kmph.

Moreover, this car has both manual and automatic transmission variants. It has numerous safety features like six airbags, ABS, day & night rearview mirror, TPMS, front and rear disc brakes and more.    

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹12.08 Lakhs
• Engine Displacement: 998cc
• Mileage: 18 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Maximum Power: 118.41bhp@6000rpm
• Maximum Torque: 172Nm@1500-4000rpm
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: SUV
• Airbags: 6

Car buyers can take this list of 10 best 1000cc cars in India into account to bring home an affordable yet powerful model with the latest design and advanced tech. Further, one must also assess other features of these cars to ensure that they lay their hands on the best one.

Additionally, please remember to buy at least a third-party car insurance policy to ensure that you get financial coverage for damages done by your vehicle to third parties in case of unfortunate accidents.