India's 1200cc automobile category is the most diverse segment, courtesy of the affordable price range and fuel efficiency. However, several vehicle manufacturers have a high collection in the merchandise range, including hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs.

Also, it is crucial to know that having car insurance is mandatory if you plan to buy a car in India, as per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. It offers financial protection against hefty traffic fines, accidents, theft, and damage, thus safeguarding your investment.

So, if you plan to purchase a new car, it can be daunting. Therefore, continue reading about India's top 1200cc cars in 2024 to make the best purchase.

1. Tata Nexon | Starting ₹8.15 Lakhs

The Tata Nexon is a fashionable and feature-packed SUV model which is known for its robust structure and remarkable safety standards. It is available in both petrol and diesel engine options, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and performance while hitting the road. 

It also comes with features like Android Auto, touchscreen infotainment, and Apple CarPlay. This car is available in several colour choices - Fearless Purple, Creative Ocean, Pristine White, Daytona Grey, Foliage Green, Pure Grey, Flame Red, etc. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1497 cc
• Mileage: 17-24 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic/Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel/Electricity 
• Body type: SUV
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: Seatbelt reminders, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), central locking ISOFIX anchorages, reverse parking sensors, etc.  

2. Kia Sonet | Starting ₹7.99 Lakhs

In 2020, Kia introduced the Sonet, a potent 1,200cc subcompact SUV, to the Indian market. It comes in petrol, diesel, and CNG versions and is based on the Kia Seltos SUV. For those searching for a chic and feature-rich subcompact SUV, the Kia Sonet is a fantastic option. It provides a decent mix of comfort, fuel efficiency, and performance. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Mileage: 18-24 kmpl 
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic/Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Body type: Sport Utility Vehicle
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: ABS with EBD, airbags, tyre press monitor, impact-sensing door locks, six airbags, speed-sensing auto door 

3. Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor | Starting ₹7.74 Lakhs

The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor symbolises versatility and superiority. Its stylish design and flawless performance ensure its perfection for urban adventurers. Power-driven by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, it delivers a smooth driving experience at great fuel efficiency. 

The car takes pride in its cutting-edge safety features, such as ABS with EBD, dual airbags, hill hold control, etc., ensuring a secure ride. It also has a spacious interior equipped with many advanced features like a SmartPlay infotainment system. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 20.01-28.51 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Body type: Crossover
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: Airbags, ABS, Hill Assist, Brake Assist, Child Safety Lock, Automatic Headlamps.

4. Hyundai Venue | Starting ₹7.68 Lakhs

The Hyundai Venue is a desirable alternative for consumers on a tight budget since it provides an attractive option in the compact SUV market. It offers outstanding value for money thanks to its affordable pricing. Desirable amenities include a touchscreen infotainment system, power-adjustable external rear-view mirrors, and more.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹7.68 Lakhs
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Mileage: 20.1 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic/Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Body type: Sport Utility Vehicle
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: Reverse Parking Distance Warning(PDW), Rear View Monitor (RVM), airbag system, Safety power window, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

5. Maruti Suzuki Fronx | Starting ₹7.51 Lakhs

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is an outstanding SUV model designed to navigate cities seamlessly, providing a smooth driving experience. Its aerodynamic shape and design enhance its performance on the road. 

Equipped with a robust, peppy 1.2-litre petrol engine, the car provides flawless performance while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. The car also comes with state-of-the-art features like ISOFIX child seat mounts, ABS with EBD rear parking sensors, etc. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 20 kmpl to 23 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic/Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel
• Body type: Sport Utility Vehicle
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: Vehicle Lock, Overspeed Alert, Headlamp Alert, Speeding Alert, Battery Status, Remote Operations.

6. Hyundai i20 | Starting ₹7.04 Lakhs

The Hyundai i20, with its unique features and characteristics, is undoubtedly one of the greatest 1,200cc automobiles available in India. It has a powerful 1.2-litre Kappa Dual VTVT petrol engine under the hood. Its CVT, 5- and 6-speed Manual, 6-speed iMT, and 7-speed DCT Automatic transmissions provide a seamless and exciting driving experience. 

Key Specifications

• Ex-showroom price: ₹7.04 Lakhs
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Mileage: 19.65 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Automatic/Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: Hatchback
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: ABS, Traction Control, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC), Parking Collision-avoidance Assist - Reverse (PCA-R) 

7. Honda Amaze | Starting ₹6.43 Lakhs

The facelift Honda Amaze has undergone cosmetic tweaks and feature enhancements. Among them are auto LED projector headlamps, 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen system, and LED fog and tail lamps. Amaze has a dual-tone interior with silver highlights on the steering wheel, dashboard and door pads.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹6.43 Lakhs
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Mileage: 24.7 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual 
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: Sedan
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: Traction Control, Child Lock, Airbags, ABS, Central Locking, Automatic Headlamps, etc. 

8. Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Starting ₹6.35 Lakhs

The BS6 Baleno feels significantly more pliant on unpaved road conditions with additional features and extensive redesign. It is packed with state-of-the-art specifications such as UV cut glass, follow-me headlamps, reverse parking camera, tilt and telescopic steering, etc. Further, motorists looking for 1200 cc automatic cars in India can consider this model from the house of Maruti.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: Starting ₹6.35 Lakhs
• Engine displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 22.5 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body type: Sedan
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: ISOFIX Anchorages, Child Lock, 360-degree camera, Auto-Dimming Rear-View Mirror, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), etc. 

9. Maruti Dzire | Starting ₹6.09 Lakhs

Thanks to its intricate design and advanced features, the next-gen Dzire is a significant step up compared to its predecessors. Numerous features are included with the Dzire, including a 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ABS and EBD, air conditioning with automatic climate control, and rear air vents. There are manual and automatic transmission options for the Dzire.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹6.09 Lakhs
• Engine displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 24.12 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG
• Body type: Sedan
• Airbags: 2
• Safety features: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Central Locking, Child Safety Lock, EBA (Electronic Brake Assist), Engine Immobiliser, ESP (Electronic Stability Program)

10. Tata Punch | Starting ₹6.13 Lakhs

The Tata Punch is a compact SUV known for its extraordinary performance, elegance, and versatility. Powered by a responsive 1.2-litre petrol engine, the car delivers a dynamic driving experience with high fuel efficiency. 

It also has impressive safety features like dual airbags, electronic stability control, and rear parking sensors. The car has a spacious cabin with cutting-edge features and a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration. 

Key Specifications:

• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Mileage: 18.8 kmpl to 26.99 kmpl
• Seating capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG/Electricity
• Body type: Sport Utility Vehicle
• Airbags: 6
• Safety features: Anti Lock Braking System, Driver Airbag, Passenger Airbag, Traction Control, Auto-Dimming Rear-View Mirror, TPMS, etc. 

Thus, various choices are available among the top 1,200cc automobiles in India to meet the requirements of all drivers. The Maruti Dzire and Hyundai Aura are excellent sedan options for individuals looking for value and mileage. SUV fans who want performance and economy could choose between the Hyundai Venue and the Tata Nexon. 

Also, obtaining at least third-party car insurance coverage is advisable to ensure financial security in case of any unforeseen catastrophe.