Budget tends to be a constraint for many when choosing the perfect car to fit their requirements. However, India has quite a diverse market when it comes to automobiles, with dependable and quality vehicles available aplenty – whose costs do not necessitate digging a hole in your pockets.

If you are currently looking for the best budget cars in India, you have stumbled onto the right place! Here, we list the most popular pocket-friendly vehicles currently available in the Indian market. So, if you think you can’t afford a car at present, think again!

When buying a car in India, securing car insurance is also crucial as it is mandatory by the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. It provides financial protection against accidents, theft, and damage, safeguarding your investment.

Having car insurance saves you from hefty traffic fines, licence suspension, and even legal trouble. 

There is no dearth of affordable cars in India. However, you should also prioritise performance, handling and comfort when choosing your vehicle.

Keeping this in mind, here are the top 13 cheapest cars in India that you can purchase with a budget of under Rs.6 lakh, with superior performance guaranteed. 

1. Bajaj Qute RE60 | Starting ₹3.61 lakh

Termed as India’s first auto taxi, the Bajaj Qute RE60 is one of the most compact cars on the market. It can easily move through crowds and traffic making it a perfect vehicle for metropolitan cities. 

The Bajaj Qute was launched on 3rd January 2012 however, it could not be classified as a car. The car is the company’s first step into the four-wheeler market. One of its top benefits is its low carbon dioxide emission.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹3.61 lakh*
• Engine Displacement: 216 cc
• Mileage: 35 - 43 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 4 
• Transmission: Manual
• Fuel Type: DTSi/CNG
• Body Type: Quadricycle 
• Airbags: No 
• Safety Features: Child safety locks, all-weather model, mechanical rear parking brakes, and impact sensing auto door lock.

2. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 | Starting ₹4.23 lakh

Maruti Suzuki remains a top choice for budget-friendly cars in India, and the new Alto K10 has joined the list. 

Equipped with a 7-inch SmartPlay Studio Infotainment system, it enhances the driving experience with modern features. It is also empowered by a 1.0-litre Dual-Jet petrol engine, which delivers 67 BHP and 89Nm of peak torque, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride. 

The base model costs just 4.23 Lakhs, while the top variant costs Rs 6.21 Lakh. Depending on your requirements, you can choose from 8 variants of Alto K10. 

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹4.23 - ₹6.21 lakh
• Engine displacement: 998 cc 
• Mileage: 24.39 - 24.9 kmpl 
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG 
  
• Body type: Hatchback 
• Airbags: 2  
• Safety features: Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and a driver-side airbag standard in some variants of the Alto K10 

3. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso | Starting ₹4.26 lakh

Maruti Suzuki’s S-Presso, inspired by the coffee name, is designed for Indian roads with its high ground clearance and compact SUV-like design. 

It packs a K10B petrol engine with MPFi fuel injection, delivering 67 BHP and 90 Nm torque. Available in both manual and automatic transmissions, it offers a budget-friendly yet stylish and practical driving experience. 

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹4.26 - ₹6.12 lakh*
  
• Engine displacement: 998 cc 
• Mileage: 24.12 - 25.3 kmpl 
  
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
  
• Fuel type: CNG/Petrol 
• Body type: Hatchback 
  
• Airbags: 2 
• Safety features: Reverse parking sensors, dual front airbags, and ABS with EBD.  

4. Strom Motors R3 | Starting ₹4.50 lakh

The Storm Motors R3 is one of the tiniest electric vehicles available, and it has the lowest possible running cost. A 3-hour charge can make it travel up to 200 kilometers, thus making it an efficient option for city driving. 

Even though it can accommodate only two passengers, it has a surprisingly spacious 300-litre boot available for storage.

In a time of high car prices, the Storm R3 is economical but quite comfortable. It comes with too many advanced features, such as keyless entry, power windows, a digital driver's display, a 7-inch infotainment touch screen, voice and gesture control, climate control, and GPS navigation.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹4.50 lakh
• Engine Displacement: 20.11 bhp
• Mileage: 200 km per charge 
• Seating Capacity: 2 
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel Type: Electric
• Body Type: Hatchback
• Airbags: No
• Safety Features: Three-point safety belt system, assisted parking systems, keyless entry.

5. Renault KWID | Starting ₹4.69 lakh

The Renault Kwid was launched in 2015. With a good ground clearance of 184 mm, this car is highly suited for driving in the city, where it can easily move around on urban roads.

It moves with a powerful 1.0 SCe engine, complemented by electric steering, so you enjoy a smooth, good-quality ride on the Kwid. The price for the base model starts at Rs. 4.69 Lakh, while the top variant goes up to Rs. 6.45 Lakh (average ex-showroom). 

Key Specifications:

Ex-showroom Price: ₹4.69 - ₹6.45 lakh* 

Engine Displacement: 999 cc

Mileage: 21 - 22 kmpl 

Seating Capacity: 5 

Transmission: Automatic

Fuel Type: Petrol

Body Type: Hatchback 

Airbags: 2

Safety Features: Airbags (driver and front passenger), reverse parking camera with safety grids, child lock, speed warning, seat belt sensors.

6. PMV EaS E | Starting from ₹4.79 lakh

PMV Electric has unveiled the EaS-E as India's most affordable electric car, and it has already received several global bookings. This tiny microcar is designed like a compactor and means to act as a benevolent answer within the consumer domain crowded mostly with conventional automobiles.

The car is available in three ranges—120 km, 160 km, and 200 km—and can achieve a maximum speed of 70 kmph. The EaS-E's 170 mm ground clearance and well-balanced proportions would be perfect for city drives, giving it the trifecta of affordability, practicality, and sustainability.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹4.79 lakh* 
• Engine Displacement: 13.41 bhp 
• Mileage: 120 kms / full charge
• Seating Capacity: 2 
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel Type: Electric 
• Body Type: Hatchback 
• Airbags: 1 
• Safety Features: One airbag, seat belts, assisted parking, cruise control, rearview camera.

7. Maruti Suzuki Alto Tour H1 | Starting from ₹4.80 lakh

Since its launch in 2000, the Maruti Alto has been a hit due to its price and reliability. The new Alto 800 Tour H1 makes travel more comfortable and convenient with power steering, ABS, and power front windows.

Made for urban and suburban commutes, it is equipped with a 49 KW @ 5500 rpm engine and a 214-litre boot space. Moreover, reverse parking sensors allow easy steering in confined places, enhancing its functionality and convenience.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹4.80 lakh*
• Engine Displacement: 998 cc
• Mileage: 24.60 kmpl 
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission: Manual
• Fuel Type: Petrol and CNG
• Body Type: Hatchback 
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: Engine mobilizer, front airbags, seat belt warnings, parking sensors.

8. Maruti Celerio | Starting ₹5.64 lakh

The Maruti Celerio is a perfect choice for small families. It comes in eight different models, with the base model being the LXI and the top variation being the ZXI Plus AMT. Its price ranges from ₹5.64 Lakh to ₹7.37 Lakh.  

 With a maximum torque of 89 Nm at 3500 rpm, the Gen K-series engine that powers the Celerio provides a pleasant driving experience.  With a total vehicle weight of 1260 kg and a kerb weight of 820 kg, its lightweight design guarantees effortless handling on Indian roads.  It is a useful daily vehicle that combines comfort and contemporary amenities.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹4.99 -  ₹7.04 lakh*
• Engine Displacement: 998 cc 
• Mileage: 26 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5 
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG 
• Body Type: Hatchback 
• Airbags: 2 
• Safety Features: Seat belt reminders, ABS with EBD, pedestrian protection, immobiliser, child-safe rear door locks. 

9. Maruti Suzuki Eeco | Starting ₹5.32 lakh

The Maruti Suzuki Eeco is notable for its ability to function as a passenger car and a cargo transport.  Its roomy wagon-style design, which provides plenty of cargo capacity for convenient transportation, makes it perfect for small enterprises and large families. 

 Thanks to its K12N engine and 2350 mm wheelbase, the Eeco guarantees economy and steadiness on the road. For extra convenience, it also has a 12-volt auxiliary plug, side impact beams, and sun visors on both sides. 

The base model is the 5-seater STD, while the highest variation is the 5-seater AC CNG. The Eeco is priced between ₹5.44 Lakh and ₹6.70 Lakh.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹5.44 - ₹6.70 lakh
• Engine Displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 19.71 kmpl 
• Seating Capacity: 5 to 7 people, based on the variant
• Transmission: Manual
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG 
• Body Type: Wagon
• Airbags: 2 
• Safety Features: Child safety locks, speed alert system, engine immobilizer, seat belt warning, and EBD.

10. Maruti Suzuki Ignis | Starting ₹5.85 lakh

The Maruti Suzuki Ignis is a fashionable but affordable hatchback that combines urban appearance with SUV-like toughness.  It stands out on city highways because to its striking external design and roomy, cosy interior.  

 The Ignis's VVT engine and 5-speed AMT gearbox provide outstanding performance for both off-road excursions and city driving. The steering-mounted controls and smart-touch display increase convenience, making it simple to access music and calls while driving.  

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹5.85 - ₹8.26 lakh
• Engine Displacement: 1197 cc
• Mileage: 20.89 kmpl
• Seating Capacity: 5 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic
• Fuel Type: Petrol/Diesel 
• Body Type: Hatchback 
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: ABS, child safety locks, anti-theft alarm, ESC, EBD, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. 

11. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R | Starting ₹5.65 lakh

The Maruti Wagon R is a strong option for anybody looking for an economical and useful family vehicle. It prioritises rider comfort while providing a smooth driving experience, and it is well-known for its fuel efficiency and well-built seats.  

 The Wagon R's petrol engine produces a maximum torque of 113 Nm, guaranteeing dependable operation. 

 A 7-inch touchscreen, phone and music controls integrated into the steering wheel, an intelligent wiper system, a digital clock, and power windows for both front and back passengers are just a few of the many contemporary conveniences that are included.  

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹5.65 - ₹8.50 lakh
• Engine displacement: 998 cc to 1197 cc 
  
• Mileage: 23.56 - 25.19 kmpl 
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Fuel type: CNG/Petrol 
  
• Body type: Hatchback 
• Airbags: 2 
• Safety features: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and hill-hold assist (only on AMT variants)

12. Tata Tiago | Starting ₹5.00 lakh

The Tata Tiago is an excellent option if you're searching for a reasonably priced hatchback with strong performance and safety.  It stands out as one of the safest vehicles in its class because of its remarkable four-star safety certification.  

 The Tiago is a fashionable yet useful commuter because of its contemporary style and strong road presence.  Its lightweight controls, good visibility, and small size make it easy to manoeuvre in urban traffic.  

 The Tiago comes in gasoline and compressed natural gas (CNG) versions and is powered by a 3-cylinder, 5-speed manual engine.  With a maximum output of 72 horsepower and 95 Nm of torque, it provides a steady ride with a well-balanced combination of comfort and performance.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹5.00 - ₹8.45 lakh
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc 
• Mileage: 19 kmpl 
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Fuel type: CNG/Petrol 
  
• Body type: Hatchback 
• Airbags: 2 
• Safety features: Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and cornering stability control.

13. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | Starting from ₹5.84 lakh

In the low-cost market, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios is a well-rounded option that balances comfort, price, and contemporary amenities.  

 It has a four-cylinder 1.2L Kappa petrol engine and is offered in petrol, diesel, and CNG versions.  This configuration ensures dynamic and captivating driving with a maximum torque of 113.8 Nm and a peak power of 81.80 bhp.  

 The Grand i10 Nios is renowned for its exceptional build quality and exceptional comfort. 

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹5.84 - ₹8.51 lakh*
  
• Engine displacement: 998 cc to 1197 cc 
• Mileage: 19 kmpl 
  
• Seating capacity: 5 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
  
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel/CNG 
• Body type: Hatchback 
  
• Airbags: 4-6 
• Safety features: 6 airbags as standard, ABS with EBD, hill assist, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

14. Renault Triber | Starting ₹6.10 lakh

The Renault Triber is an affordable and useful six-seater MPV with a price range of ₹6.10 to ₹8.98 lakh. With a 999 cc engine and either an automatic or manual gearbox, it provides adaptability. With four airbags and a 4-star NCAP certification, safety is a top priority. 

The Triber, with a ground clearance of 182 mm and a fuel economy of 18.2 to 19 km/l, is available in 10 different colors. It offers outstanding value by combining cost and usefulness.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹6.10 - ₹8.23 lakh
• Engine displacement: 999 cc
• Mileage: 19 kmpl 
• Seating capacity: 7 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Fuel type: Petrol

15. Tata Punch | Starting ₹6.20 lakh

Tata's Punch stands out as a powerful little SUV that combines outstanding safety with tough looks. It prioritises passenger protection and has earned a five-star safety rating. Notwithstanding its small size, the Punch has a surprisingly roomy interior and modern technologies that increase its usefulness. 

 This family-friendly SUV has a noticeable road presence because of its attractive design and comfortable ride, which guarantees that passengers will enjoy their time in it.  

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹6.20 - ₹10.32 lakh
• Engine displacement: 1199 cc
• Mileage: 14 to 18 kmpl 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic 
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Power: 87 bhp @ 6000 rpm
• Torque: 115Nm @ 3250rpm

These are just the top 13 cheapest cars in India. You can consider countless others from various manufacturers within this budget.

However, keep in mind that the list above only considers the ex-showroom price in New Delhi. Therefore, exact prices may vary based on your city. 

Nevertheless, the budget should not constrain your car purchase any longer. With such a diverse range of vehicles present, there is absolutely no shortage of options.

Also, it is advisable to protect your car with a third-party car insurance policy, as it is mandated by law. It will cover any damage or losses your vehicle could cause to a third-party person or property in any unforeseen mishap.

Disclaimer: The information and prices mentioned here are for a specific city and vehicle model sourced from official car company websites and reputable aggregators. They may change as per time. Please verify the details with the respective car manufacturers or authorised dealers before you buy a vehicle.

This information is added only for informative purposes, and Digit Insurance is not promoting or recommending any specific vehicle or brand in any way.