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 ₹3.99 lakh

Maruti Suzuki is one of the most popular brands when it comes to the cheapest cars in India. Its new Alto K10 range receives a complete design overhaul in its interior and exterior parts. 

The latest car tech design involves a 7.0-inch SmartPlay Studio infotainment system for rider entertainment. 

Moreover, it comes with a 1.0-litre Dual-Jet petrol unit producing 67 BHP and 89 Nm of peak torque, which ensures a smooth riding experience. 

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹3.99 - ₹5.83 lakhs*
• 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

Another Maruti offering in this list of the most affordable cars in India, the S-Presso, is fitted with the K10B petroleum engine, which sports an MPFi fuel injection system and 3 cylinders.

Furthermore, the car features manual and automatic transmission systems, although the former variant can cost you marginally more. Peak power and torque ratings are 67 BHP and 90 Nm, respectively.

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 from ₹4.50 lakh

One of the smallest cars on the list, the Strom Motors R3 is an electronic vehicle (EV) that has one of the lowest running costs out of most cars on this list. It can travel up to 200 kilometres with only 3 hours of charge. However, it can only accommodate 2 people in the vehicle. 

Despite its size, the Strom R3 has a decently large storage volume and can hold up to 300 litres in its boot. Ever-increasing prices in the automobile industry make cars like this a perfect addition for people who want something budget-friendly but don't want to skip out on comfort.

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 from ₹4.69 lakh

Renault set foot in the affordable automobile market with their 2015 subcompact car, the Renault KWID. It is a comfortable family car that blends effortless luxury with affordability. Its 184 mm ground clearance allows it to be used as a city car with ease. 

One of the most common cars on urban Indian streets, the Renault KWID has 1.0 SCe engine and electric steering to give top-notch comfort and pleasure while driving. 

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 boasts of a sustainable micro-car with the launch of the PMV EaS E. The car was launched as a sustainable option in a market that is oversaturated with automobiles that are not environmentally conscious. Its compact size, affordability, and fuel efficiency. 

The 170 mm ground clearance and the highly effective PMSM motor make it stand out from other e-vehicles on the market. 

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

The Maruti Alto has been around since 2000 and is well-loved for its affordability and performance. The New Alto 800 Tour H1 boasts power steering, ABS, and power front windows for the comfort and convenience of the buyer.

The reverse parking sensors help you to park the car easily in unfamiliar places. The maximum power of 49 KW @ 5500 rpm, along with 214 litre boot capacity makes this car perfect for both the city and the suburbs. 

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 ₹4.99 lakh

One of the perfect cars for city use, the Maruti Celerio is compact, well-designed, and affordable for small families. With a Gen K-series engine, spacious cabin space, and steering-mounted controls, the car is contemporary and dynamic. 

The Maruti Celerio has a maximum torque of 89 Nm @ 3500 rpm which enhances the smooth and powerful performance of the engine. The kerb weight of 820 kg and gross vehicle weight of 1260 kg makes the Celerio easy to handle and maneuver on Indian roads. 

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

One of the most versatile and popular cars on this list, the Maruti Suzuki Eeco is one of a kind. It can be used both as a goods carrier and as a passenger vehicle. With a wagon-style body and large cargo volume, it is perfect for larger families or small corporations.

The K12N engine and 2350 mm wheelbase make it an efficient car for easy transportation. Eeco also comes equipped with side impact beams, sun visors on both sides and a 12-volt accessory socket.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹5.32 - ₹6.58 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 from ₹5.49 lakh

Designed to stand out, the Maruti Suzuki Ignis is one of the most economical hatchbacks on the Indian automobile market with SUV-like features. The luxurious cabin space is contrasted with a tough exterior to attract attention on urban roads.

The smart-touch display allows you to play music, take calls, and access the steering-mounted controls easily. The VVT engine and 5 speed AMT gearbox ensures extraordinary performance for your off-road adventures and city commune.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom Price: ₹5.49 - ₹8.06 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 from ₹5.54 lakh

If you are looking for a family car in India’s cheapest car range, Maruti Wagon R can be the best choice. It is a fuel-efficient car with configured seats which look after rider comfort. 

Additionally, it comes with a petrol engine, producing a maximum of 113Nm of torque. 

Moreover, riders can enjoy features and facilities like vehicle dynamic control, intelligent wiper system, 7-inch touchscreen display, steering-mounted audio and phone controls, digital clock, and power windows front and rear. 

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹5.54 - ₹7.42 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 from ₹5.60 lakh

You cannot go wrong if your choice for a budget-friendly vehicle is the Tata Tiago.

One of the most popular hatchbacks in India since its launch, the Tata Tiago is equipped with a 3-cylinder, 5-speed, manual engine. Variants include petroleum and CNG models.

You can expect maximum power and torque of around 72 bhp and 95 Nm, respectively.

Key Specifications:

• Ex-showroom price: ₹5.60 - ₹8.20 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

Hyundai offers an affordable and comfortable vehicle in this budget segment in the form of the Grand i10 Nios.

You can choose between a petroleum, diesel or a CNG variant, as per your preference. The 1.2 kappa petrol engine sports 4 cylinders. Its maximum torque output is 113.8 Nm, while peak power is limited to 81.80 bhp.

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.

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.