If you are looking to purchase a car soon, the following list has been segregated into different budgetary classes for your convenience. Simply pick the model you desire. However, before buying, consider a car’s mileage, engine capacity, power and torque specifications, seating capacity according to the number of family members, safety features, and price point.

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 accidents, theft, traffic fines, and damage, thus safeguarding your investment.

What are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

1. Maruti Swift 2024 | Expected Launch Date: April 2024

The next-gen Swift hatchback has a similar silhouette but gets new sharper styling cues. The cabin layout is similar to what we’ve seen in the Fronx Baleno and Suzuki. Still, it comes packing a few ADAS features, including autonomous braking assist, automatic high beam assist, and more. 

Exact engine specs haven’t been revealed, but the ‘hybrid’ badge at the rear does confirm a hybrid powertrain. Although, India is likely to continue with its pure-petrol powertrain.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 1198 cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹  6 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG 
• Body type: Hatchback  
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

2. Kia Carnival 2024 | Expected Launch Date: April 2024

In India, Kia has stopped producing the Carnival 3-row MPV. The next-generation Kia Carnival is being examined for the Indian market after debuting at Auto Expo 2023. It has a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless phone charging, an eight-inch unit that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a high-end Bose surround sound system, and many more.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 2199cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹  40 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet Announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/ Diesel  
• Body type: MPV
• Airbags: 6 
• Safety features: ADAS, ABS with EBD, etc
• Seating Capacity: 7

3. Mahindra Thar 5-Door | Expected Launch Date: June 2024

The engines of the 5-door Thar will be identical to those of the 3-door model. The 5-door Thar will have more amenities than the 3-door Thar, including push-button start/stop, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a digital driver's display, dual-zone climate control with rear AC vents, and LED headlights and DRLs. 

It may be equipped with a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat anchors, ABS with EBD, and up to six airbags for passenger protection.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 2184cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 15 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet Announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel  
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet Announced 
• Safety features: Not Yet Announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

4. Skoda Kodiaq 2024 | Expected Launch Date: June 2024

Skoda's flagship SUV will have a 910-litre boot. It has features including an optional heads-up display, a 10-inch digital driver's display, a 13-inch touchscreen unit, and a second-row dual phone box that is cooled and capable of charging two cellphones at once at 15W. The Jeep Meridian, MG Gloster, and Toyota Fortuner will rival the second-generation Kodiaq.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 1984cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 40 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/ Diesel 
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5 & 7

5. Hyundai Alcazar 2024 | Expected Launch Date: June 2024

The Hyundai Alcazar comes with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, cruise control, an automated climate control system, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Among the extra features are a panoramic sunroof with voice activation, a twin camera setup for the dash cam, and ventilated front seats. 

It has six standard airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), hill-start assist control (HAC), ISOFIX child seat anchors, all-wheel disc brakes, and vehicle stability management (VSM), all of which improve passenger safety.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 1499cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 17 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel  
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: 6
• Seating Capacity: 7

6. Citroen Basalt Vision | Expected Launch Date: July 2024

Worldwide, Citroen has revealed the Basalt Vision. It is an SUV coupe based on the same basis as the C3 and C3 Aircross. Keyless entry, an all-digital driver's display, push-button start, automated climate control, a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and audio controls located on the steering wheel are among the features that the Citroen Basalt Vision may come with. 

Its safety equipment is also anticipated to include six airbags, ABS, ESP, and EBD as standard.  

Key Specifications:                                      

• Engine Capacity: 1998cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 7 lakh 
• Mileage: Not yet announced
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol  
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

7. Mahindra XUV500 | Expected Launch Date: July 2024

The second-generation XUV500 will reach the Indian markets by Q3 2024.

While not all of its features and specifications are public knowledge, some of the revealed information points to two variants - 2-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engine models. The car should also come with 6-speed gearbox options for both manual and automatic drive.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 2179cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 12 lakh
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel  
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced

8. Honda WR-V | Expected Launch Date: August 2024

The SUV RS concept inspires the new SUV's design, and it rides on the same chassis as the Amaze. Its current body style is more crossover-like than traditional SUV-like. 

An eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, steering-mounted audio controls, push-button start keyless entry, automatic climate control, and a multi-info display are among the features Honda has added to the 2019 WR-V. 

In terms of safety, it receives the City Hybrid's ADAS capabilities in addition to six airbags, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 1199cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹  8 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol  
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

9. Tata Curvv | Expected Launch Date: August 2024

The Tata Curvv includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof, which are possible interior highlights. Push-button start/stop, wireless phone charging, and ventilated seats are also anticipated. 

It will also come with six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat anchors, etc.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 1498cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 11 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/ Diesel 
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

10. Maruti XL5 | Expected Launch Date: September 2025

The eagerly awaited Maruti XL5 is about to transform the hatchback market in India. There is great excitement about Maruti Suzuki's affordable offering, which is expected to be outstanding. The XL5 is expected to offer the ideal balance of performance, style, and affordability.

Key Specifications:

•  Engine Capacity: 999cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 4.5 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/CNG  
• Body type: Hatchback  
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

11. Volkswagen Up | Expected Launch Date: Not Yet Announced

Even though limited information has been leaked on the upcoming Volkswagen vehicle, we can still understand what to expect.

However, knowing the manufacturer, this budget model will deliver excellent mileage and power specifications when launched in the Indian market. Its USP will likely remain the affordable price tag.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: Unknown
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹  4 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet Announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol  
• Body type: Hatchback  
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

12. Kia Xceed | Expected Launch Date: Not Yet Announced

The petrol-based, manual transmission Kia Xceed is another one of the best upcoming cars in India. It was introduced at the Auto Expo 2020. If the international models are any indication, this vehicle should launch in three distinct engine variants. The most affordable petroleum model can generate powers of up to 120PS, while the other two models can generate 140PS and 204PS, respectively.

Kia will also offer a diesel model to consumers whose power rating is limited to 115PS. The car should also sport a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Key Specifications:

• Engine Capacity: 1298cc
• Expected Ex-showroom Price: Starting ₹ 20 lakh
• Mileage: Not yet announced 
• Transmission: Manual/Automatic  
• Fuel type: Petrol/Diesel  
• Body type: SUV 
• Airbags: Not yet announced 
• Safety features: Not yet announced
• Seating Capacity: 5

The above-listed options are just some of the upcoming Indian cars set to make their mark in the automobile industry. You can look for more options to ensure that the vehicle you finally pick fulfills all your requirements.

While the present options in the market are impressive, the upcoming models are more likely to sport the latest technology and comfort specifications. Enjoy your shopping for the perfect car!

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