In recent years, India’s automotive sector has witnessed significant growth with brands like Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, Mahindra, Mercedes, and Land Rover expanding their locally manufactured offerings. Whether you’re in search of a reliable hatchback like the Maruti Suzuki Swift, or a feature-packed SUV such as the Hyundai Creta, India offers a diverse range of options. Tata Motors contributes with the robust Nexon SUV, while Mahindra’s XUV500 stands out for its rugged capabilities. For those seeking luxury, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Land Rover Discovery Sport, both assembled in India, provide unmatched comfort and prestige. Maruti Suzuki Baleno and Hyundai i20 cater to the premium hatchback segment with their blend of efficiency and sophistication. Meanwhile, the Tata Harrier impresses with its bold design and powerful performance, and the Mahindra Thar remains an icon among off-road enthusiasts. This assortment reflects India’s evolving automotive landscape, combining affordability, innovation, and global quality standards in each offering.
1. Tata Tiago
From ₹5.60 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, setting a new standard for affordability and quality.
Looking for a safe, feature-rich family hatchback with impressive build quality and value for money? Check out the Tata Tiago, India’s most affordable Tata car, offering a comfortable cabin and three powertrain options: 1.2L petrol, 1.2L Bi-Fuel CNG, and all-electric Ziptron.
Among the most affordable hatchbacks in its segment, the Tata Tiago competes with rivals such as the Maruti Swift and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. It is available in five trim options: XE, XM, XT(O), XT, and XZ+.
Key Specifications of the Tata Tiago:
– Engine: 1.2L Revotron
– Maximum Power: 84.8 bhp (Petrol), 72.3 bhp (CNG)
– Peak Torque: 113 Nm (Petrol), 95 Nm (CNG)
– Transmission: 5-Speed Manual, 5-Speed AMT
– Fuel Efficiency: 20.01 km/l (Petrol MT), 19.43 km/l (Petrol AT); 26.49 km/kg (CNG)
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 35 liters (Petrol), 60 liters (CNG)
Key Features of the Tata Tiago:
– Projector Headlamps
– DIS Display (6.35 cm) with digital clock, gear shift display, trip meter, tachometer, distance to empty
– 17.78 cm Harman Infotainment System with 8-speaker audio system
– Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
– Cooled Glove Box
Special attraction:
– Excellent build quality and high GNCAP safety ratings
– Spacious and comfortable cabin
– Sorted dynamics for high-speed stability
2. Tata Nexon
Starting at ₹7.99 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, the Tata Tiago combines safety, comfort, and affordability in one impressive package.
The Tata Nexon sets the standard with its practicality and safety, challenging rivals like the Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV300, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza. Boasting a perfect five-star GNCAP rating, it excels in robust build quality and a comprehensive array of safety features, reaffirming its dominance in the market.
Impressive indeed! The Tata Nexon offers versatility with two powertrain options: a 1.2L Revotron turbo petrol and a 1.5L Revotorq diesel. The petrol engine delivers 118 bhp and 170 Nm of torque, while the diesel engine boasts 113 bhp and 260 Nm of torque. Both engines are available with either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. Additionally, the Nexon features an all-electric variant, which became India’s highest-selling electric car in 2023.
Key Specifications of the Tata Nexon:
– Engine: 1.2L Turbo Revotron (Petrol), 1.5L Turbo Revotorq Diesel
– Maximum Power: 118 bhp (Petrol), 113 bhp (Diesel)
– Peak Torque: 170 Nm (Petrol), 260 Nm (Diesel)
– Transmission: 5-Speed Manual, 5-Speed AMT
– Fuel Efficiency:
– Petrol MT: 17.33 km/l
– Petrol AT: 17.05 km/l
– Diesel MT: 23.22 km/l
– Diesel AT: 24.07 km/l
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 44 liters
Impressive Features of the Tata Nexon:
– Ventilated front seats and rear AC vents
– Floating 17.78cm Infotainment System with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
– Air purifier
– iRA Connected Car Tech with what3words navigation and navigation services
– Multi Drive modes: Eco, City, Sport
Special attraction:
Powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain options complement a comfortable, feature-rich cabin, underscored by robust build quality and a coveted 5-Star GNCAP safety rating.
3. Tata Harrier
Starting at ₹15.19 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, the Tata Nexon combines power, comfort, and top-tier safety in an impressive package.
Impressive indeed! Positioned as Tata’s flagship SUV, the Tata Harrier competes strongly against rivals like the MG Hector and Mahindra XUV700 in India, lauded for its bold styling. An upcoming facelift promises updated aesthetics, new features, and a refreshed dashboard.
Under the hood, the new Tata Harrier retains the 2.0L turbo diesel engine also found in SUVs like the Hector and Compass. It churns out 167 bhp and 350 Nm of torque, paired with a choice of a 6-speed manual or a Hyundai-sourced 6-speed AT gearbox.
Key Specifications of the Tata Harrier:
– Engine: 2.0L Kryotec Turbo Diesel
– Maximum Power: 167 bhp
– Peak Torque: 350 Nm
– Transmission: 6-Speed Manual (MT), 6-Speed Automatic (AT)
– Fuel Efficiency:
– Diesel MT: 16.35 km/l
– Diesel AT: 14.6 km/l
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 50 liters
Key Features of the Tata Harrier:
– Panoramic Sunroof
– Ventilated Seats and Electronic Parking Brake
– 26.03cm Harman Touchscreen Infotainment System with 9-speaker JBL system
– 17.78cm Digital Instrument Console
– IRA Connected Car Tech
Special attraction:
The Tata Harrier offers a premium, feature-rich cabin complemented by attractive, bold exterior styling, all backed by impressive performance and dynamics.
4. Mahindra XUV700
Starting at ₹14 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, the Tata Harrier blends premium features with bold styling and dynamic performance.
The Mahindra XUV700 has garnered significant attention as one of India’s most talked-about cars. Built on a new monocoque platform that’s 80 percent stiffer than its predecessor, the XUV700 is lighter and offers impressive dynamics and performance. It now features new, more powerful engine options and gearbox choices, enhancing its appeal further.
The new Mahindra XUV700 showcases a premium, upmarket cabin equipped with an extensive array of features. It includes a sophisticated all-digital 10.25-inch instrument console, powered front seats with memory function, a rotatory controller for the center screen, ADRENOX infotainment system, Sony 12-speaker surround sound system, Alexa voice assistant, and more. The XUV700 is available in both 5-seat and 7-seat configuration options, catering to diverse preferences and needs.
Key Specifications of the Mahindra XUV700:
– Engine: 2.0L TGDi Petrol, 2.2L CRDi Diesel
– Maximum Power: 197 bhp (Petrol), 152 bhp (Diesel), 182 bhp (Diesel)
– Peak Torque: 380 Nm (Petrol), 360 Nm (Diesel), 420 Nm (Diesel MT), 450 Nm (Diesel AT)
– Transmission: 6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 liters
Key Features:
– 10.25-inch fully digital instrument console
– ADRENOX Infotainment system
– Powered front seats with memory function
– Alexa voice assistant
– Panoramic sunroof
Special attraction:
The Mahindra XUV700 boasts a feature-rich, premium cabin that exudes luxury, complemented by its commanding road presence and power-packed performance.
5. Mahindra Scorpio N
Starting at ₹13.05 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, the Mahindra XUV700 combines a feature-rich, premium cabin with strong road presence and exhilarating performance.
The Mahindra Scorpio, a stalwart in the Indian market, has been revitalized with the new Scorpio N. This enhanced SUV not only delivers impressive reliability and strong performance but also offers increased practicality and comfort, making it a compelling choice in its segment.
The new Scorpio N stands out as one of India’s most affordable ladder-on-frame SUVs, featuring two robust powertrain options: a 2.0L TGDi petrol and a 2.2L CRDi diesel. The petrol variant comes exclusively with RWD, while the diesel is available in both RWD and AWD configurations. Offering both manual and automatic transmissions, the Scorpio N caters to those seeking a capable and versatile SUV.
Key Specifications of the Mahindra Scorpio N:
– Engine: 2.0L TGDi Petrol, 2.2L CRDi Diesel
– Maximum Power: 200 bhp (Petrol), 130 bhp (Diesel), 172 bhp (Diesel)
– Peak Torque: 370 Nm (Petrol AT), 380 Nm (Petrol MT), 300 Nm (Diesel MT), 370 Nm (Diesel MT), 400 Nm (Diesel AT)
– Transmission: 6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic
– Fuel Efficiency: 14.44 km/l (Diesel)
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 57 liters
Key Features:
– 6-way driver power adjust
– Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
– Wireless charging pad and Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
– AdrenoX and intelligent cockpit technology with 70+ connected car feature.
– 4XPLOR Terrain mode – Normal, Snow, Mud, or Sand.
Special attraction:
The Mahindra Scorpio N commands road presence with its muscular styling, offering a practical and feature-rich cabin atop a robust ladder-on-frame construction.
6. Mahindra Thar
Starting at ₹10.54 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, the Mahindra Scorpio N combines commanding road presence, a feature-rich cabin, and robust ladder-on-frame construction.
The Mahindra Thar, starting at ₹10.54 lakh ex-showroom in Delhi, stands as the most affordable 4X4 SUV in the country, celebrated for its muscular, boxy styling that commands a formidable road presence. The latest-gen model continues to raise the bar.
The Mahindra Thar offers versatility with two engine options: a 150 bhp, 2.0L TGDI turbo petrol and a 130 bhp, 2.2L CRDi mHawk diesel engine. Both engines feature a standard 4X4 drivetrain and are available with either manual or automatic transmissions. Additionally, there is a RWD variant of the Thar with a choice between a 1.5L CRDe diesel engine or the same 2.0L TDGi petrol engine.
Key Specifications of the Mahindra Thar:
– Engine: 2.0L TGDi Petrol, 1.5L CRDe Diesel, 2.2L CRDi Diesel
– Maximum Power: 150 bhp (Petrol), 117 bhp (Diesel), 130 bhp (Diesel)
– Peak Torque: 300 Nm (Petrol MT), 320 Nm (Petrol AT), 300 Nm (Diesel)
– Transmission: 6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic
– Fuel Efficiency: 15.2 km/l (Diesel)
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 57 liters
Key Features:
– 17.8 cm Touchscreen infotainment system
– Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
– 26.03 cm Harman Touchscreen infotainment system with 9-speaker JBL system
– BlueSense App Connectivity
– Remote Keyless Entry and Tool Kit Organiser
Special attraction:
The Mahindra Thar features capable and rugged 4X4 hardware, complemented by smooth and powerful engine options. Its handsome styling and strong character further enhance its appeal.
7. Maruti Suzuki Brezza
Absolutely, the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza has established itself as a highly sought-after compact SUV in India. Its popularity is underscored by the substantial waiting periods, often stretching up to 12 months, indicating strong demand from customers.
The current-generation model of the Brezza combines a smart and boxy exterior styling with a well-designed interior cabin. It’s known for providing a practical and feature-rich experience, catering to buyers who prioritize reliability, practicality, and comfort in their vehicles. The Brezza’s appeal lies in its blend of good looks, spaciousness, and a host of comfort features that enhance the overall driving and ownership experience.
The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza is powered by a 1.5-liter K15C petrol engine, which generates 101 bhp of power and 136 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with two gearbox options: a 5-speed manual transmission for those who prefer traditional shifting, and a 6-speed automatic transmission for smoother and more convenient driving experiences.
In addition to the petrol variant, Maruti Suzuki also offers a bi-fuel CNG version of the Brezza. This variant features the same 1.5-liter engine but is optimized to run on either petrol or compressed natural gas (CNG). It is exclusively available with a 5-speed manual gearbox, providing a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly option for customers looking to reduce running costs.
Overall, these engine and transmission choices ensure that the Vitara Brezza caters to a wide range of preferences, whether it’s about performance, fuel efficiency, or environmental impact.
Key Specifications:
– Engine: 1.5L K15C petrol engine
– Maximum Power:
– Petrol: 101 bhp @ 6000 rpm
– CNG: 87 bhp @ 6000 rpm
– Peak Torque:
– Petrol: 136 Nm @ 4400 rpm
– CNG: 121 Nm @ 4400 rpm
Transmission:
– Petrol: 5-speed manual transmission (MT), 6-speed automatic transmission (AT)
– CNG: 5-speed manual transmission (MT)
Fuel Efficiency:
– Petrol MT: 17.38 km/l
– Petrol AT: 19.80 km/l
– CNG: 25.51 km/kg
– Fuel Tank Capacity:
– Petrol: 48 liters
– CNG: 55 liters
Key Features:
– Heads Up Display (HUD)
– 360 Degree View Camera
– 22.86 cm SmartPlay Pro+ Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
– Electric Sunroof
– Push Button Start/Stop
Special attraction:
– Reliable and efficient powertrains, including a 1.5L petrol engine and bi-fuel CNG option.
– Dependable after-sales support through Maruti Suzuki’s extensive service network.
– Attractive exterior styling and robust build quality, blending style with durability seamlessly.
8. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is a compact and capable off-road SUV that has garnered significant attention in the Indian market. With a starting price of ₹12.74 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it offers robust off-road capabilities in a compact and stylish package.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny, renowned worldwide for its off-roading prowess, now comes in a five-door layout in India, despite its compact size and lightweight build. Its legendary capabilities and reliable mechanical setup make it suitable for tackling any terrain with ease.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny stands apart with its exclusive petrol engine option, a 1.5L K15B motor producing 103 bhp and 134 Nm torque. It offers a choice of a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. Despite not being the most economical choice, its off-road prowess makes it a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking a genuine 4X4 SUV experience.
Key Specifications:
– Engine: 1.5L K15B petrol engine
– Maximum Power: 103 bhp @ 6000 rpm
– Peak Torque: 134.2 Nm @ 4400 rpm
– Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission (MT), 6-speed automatic transmission (AT)
– Fuel Efficiency:
– Petrol MT: 16.94 km/l
– Petrol AT: 16.39 km/l
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 40 liters
Key Features:
– LED Headlamps with Washer
– Hill Descent Control, Hill Hold Assist, Brake Limited Slip Differential
– 7-inch SmartPlay Pro Infotainment System with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
– ARKAMYS surround sound system
– Push Button Start/Stop
Special attraction:
– Retro-modern styling that exudes attractiveness and premium appeal.
– Capable hardware designed for rugged terrain and adventurous drives.
– Extensive features and comprehensive safety equipment, ensuring a balanced blend of style, functionality, and safety.
9. Hyundai Verna
The Hyundai Verna starts at ₹10.96 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), offering accessible pricing for its blend of retro-modern styling, capable hardware, and extensive features.
The Hyundai Verna stands out in the sedan segment with its comprehensive package:
– It competes with rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and Honda City, offering a feature-rich and powerful option under Rs 20 lakh.
– The latest generation enhances the seating experience, improves powertrain options, and expands the features list, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking comfort, style, and performance in India.
The new Hyundai Verna offers impressive engine choices:
– An all-new 147 bhp, 1.5L TGDi turbo petrol engine alongside a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine.
– Both engines deliver strong performance while maintaining smoothness and refinement.
– Buyers have the option of manual or automatic transmissions, enhancing flexibility and driving comfort across the range.
Key Specifications:
– Engine Options:
– 1.5L naturally aspirated MPi petrol engine
– Maximum Power: 113 bhp
– Peak Torque: 143.8 Nm
– 1.5L TGDi turbo petrol engine
– Maximum Power: 157 bhp
– Peak Torque: 253 Nm
– Transmission Options:
– 6-speed manual transmission (MT)
– Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
– 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
– Fuel Efficiency:
– NA Petrol MT: 18.60 km/l
– NA Petrol IVT: 19.60 km/l
– TGDi Petrol MT: 20 km/l
– TGDi Petrol AT: 20.60 km/l
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 liters
Key Features:
– Front seat ventilation and heating
– Smart Trunk
– 10.25-inch Infotainment system with navigation, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay
– Ambient Sounds Of Nature
– Home To Car Connectivity with Alexa
Special attraction:
– An all-rounder with a premium and spacious cabin.
– Backed by dependable after-sales support and up to 7 years of extended warranty, ensuring peace of mind for buyers.
10. Volkswagen Virtus
The Hyundai Verna starts at ₹11.47 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), offering a compelling combination of a premium and spacious cabin, along with dependable after-sales support and extended warranty options.
The Volkswagen Virtus stands out with:
– Powerful and refined engine options that enhance performance.
– Elegant and timeless styling that appeals to discerning buyers.
– A comfortable and feature-rich cabin, positioning it strongly against competitors like the Hyundai Verna, Maruti Ciaz, and Honda City in the sedan segment.
Developed under Volkswagen’s India 2.0 strategy, the new Virtus is built on the MQB A0 IN platform tailored for India. It’s celebrated as the first car in India to achieve a five-star safety rating in GNCAP tests under updated protocols. The sedan offers a choice between a base 1.0L TSI engine and a more potent 1.5L TSI engine in higher variants, catering to varied performance preferences.
Key Specifications:
– Engine Options:
– 1.0L TSI petrol engine
– Maximum Power: 114 bhp
– Peak Torque: 178 Nm
– 1.5L TSI petrol engine
– Maximum Power: 147 bhp
– Peak Torque: 250 Nm
– Transmission Options:
– 6-speed manual transmission (MT)
– 6-speed automatic transmission (AT)
– 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DSG)
– Fuel Efficiency:
– 1.0L TSI MT: 20.08 km/l
– 1.0L TSI AT: 18.45 km/l
– 1.5L TSI MT: 18.88 km/l
– 1.5L TSI AT: 19.62 km/l
– Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 liters
Key Features:
– Full LED headlamps with LED DRLs
– Electric Sunroof
– Ventilated Front Seats
– MyVolkswagen Connect
– 25.65 cm infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Special attraction:
– Lucrative performance and sorted dynamics, offering a refined driving experience.
– Elegant styling and solid build quality, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.
– A practical, feature-rich, and comfortable cabin, enhancing overall convenience and driving pleasure.
