Buying a new car is always an exciting milestone, especially when you’re on a budget and still want the best features, design, and performance. Fortunately, the Indian car market in 2025 is buzzing with fantastic options that deliver excellent value without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a first-time car buyer, upgrading from a hatchback, or just looking for a reliable second car for the family – there are plenty of cars under ₹10 lakh that check all the right boxes: safety, mileage, space, features, and that feel-good driving experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 best cars you can buy under ₹10 lakh in India – carefully curated based on performance, practicality, safety, and popularity among Indian buyers.
1. Maruti Suzuki Baleno – The Premium Hatchback Champion
- Price Range: ₹6.66 – ₹9.88 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Mileage: 22.3 – 22.9 km/l
Why it stands out: Baleno has been India’s go-to premium hatchback for years – and for good reason. It offers smooth driving, premium interiors, and top-notch fuel efficiency.
Human tip: If you’re looking for a stylish car with spacious interiors and great mileage for city drives, Baleno is a no-brainer.
2. Tata Punch – Mini SUV with Maximum Impact
- Price Range: ₹6.59 – ₹9.98 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Mileage: 18.8 – 26.9 km/kg (CNG)
Why it rocks: Tata Punch gives you SUV-like road presence with hatchback convenience. It’s fun to drive, safe (5-star GNCAP rating), and looks bold.
Human tip: Want a compact car that handles potholes and rough roads like a boss? Punch is punchy enough for both city and rural roads.
3. Hyundai Exter – Feature-Packed, Futuristic Compact SUV
- Price Range: ₹6.70 – ₹10 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Mileage: 19.4 km/l (Petrol) | 27.1 km/kg (CNG)
Why it’s trending: With features like a voice-enabled sunroof, 6 airbags, and segment-first safety tech, Exter is an absolute value bomb in 2025.
Human tip: Ideal for young buyers who want a futuristic, gadget-friendly driving experience with solid mileage.
4. Maruti Suzuki Swift 2024 – India’s Favorite Hatch is Back
- Price Range: ₹6.49 – ₹9.90 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Mileage: 24.8 km/l (Petrol)
Why it’s loved: The 2024 Swift refresh brings a new look, hybrid tech, and even better mileage. It’s still the same fun-to-drive car, just smarter now.
Human tip: Need a peppy hatchback with timeless style and modern features? Swift 2024 won’t disappoint.
5. Renault Kiger – Turbo Power on a Budget
- Price Range: ₹6.99 – ₹9.95 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Mileage: 18.2 – 20.5 km/l
Why it impresses: Kiger gives you turbo engine options, a bold SUV stance, and a spacious boot, all within your budget.
Human tip: If you love long drives and occasionally enjoy that turbocharged thrill, the Kiger is surprisingly sporty for its price.
6. Tata Tiago – Small Size, Big Personality
- Price Range: ₹6.00 – ₹8.50 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Mileage: 19 km/l (Petrol) | 26.5 km/kg (CNG)
Why it’s practical: Tata Tiago remains a favorite for small families and first-time car buyers. It’s affordable, solidly built, and comes with modern safety features.
Human tip: If you’re buying your very first car and want something stylish, safe, and CNG-friendly, Tiago is a reliable pick.
7. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios – Comfort Meets Class
- Price Range: ₹6.70 – ₹9.75 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Mileage: 20.7 – 27 km/kg
Why people love it: This hatchback has always been known for its refinement, interior quality, and smooth drive. It’s great for city commutes and occasional highways.
Human tip: Want a “mini i20” experience without crossing ₹10 lakh? The Grand i10 Nios delivers style and substance in one neat package.
8. Citroën C3 – European Design, Indian Budget
- Price Range: ₹6.75 – ₹9.90 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Mileage: 19.3 – 20.5 km/l
Why it’s different: The C3 brings quirky design, good cabin space, and punchy performance, making it a fresh alternative to common picks.
Human tip: If you want to stand out on the road and like the idea of owning a car that’s not too mainstream, C3 is worth a test drive.
9. Maruti Suzuki WagonR – Tall Boy, Big Savings
- Price Range: ₹6.25 – ₹8.95 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Mileage: 24.3 km/l (Petrol) | 34.05 km/kg (CNG)
Why it works: The WagonR’s practical design makes it ideal for city traffic and tight parking. It’s spacious, efficient, and wallet-friendly.
Human tip: If you’re a city dweller with family and want maximum headroom, comfort, and mileage, the WagonR keeps things simple and smart.
10. Maruti Suzuki Dzire – Sedan Luxury on a Hatchback Budget
- Price Range: ₹6.89 – ₹9.98 lakh (on-road)
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Mileage: 22.6 – 23.2 km/l
Why it’s classy: Dzire is one of the few sedans that still make sense in 2025, thanks to its roomy cabin, huge boot, and excellent mileage.
Human tip: If you prefer a sedan over hatchbacks and want something ideal for long drives with family, Dzire offers comfort and economy in style.
How to Choose the Right Car Under ₹10 Lakh?
Choosing the perfect car is more than just looking at price tags. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Purpose of Use
- Daily office commute? A hatchback or CNG car like WagonR or Tiago.
- Highway drives? Consider Dzire or Kiger.
- Family travel? Go for Punch or Exter.
2. Fuel Efficiency
- Prefer petrol if you drive under 40 km/day.
- Consider CNG if you’re clocking more than 60 km/day.
- Electric? Only if you have charging access at home.
3. Features That Matter to You
- Safety: Look for ABS, airbags, rear camera.
- Convenience: Automatic transmission (AMT or CVT) is now available under ₹10L in many models.
- Tech: Want wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay? Exter and Grand i10 Nios lead here.