India’s car market under ₹10 lakh is thriving, offering a rich selection of hatchbacks, SUVs, sedans, and compact MPVs that deliver exceptional value. Whether you’re seeking fuel efficiency, interior comfort, safety, or smart features, here are 7 top budget cars under Rs. 10 lakh in India (2025), each offering unique strengths within that price.
Maruti Suzuki Swift
One of the most popular hatchbacks under ₹10 lakh, the Swift remains a favorite for its lively engine, peppy performance, and strong fuel economy (up to ~24 km/l). Priced from approximately ₹6.49 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers excellent resale value, low maintenance costs, and a fun-to-drive character for urban roads. Its compact footprint masks a surprisingly spacious cabin for this segment.
Tata Nexon
The Nexon is a feature-rich SUV with safety accolades, including a 5-star Global NCAP rating. Available between ₹8.00–9.80 lakh for petrol/diesel variants, it delivers around 17 km/l mileage. Its bold styling, comfortable ride, and good build quality make it ideal for city driving and occasional highway travel. It also offers CNG variants in the sub-₹10 lakh range, making it worthy of serious consideration.
Mahindra XUV 3XO
Recently launched in 2025, the XUV 3XO is Mahindra’s value-packed sub‑4‑metre compact SUV. Priced from ₹7.99 lakh, the XUV 3XO brings SUV-like styling, a comfortable ride, and advanced technology such as safety systems and infotainment features, all within budget range. Mileage ratings hover around 18 km/l for petrol and diesel options.
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
A spacious MPV, the Ertiga offers seating for up to 7 passengers and practicality for family outings. With prices starting around ₹9.12 lakh (ex-showroom in Delhi), it is the most affordable MPV in its class. The Ertiga’s efficiency (~20 km/l), low maintenance costs, and strong after-sales network make it a standout choice in the budget MPV segment.
Renault Triber (Facelift 2025)
The Triber is a modular 5/7‑seater MPV that has received a well-rounded facelift for 2025. It now starts from ₹6.29 lakh (Authentic variant) and ranges up to around ₹9.16 lakh for the top Emotion AMT trim. The refreshed Triber offers modern styling, a smarter interior, improved safety with 6 airbags, wireless charging, cruise control, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay—making it one of the most compelling budget‑friendly 7‑seaters on the market.
Hyundai Aura
A premium compact sedan, the Hyundai Aura brings refined styling, a comfortable cabin, and a feature-loaded experience. Prices begin at around ₹6.54 lakh and top out below ₹10 lakh for mid-variants, including the recently launched S AMT variant priced at around ₹8.08 lakh—making automatic transmission widely accessible in this range. Fuel efficiency ranges between 20–25 km/l depending on engine and variant.
Tata Altroz (Facelift 2025)
The 2025 facelift of the Tata Altroz rolls out at an entry price of ₹6.89 lakh, bringing updated styling, safety features, and improved cabin tech. It’s Tata’s premium hatchback designed to compete with rivals like the Baleno and i20. With diesel, petrol, and CNG options and a strong crash‑safety rating (4‑star), Altroz stands out in this segment for overall quality and features.
🔍 Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Starting Ex‑showroom Price | Type | Seating | Mileage (km/l) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Swift | ₹6.49 lakh | Hatchback | 5 | ~24 | Fun driving, fuel efficient, reliable |
| Tata Nexon | ₹8.00 lakh | SUV | 5 | ~17 | 5-star safety, robust build |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | ₹7.99 lakh | SUV | 5 | ~18 | Feature-rich compact SUV |
| Maruti Ertiga | ₹9.12 lakh | MPV | 6–7 | ~20 | Spacious, reliable, family‑friendly |
| Renault Triber Facelift | ₹6.29 lakh | MPV | 5/7 | ~20 | Most affordable 7‑seater, new tech |
| Hyundai Aura | ₹6.54 lakh | Sedan | 5 | ~22 | Automatic variant available, refined |
| Tata Altroz (facelift) | ₹6.89 lakh | Hatchback | 5 | ~20‑22 | Stylish, safe, multiple fuel options |
🚗 Choosing the Right One: What to Focus On?
Fuel Efficiency
If mileage is a key concern, the Swift, Aurora/Aura, Baleno (if considered), and Altroz offer exceptional numbers in petrol (20 km/l and above). CNG and diesel trims in Nexon and Triber further boost economy.
Space & Utility
For families or groups of 6–7, Renault Triber and Maruti Ertiga are standout MPVs. Triber’s modular seating is ideal for urban parking and boot flexibility.
Safety Features
Nexon, Altroz, and XUV 3XO lead with strong crash‑test ratings and safety aides like airbags and stability control. Triber now includes 6 airbags in select trims, too.
Automatic Transmission
The Hyundai Aura’s S AMT variant (around ₹8.08 lakh) and Triber’s AMT trims provide smooth shifting without stretching the budget too far.
Feature Package
The facelifted Triber surprises with modern upgrades even at the base level. Altroz brings premium hatch aesthetics, while XUV 3XO offers SUV styling, connectivity, and ADAS options in some trims.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Each of these seven cars brings a compelling combination of value, efficiency, space, or style, especially for buyers on a strict ₹10 lakh budget. Here are quick takeaways:
- Best for mileage & daily drive: Maruti Swift, Tata Altroz
- Best SUV feel & safety: Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO
- Most spacious yet affordable 7‑seater: Renault Triber
- Best for family trips with sedan comfort: Hyundai Aura
- Overall roomy and practical MPV: Maruti Ertiga
India’s auto market has evolved massively—and even with limited budgets, cars now compete on safety, tech, and efficiency. Before making a decision, consider factors like service network, resale value, insurance, and long‑term cost. Also, don’t forget to test‑drive multiple options to see what suits your driving needs and lifestyle best.