Best Cars in a budget – Affordable Today, Reliable for Years to Come….

Buying a car is not just a short-term decision—it’s an investment that should stand strong for the next 7–10 years. If you’re shopping with a budget under ₹10 lakhs, you’ll be surprised by the variety of options in 2025. From hatchbacks to micro SUVs and even CNG-powered vehicles, there are several cars that offer a low cost of ownership, reliable performance, and wide service support.

Here’s a full list of the best cars under ₹10 lakhs in India that you can confidently own for the long haul.

Also note that we have only mentioned those cars whose top models comes under the range of ₹10 lakhs 9ex-showroom). However Tata Altroz top model is going above the budget but as Altroz is the latest launched among all that’s why it should be considered.

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1. Maruti Suzuki Swift

• Price: ₹6.49 – ₹9.64 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG

• Mileage: 24.8 km/l, 32.58km/kg (CNG)

• Highlights:

  • Brand-new 3-cylinder Z-series engine

  • Updated design and comfort

  • Proven long-term reliability and low service costs

  • Maruti large dealership network

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2. Maruti Suzuki Baleno

• Price: ₹6.70 – ₹9.92 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG

• Mileage: 22.35 km/l (Petrol), 30.61 km/kg (CNG)

• Highlights:

  • Premium interior

  • Smooth AMT option

  • Excellent resale value and after-sales support

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3. Toyota Glanza

• Price: ₹6.90 – ₹10.00 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG

• Mileage: 22.35 km/l (Petrol), 30.61 km/kg (CNG)

• Highlights:

  • Toyota reliability with Maruti platform

  • Extended warranty options

  • Low maintenance + premium ownership experience

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4. Tata Punch 

We can avoid buying Tata Punch for now as we will soon be getting a updated version of the same during the festive season. But if safety is your priority and you can’t wait till then, you may consider buying the same.

• Price: ₹6.20 – ₹10.32 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG

• Mileage: 20.1 km/l, 24 km/kg(CNG)

• Highlights:

  • 5-star Global NCAP safety

  • Rugged micro-SUV stance

  • Durable build and improving Tata service network

 

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5. Hyundai Exter

• Price: ₹6.21 – ₹10.21 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG

• Mileage: 19.4km/l, 27.1 km/kg(CNG)

• Highlights:

  • Features like sunroof, digital cluster, 6 airbags

  • Excellent city usability

  • Low service cost, solid Hyundai reliability

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6. Tata Altroz – Best Car to pick

• Price: ₹6.89 – ₹11.49 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel / CNG

• Mileage: ~20–23 km/l

• Highlights:

  • Strong build with 5-star safety

  • Option for diesel engine (rare in segment)

  • Stylish interiors and practical boot

  • Have the best automatic gearbox in the segment i.e. DCT

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7. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

• Price: ₹5.98 – ₹8.62 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG

• Mileage: 17.5km/l, 27 km/kg(CNG)

• Highlights:

  • Compact yet premium

  • Ultra-smooth 1.2L engine

  • Reliable for urban commuting and long-term peace of mind

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8. Maruti Suzuki WagonR

• Price: ₹5.79 – ₹7.62 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG

• Mileage: 24.35 km/l, 34.05 km/kg(CNG)

• Highlights:

  • India’s most practical budget family car

  • Outstanding mileage, easy to drive

  • Extremely affordable to maintain

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9. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10

• Price: ₹4.23 – ₹6.21 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG

• Mileage: 24.39 km/l (Petrol), 33.4 km/kg (CNG)

• Highlights:

  • Ultra-low running cost

  • Ideal for first-time or city-centric users

  • Very low service costs and massive reach of service centres

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10. Maruti Suzuki Celerio

• Price: ₹5.64 – ₹7.37 lakh

• Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG

• Mileage: 25.24 km/l, 34.43 km/kg (CNG)

• Highlights:

  • Compact, efficient, and fuel-friendly

  • Good boot space

  • Long-term reliability with Maruti support

 

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Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose for Long-Term Ownership?

Here’s a quick breakdown based on specific long-term needs:

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Pro Tip for Buyers:

When looking for long-term ownership, consider extended warranty packages, maintenance plans, and CNG options (if running is high). Stick with brands that have wide service reach, and don’t skip regular servicing.

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Still unsure?
Drop your usage details (daily running, location, family size, fuel preference), and I’ll help you shortlist your ideal car with the best long-term value under ₹10 lakhs!

Also Read: Top Selling Cars in May 2025 in India