Introduction
Buying your first car is a big milestone. In 2026, the Indian automobile market offers several budget friendly cars in India that combine affordability, mileage, safety, and modern features, all under ₹10 lakhs.
Whether you’re looking for the best family car in India under 10 lakhs, a fuel-efficient daily commuter, or a stylish hatchback, there are plenty of options available.
Let’s explore the best cars under 10 lakhs in India this year.
Quick Comparison: Best Cars Under ₹10 Lakhs in India (2026)
| Car Model | Price Range (Ex-showroom) | Mileage | Segment | Best For |
| Maruti Suzuki Swift | ₹6–9.5 lakh | 22–25 km/l | Hatchback | Daily city use |
| Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | ₹5.8–8.8 lakh | 20–26 km/l | Hatchback | Stylish urban driving |
| Tata Punch | ₹6–9.8 lakh | 20 km/l | Micro SUV | Safety & ground clearance |
| Maruti Baleno | ₹6.6–9.9 lakh | 22–30 km/l | Premium Hatchback | Comfort & mileage |
| Hyundai Exter | ₹6–9.7 lakh | 19–27 km/l | Micro SUV | Compact family SUV |
| Tata Altroz | ₹6.5–9.9 lakh | 19–26 km/l | Hatchback | Safety & build quality |
| Renault Kiger | ₹6.5–9.9 lakh | 19–21 km/l | Compact SUV | SUV feel under budget |
| Maruti Fronx (Base variants) | ₹7.5–9.9 lakh | 21–22 km/l | Compact SUV | Stylish crossover |
Prices are approximate and may vary by city.
How to Choose a Car Under ₹10 Lakhs
Before finalising your car, consider these factors:
1. Purpose of Usage
Is it mainly city commuting, highway driving, or family travel?
2. Mileage
If fuel efficiency is your priority, choose from the best mileage cars available in hatchback segments.
3. Safety Rating
Look for airbags, ABS, ESC, and Global NCAP ratings.
4. Maintenance Cost
Budget-friendly cars should also have affordable servicing.
5. Resale Value
Brands like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai generally have strong resale demand.
Choosing wisely ensures your purchase stays economical in the long run.
Top 8 Best Cars Under ₹10 Lakhs in India 2026
Below is a consistent breakdown of each car.
1. Maruti Suzuki Swift
Price Range: ₹6–9.5 lakh
Mileage: 22–25 km/l
Engine: 1.2L petrol
Why Consider It?
The Swift remains one of the most popular hatchbacks in India. It offers excellent mileage, low maintenance cost, and strong resale value.
Best For: Daily commuters and small families.
2. Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
Price Range: ₹5.8–8.8 lakh
Mileage: 20–26 km/l
Why Consider It?
Stylish design, premium interiors, and feature-loaded variants make it ideal for urban drivers.
Best For: Young professionals and city use.
3. Tata Punch
Price Range: ₹6–9.8 lakh
Mileage: ~20 km/l
Why Consider It?
Strong build quality with good safety ratings. Offers SUV-like stance under ₹10 lakhs.
Best For: Buyers prioritising safety and higher ground clearance.
4. Maruti Baleno
Price Range: ₹6.6–9.9 lakh
Mileage: 22–30 km/l
Why Consider It?
Spacious interiors, great mileage, and smooth driving experience.
Best For: Families seeking comfort and fuel efficiency.
5. Hyundai Exter
Price Range: ₹6–9.7 lakh
Mileage: 19–27 km/l
Why Consider It?
Compact SUV styling with smart features like dashcam and digital cluster.
Best For: Budget SUV lovers.
6. Tata Altroz
Price Range: ₹6.5–9.9 lakh
Mileage: 19–26 km/l
Why Consider It?
Solid build, premium feel, and strong safety features.
Best For: Safety-conscious buyers.
7. Renault Kiger
Price Range: ₹6.5–9.9 lakh
Mileage: 19–21 km/l
Why Consider It?
Compact SUV with bold styling and spacious cabin.
Best For: SUV feel on a budget.
8. Maruti Fronx (Base Variants)
Price Range: ₹7.5–9.9 lakh
Mileage: 21–22 km/l
Why Consider It?
Modern crossover design with Maruti reliability.
Best For: Buyers seeking style and efficiency together.
Financing Your Car: Smart Options in 2026
Buying a car under ₹10 lakhs still requires upfront planning, down payment, insurance, registration, and accessories can increase total cost.
Many buyers now explore financing options like:
- Calculate your car loan EMI to understand monthly affordability
- Instant personal loan for down payment
- Flexible EMI options
If you are short on initial funds, you can get instant loans online for down payments through digital lending platforms. This helps avoid delaying your purchase.
Using a quick loan app can help bridge short-term funding gaps if you need immediate liquidity.
With digital platforms like FatakPay, you can apply for an instant personal loan online to manage initial car expenses without delaying your purchase.
Conclusion
India’s 2026 car market offers multiple best cars under 10 lakhs, catering to families, daily commuters, and first-time buyers.
From mileage-focused hatchbacks to stylish compact SUVs, there’s something for everyone within this budget.
The key is balancing:
- Budget
- Safety
- Fuel efficiency
- Maintenance cost
- Financing options
If planned wisely, owning a car under ₹10 lakhs can be both affordable and practical.
FAQs
1. Which is the best family car in India under 10 lakhs?
Maruti Baleno and Tata Punch are popular choices for small families due to space and safety.
2. Which car gives the best mileage under ₹10 lakhs?
Maruti Baleno and Swift offer some of the best mileage figures in this segment.
3. Can I take a personal loan to buy a car?
Yes, many buyers use an instant personal loan for down payment or additional costs.
4. Is it better to take a car loan or personal loan?
Car loans generally have lower interest rates, but personal loans offer flexibility.
5. Are SUVs available under ₹10 lakhs?
Yes, Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter, Renault Kiger, and base variants of Fronx fall in this category.