There are many aspects to be considered when one is planning to buy a brand-new car. While consumer preferences are shifting from hatchbacks to SUVs, there’s still considerable demand for affordable, entry-level cars. One does have the option to buy a used, second-hand car. But the experience of a brand-new car is far more satisfying. If you have a limited budget, here are some of the best cars you can buy under Rs 5 lakh.
Maruti Alto
One of the most affordable cars in India, Maruti Alto is available at a starting price of Rs 3.54 lakh (ex-sh, Delhi). Alto’s compact profile makes it suitable for urban commutes. Some of the key highlights include elegant headlights, prominent front grille and body-colored ORVMs.
On the inside, Maruti Alto has dual-tone interiors, dual-tone dashboard and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Alto gets power from a 796cc engine that churns out 48 PS of max power and 69 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Maruti Alto K10
Folks looking for a more dynamic profile for their car and improved performance can choose Maruti Alto K10. It is available at a starting price of Rs 3.99 lakh. Some of the key highlights include a youthful honeycomb grille, sporty headlamps and rear combination lamps.
Alto K10 offers spacious interiors, dual-tone upholstery, speedometer with digital speed display, 7-inch touchscreen and steering mounted audio and voice controls. Maruti Alto K10 is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol motor that generates 66 PS and 89 Nm. Transmission choices include 5-speed manual and AGS.
Maruti S-Presso
For a strong road presence, users can choose the Maruti S-Presso. The car is available at a starting price of Rs 4.27 lakh. Some of the key highlights include a bold front fascia, twin chamber headlamps and electrically adjustable body colored ORVMs.
Features on the inside include steering mounted audio and voice controls and dynamic center console with 7-inch touchscreen. Maruti S-Presso offers ample legroom for all passengers and has a wide and spacious boot. Engine and transmission choices are the same as Maruti Alto K10.
Renault Kwid
One of the popular entry-level cars in India, Renault Kwid is available at a starting price of Rs 4.70 lakh. Kwid is preferred for its sporty styling and comprehensive range of features. Key highlights include stylish front grille with chrome accents, sleek LED DRLs, polygonal headlamps, dual-tone flex wheels and edgy tail lamps with LED guide lights.
Inside, Renault Kwid offers an 8-inch touchscreen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, hands-free calling, steering mounted audio controls and LED digital instrument cluster. Renault Kwid is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine that delivers 68 PS and 91 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.
While the above cars are great for basic needs, one can get even better options by increasing the budget by around Rs 1 lakh. With a budget of Rs 6 lakh, users can consider options such as Maruti Wagon R (Rs 5.55 lakh), Maruti Swift (Rs 5.99 lakh), Maruti Ignis (5.84 lakh), Tata Tiago (Rs 5.65 lakh) and Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS (Rs 5.92 lakh).
Pankaj Bansal Founder at NewsPatrolling.com