Best 1200cc cars in India

In the compact car segment of India, 1200cc cars have become increasingly popular due to their enticing blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. These vehicles excel in urban driving situations, effortlessly navigating tight spaces and congested city streets. Despite their smaller engine size, modern 1200cc cars have made significant advancements in power output and efficiency.They offer sufficient acceleration for daily commutes and occasional highway journeys. Technological advancements such as variable valve timing and turbocharging have further improved their performance capabilities.

Their lighter weight and efficient engine designs allow for impressive mileage, resulting in savings on fuel costs and reduced environmental impact. Also, the smaller engine size often translates to lower insurance premiums and maintenance expenses, making these cars more economically viable to own and operate.

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

The 1197cc petrol engine in the Wagon R generates 89 PS of power and a torque of 113 Nm. The engine is tuned for mileage, and it is available with a 5-speed manual transmission and a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT).

The Wagon R offers good fuel efficiency with the 1.2-litre engine. The mileage figures for the manual transmission variant are 23.56 km/l, while the AMT variant offers slightly better mileage at 24.43 km/l.

The Wagon R is best suited for city driving due to its compact dimensions and light controls. 

The third-generation Maruti Suzuki Wagon R retains the “tall boy” design of its predecessors, having a more appealing appearance while prioritising practicality. The high roof allows for easy entry and exit, excellent visibility from the elevated seats, and a spacious cabin. 

Tata Tiago

The Tata Tiago is available with two engine options: a 1.2-litre petrol engine generating power output of 86 PS and a torque of 113 Nm. and a 1.2-litre CNG engine producing a power output of 73 PS and 95 Nm of torque. You are offered the choice of a 5 speed manual or automatic on the petrol while the CNG comes with just a manual. It is a reliable and fuel-efficient engine, offering a good balance of performance and mileage. Both engine options provide adequate power for city commutes and offer a comfortable driving experience.

The Tata Tiago incorporates design elements and safety features from Jaguar and Range Rover, benefiting from Tata’s expertise gained through their acquisition of these brands. The Tiago’s stylish design and nimble handling make it a perfect fit for urban environments. Additionally, its fuel efficiency and quick acceleration enhance the overall driving experience, especially during overtaking manoeuvres.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Hyundai has further streamlined the Grand i10 Nios’ engine options. The diesel and turbo variants have been phased out, leaving the 1.2-litre petrol as the sole choice. This engine produces 84 PS power and 113.8 Nm torque, available with a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. The driving experience remains refined and easygoing, suitable for city driving. Additionally, there’s a CNG variant powered by a 1197 cc engine, yielding 69 PS power and 95.2 Nm torque with an impressive fuel efficiency of 27.30 km/kg. The Hyundai i10 Nios is a stylish and practical hatchback that excels in both versatility and comfort. Its modern design captures attention, while the well-designed interior provides a premium and spacious ambiance. The i10 Nios is equipped with advanced features, including an intuitive infotainment system, seamless smartphone connectivity, and a comprehensive range of safety technologies.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire gives you two engine options to choose from: a 1.2-liter petrol engine generating a power output of 90 PS and a torque of 113 Nm, and a 1.2-liter CNG engine,  producing 77 PS of power and 98.5 Nm of torque. Maruti Suzuki has made improvements to these engines to enhance fuel economy. You can opt for either a manual or automatic transmission, depending on your preference.

When it comes to mileage, the Dzire petrol variant provides a mileage of approximately 22.41 kmpl, while the CNG variant offers an impressive 31.12 km/kg.

In terms of design, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire boasts a sleek and stylish look that exudes modernity and elegance. Compared to its previous generations, the Dzire integrates the boot seamlessly, giving it a more streamlined appearance. 

Tata Altroz

The Tata Altroz gives you two choices: a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated (NA) engine that packs a punch with 86 PS of power and 113 Nm of torque, or a turbocharged 1.2-liter petrol engine that delivers an impressive 110 PS of power and 140 Nm of torque. The  1.2-liter NA engine is paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) transmission. The 1.2-liter turbo petrol comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

When it comes to mileage, the Altroz’s 1.2L NA petrol engine gives you 19.33 Kmpl with the manual transmission, and the DCT automatic variant offers 18.5 Kmpl. The 1.2L turbo petrol engine provides a mileage of approximately 18.1 Kmpl with the manual transmission.

The Tata Altroz combines style, safety, and practicality in a fantastic way. Its bold and unique design sets it apart from the crowd, showing off Tata’s commitment to modern aesthetics. Safety is a top priority with the Altroz, thanks to its strong build quality and comprehensive safety features. Plus, the precise handling and comfortable ride make every drive a joyous experience.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

The Maruti Baleno’s refined and responsive K12N engine offers a choice between a petrol, producing 90 PS of power and torque of 115 Nm and a CNG, pumping out 77.5 Ps and torque of 98.5 Nm. It is available in both manual and automatic transmissions. The Baleno delivers a mileage ranging from 22.35 kmpl to 30.61 km/kg, depending on the variant and fuel type. It incorporates features like ‘DualJet’ technology, dual variable valve timing (VVT), and a higher compression ratio.

The Maruti Baleno is a hatchback that seamlessly blends style, comfort, and practicality. Its modern and dynamic design, coupled with its aerodynamic contours, makes it visually appealing on the road. The peppy engine of the Baleno offers an excellent balance of fuel efficiency and performance, making it suitable for both city commuting and long-distance journeys.

Honda Amaze

Honda took a bold step by leveraging its expertise in the sedan market, where it has established a strong reputation for its solid construction and refined engines. They introduced the Honda Amaze specifically for budget-conscious consumers. The Amaze’s 1200cc petrol engine provides a delightful and smooth driving experience, especially in urban environments. Its well-balanced suspension effortlessly absorbs any bumps or uneven road surfaces you encounter. Also, with ample power at your disposal, the Amaze gives you the freedom to overtake or accelerate swiftly whenever you desire.

Under the hood, the Honda Amaze is equipped with a 1.2-liter petrol engine that generates 90PS of power and 110 Nm of torque. You have the option to choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT. Both options offer nearly identical fuel consumption figures, with approximately 18.6 kmpl for the manual transmission and 18.3 kmpl for the automatic variant.

Hyundai i20

The Hyundai i20 comes with a 1.2-liter petrol pumping out 88 PS and 114 Nm. You can take your pick between a five-speed manual transmission or a continuous variable transmission (CVT) for the i20.

When it comes to mileage, the Hyundai i20 1.2-liter engine gives you about 20.35 kmpl with the manual transmission and 19.65 kmpl with the automatic transmission. As with most Hyundai cars, the 1.2-liter engine performs smoothly with the manual and automatic gearboxes, offering a refined driving experience in the city and on the highway. 

Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon offers a 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine with manual and automatic transmissions, the former giving mileage figures of 17.57 Kmpl (MT) while the latter gives 16.35 Kmpl (AT). Aside from its performance, the engine of the Nexon complies with the BS6 Phase 2 emissions standards, which means it has reduced noise and vibration compared to Phase 1 engines. Tata has gone a step further to enhance the Nexon’s appeal by introducing an upgraded 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine. Through hardware and software upgrades, the power output of the petrol variant has been boosted to an impressive 122 PS.

With its impressive sales figures and a notable 5-star GNCAP safety rating, the Tata Nexon has played a significant role in Tata’s resurgence as a major player in the Indian market. Leveraging their expertise from the renowned Land Rover and Jaguar brands, Tata has crafted a crossover SUV that stands out with its design, quality, road handling, and safety features. 

Mahindra XUV300

The Mahindra XUV300 is now offered with the choice of two turbo petrol engines :- one delivering 110 PS of power and 200 Nm of torque while the other gives 131 PS and an even higher torque of 230 Nm (crossing 250 Nm with the Transient Overboost function). The engine comes paired to a 6 speed transmission, ensuring optimised gear shifts and an improved fuel efficiency. You also have the option of a 6 speed autoSHIFT automatic transmission.

The XUV300 maintains its safety credentials with a remarkable 5-star NCAP rating. It comes equipped with a comprehensive list of additional features such as front parking sensors, a sunroof, cruise control, auto headlamps, and wipers. All these features make the XUV300 a well-equipped and attractive option in its class.The Mahindra XUV300 has  a premium crossover design that gives a smart and appealing appearance.

Summary

1200cc cars have several key benefits like their excellent fuel efficiency, which allows drivers to save on fuel costs and reduce their environmental impact. These cars are often more affordable in terms of purchase price, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs compared to larger vehicles. This makes them a budget-friendly option for individuals looking for economical transportation.

They are compact and highly manoeuvrable, making them ideal for navigating tight city streets, parking in small spaces, and performing quick turns. 

However, there are some limitations to consider. Due to their smaller engine size, 1200cc cars may lack the power and acceleration needed for high-speed or demanding driving situations.The compact size of these cars may result in limited interior space, making them less suitable for larger families or those needing ample cargo capacity. 

Overall, 1200cc cars offer a balance of fuel efficiency, affordability, and manoeuvrability, but they may not be the best option for those seeking high performance or spacious interiors.