10 Best Low Maintenance Cars in India

Buying a car in India involves several considerations and low maintenance cost is one of the key ones among them. Low maintenance cars not only save money in the long run but also offer peace of mind with their reliability. These cars  typically come with durable components, efficient engines, and ensure minimal upkeep. In this article, we explore the 10 best low maintenance cars in India, each offering a balance of affordability, efficiency, and reliability. From compact hatchbacks to family sedans, and even an SUV, these cars cater to diverse needs, while keeping maintenance costs in check.

Also Read – Hybrid Cars In India

List of Best Low Maintenance Cars in India

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10

Be it up the mountains in the north or along the coastal roads down south, an Alto K10 happily ferrying passengers can be easily spotted. It’s because this Indo-Japanese entry-level hatchback has long been an overwhelming favourite among Indian car buyers, primarily due to its affordable price and low maintenance cost. With its compact size, excellent fuel efficiency, and easy manoeuvrability, the Alto K10 is perfect for city driving. In addition, the Alto K10 is known for its reliability and minimal service requirements, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious consumers. Its simple construction and impeccable engineering ensure it remains one of the least expensive cars to maintain. Moreover, Maruti Suzuki’s widespread service network further reduces the hassles of car ownership and cost of maintenance.

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 Specifications

• Engine: 1.0 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed  AMT
• Mileage: 24.39 km/l – 24.9 km/l (petrol) / 33.85 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Dual front airbags
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Hatchback

Renault Kwid

It is not everyday that a low-cost vehicle is able to call itself stylish. Since its inception in 2015, the Renault Kwid has managed to do just that. Coming from the French carmaker, the Kwid has carved a niche for itself with its perfect blend of style, efficiency, and low maintenance costs. Moreover, its compact size is ideal for urban environments, and the high 184 mm ground clearance adds to its usability over bad terrain. Over the years, the Kwid has proven its reliable performance and made itself a popular choice for those looking for an economical hatchback that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics.

Renault Kwid Specifications

• Engine: 1.0 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed AMT
• Mileage: 21.7 km/l – 22 km/l
• Airbags: Dual front airbags
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Hatchback

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

With a legacy which spans back to 1999, the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R is one of the most successful cars in India. Two prime reasons behind its success have been its practicality and low running costs. Its refined engines and reliable components ensure long-term durability and minimal service requirements. In addition to that, its spacious interior and high seating position provide excellent comfort and visibility, making it an excellent choice among families and elderly drivers. The Wagon R is engineered to be a hassle-free car with low maintenance needs, and enjoys the same extensive service network as other Maruti Suzuki cars.

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Specifications

• Engine: 1.0 litre petrol engine, 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed AMT
• Mileage: 23.56 km/l – 25.19 km/l (petrol) / 33.48 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Dual front airbags
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Hatchback

Tata Tiago

Tata’s most affordable car is a serious contender on this list. In the segment led by the Maruti Swift, the Tata Tiago also stands out with its stylish design, robust build quality, and impressive fuel efficiency. Tata Motors has focused on making the Tiago a low-maintenance vehicle by incorporating durable components. The Tiago is also known for its features, which add to its appeal as a family car. With a comfortable interior and a smooth ride, the Tiago is built to be an economical and practical choice for everyday use. The fact that it gets CNG along with a usable boot is simply the icing on the cake.

Tata Tiago Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed AMT
• Mileage: 19 km/l (petrol) / 26.49 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Dual front airbags
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Hatchback

Maruti Suzuki Swift

The Swift has recently gone through a whole generational update, which gave it a bump in features, a new engine, and a lot more. However, some of its old traits remain embodied in its character, one of which is its low maintenance cost. Along with a low maintenance cost, the Swift offers a great resale value, for it’s one of the best-selling cars in India. Moreover,  the Swift is known for its sporty performance and responsive handling, and offers a fun driving experience, while maintaining its economical character. Its efficient engine and reliable components ensure that it requires minimal servicing. The extensive Maruti Suzuki service network further enhances its appeal, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for urban and highway driving.

Maruti Suzuki Swift Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed AMT
• Mileage: 24.8 km/l – 25.75 km/l (petrol) / 32.85 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Six airbags standard
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Hatchback

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios

Hyundai’s smallest car for the Indian market, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios, makes a big impact when it comes to ownership costs. It is a well-rounded hatchback, offering a blend of style and comfort. Hyundai’s commitment to quality is evident in the Nios, which boasts a comfortable interior and  advanced features for its segment. The car’s efficient engine adds to its low maintenance requirements, and Hyundai’s extensive service network ensures that maintenance is both affordable and convenient. The Grand i10 Nios balances the scales perfectly when it comes to being practical, and premium, at the same time.

Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: Manual/AMT
• Mileage: 16 – 18 km/l (petrol) / 27 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Six airbags standard
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Hatchback

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

The Maruti Suzuki Dzire compact sedan is known for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and low maintenance costs. It offers a spacious cabin and a comfortable ride quality, making it an ideal choice for both city commuting and long drives. The Dzire’s low maintenance is attributed to Maruti Suzuki’s reliable engineering and widespread service network, ensuring owners can enjoy hassle-free ownership without frequent visits to the workshop. Also, genuine Maruti Suzuki spare parts are available at most automotive workshops across the country. 

Maruti Suzuki Dzire Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed AMT
• Mileage: 22.41 km/l – 22.61 km/l (petrol) / 31.12 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Dual front airbags
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Sedan

Hyundai Aura

The Hyundai Aura offers an appealing package of style, comfort, and efficiency. This compact sedan is built to provide a premium experience at an affordable cost. Hyundai’s focus on quality and durability ensures that the Aura remains a reliable vehicle with minimal servicing needs. Its advanced features, spacious interior, and efficient engine make it a compelling choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet refined family sedan. 

Hyundai Aura Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed AMT
• Mileage: 17 km/l (petrol) / 22 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Six airbags standard
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Sedan

Toyota Glanza

The Toyota Glanza is a hatchback that is based on the popular Maruti Suzuki hatchback Baleno. Underneath the skin, they are both essentially the same car. What differentiates the two is slight styling tweaks and their respective brand logos all over the car. The Glanza is a practical package and all of its starts with the engine. It is frugal, yet has the power to impress with its performance output once you put your foot down. You can choose between a manual or an AMT transmission, and both are slick to operate. The interior, though not outrightly premium, feels up to date and the features on offer reflect a similar sentiment. The Glanza, being a Japanese machine, is quite reliable as well and as far as maintenance goes, it is one of the best options in its segment.

Toyota Glanza Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / 5 speed AMT
• Mileage: 22.35 km/l – 22.94 km/l (petrol) / 30.61 km/kg (CNG)
• Airbags: Six airbags
• Fuel Type: Petrol/CNG
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Hatchback

Honda Amaze

Japanese carmaker Honda has been present in India since before the turn of the century and over the years, it has carved out a name for itself for being reliable and producing cars that have low maintenance cost. The Amaze is Honda’s most affordable car in the Indian market and it too has built a name for itself on the reliability and maintenance front. It is available only with a petrol engine and it can be speeded with either a manual or a CVT transmission. The latter makes it quite city friendly and being a sedan, it’s quite practical as well with loads of space on offer inside the passenger cabin. The Honda service network is quite widespread in the country and therefore maintaining the Honda Amaze is light work.

Honda Amaze Specifications

• Engine: 1.2 litre petrol engine
• Transmission: 5 speed Manual / CVT
• Mileage: 18.3 km/l – 18.6 km/l
• Airbags: Dual front airbags
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Type: Sedan

Summary

Choosing a low-maintenance car keeps the overall cost of ownership affordable, and provides peace of mind. The cars listed above, including popular models like the Maruti Suzuki Alto, Renault Kwid, Maruti Suzuki WagonR, Tata Tiago, and others, offer reliable performance, efficient fuel consumption, and minimal service requirements. These vehicles are manufactured to be economical without compromising on quality, making them ideal choices for budget-conscious buyers. With extensive service networks and dependable engineering, these cars ensure owners can enjoy hassle-free driving experiences while keeping maintenance costs as low as possible.

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