Buying a car on a budget no longer means compromising on safety or features. The sub-₹10 lakh segment in India has become one of the most competitive spaces, offering everything from premium hatchbacks to compact SUVs and even 7-seaters. In this guide, we’ve handpicked the most practical and reliable cars under ₹10 lakhs for 2025, based on performance, efficiency, and safety.
1. Tata Punch
Tata’s Punch has quickly grown into one of the most trusted compact SUVs in India. With a rugged design, SUV-like ground clearance, and class-leading safety, it appeals to both city drivers and highway travellers.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Compact SUV |
| Engine / Power & Torque | 1.2-litre Revotron petrol, ~87 bhp & 115 Nm CNG, ~73 bhp & 103 Nm |
| Mileage / Transmission | ~18–19 kmpl, available with 5-speed Manual & AMT |
| Safety Features & Rating | Global NCAP 5-star rating (adult) & 4-star (child); dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX mounts, reinforced structure |
Why Buy? Safety-first design, practical size for Indian roads, reliable Tata build quality.
2. Maruti Suzuki Baleno
The Baleno remains a household name in the hatchback space, blending efficiency, premium interiors, and wide service reach. For those seeking a stylish yet economical daily driver, this one’s hard to ignore.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Premium Hatchback |
| Engine / Power & Torque | 1.2-litre K-Series petrol, ~89 bhp & 113 Nm CNG, ~76 bhp & 98 Nm |
| Mileage / Transmission | ~22 kmpl, 5-speed Manual or AMT; CNG option adds more efficiency |
| Safety Features & Rating | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP (higher trims), 360° camera, ISOFIX anchors |
Why Buy? Superb fuel efficiency, spacious cabin, and Maruti’s unbeatable service network.
3. Hyundai i20
Hyundai’s i20 is the go-to choice for buyers who want technology and design without going beyond budget. It offers a sporty character with premium features usually found in higher-segment cars.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Premium Hatchback |
| Engine / Power & Torque | 1.2-litre petrol, ~83–88 bhp & 115 Nm |
| Mileage / Transmission | ~20 kmpl, 5-speed Manual & CVT |
| Safety Features & Rating | Up to 6 airbags (segment-best), ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill Assist; strong structural integrity |
Why Buy? Premium features, multiple safety options, and Hyundai’s modern design language.
4. Renault Triber (2025 Facelift)
The Triber is India’s most affordable 7-seater, perfect for families who want space without stretching their budget. The 2025 facelift brings refreshed styling and improved cabin features.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Sub-Compact MPV (7-seater) |
| Engine / Power & Torque | 1.0-litre petrol, ~72–75 bhp & 96 Nm CNG, ~71 bhp & 96 Nm |
| Mileage / Transmission | ~18–20 kmpl, Manual & AMT options |
| Safety Features & Rating | Dual airbags standard; side airbags in higher trims; ABS with EBD; ISOFIX mounts |
Why Buy? True 7-seater under ₹10 lakhs, modular seating, practical for larger families.
5. Maruti Suzuki Brezza (Entry Variants)
The Brezza is a compact SUV that balances performance with fuel efficiency. While higher trims exceed ₹10 lakhs, the entry variants fit right into this list, giving SUV buyers a reliable and safe option.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Compact SUV |
| Engine / Power & Torque | 1.5-litre petrol, ~103 bhp & 137 Nm CNG, ~87 bhp & 121 Nm |
| Mileage / Transmission | ~20 kmpl, Manual & Automatic options |
| Safety Features & Rating | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, Hill-Hold Assist; strong build quality |
Why Buy? SUV appeal, reliable engine, great mileage, and Maruti’s peace of mind.
6. Skoda Kylaq
The Skoda Kylaq is one of the newest entrants in the compact SUV space, offering premium European design, a refined turbo-petrol engine, and a strong 5-star BNCAP safety rating.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Compact SUV / Crossover |
| Engine / Power & Torque | 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol, 114 bhp & 178 Nm |
| Mileage / Transmission | ~19.0 kmpl, 6-speed Manual & 6-speed Automatic (TC) |
| Safety Features & Rating | 5-star BNCAP safety rating; multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, rear parking sensors & camera |
Why Buy? A premium European crossover under ₹10 lakhs, fun-to-drive turbo engine, and top-notch safety credentials.
Updated Prices After GST-2.0 (Ex-Showroom)
| Car | New Ex-Showroom Price / Price Range* |
|---|---|
| Tata Punch | ~ ₹ 5.49 lakh (base petrol trims) |
| Maruti Suzuki Baleno | Starts at ~ ₹ 5.99 lakh |
| Skoda Kylaq | Starts at ~ ₹ 7.55 lakh for the base “Classic” variant after price drop of ~ ₹ 1.19 lakh |
| Hyundai i20 | Starts at ~ ₹ 6.86 lakh |
| Renault Triber | Starts at ~ ₹ 5.76 lakh |
| Maruti Suzuki Brezza (Entry Variants) | Starts at ~ ₹ 8.25 lakh |
Final Thoughts
The sub-₹10 lakh segment in 2025 is more exciting than ever. Buyers today can choose from a wide mix of hatchbacks, SUVs, and MPVs without overshooting their budget.
- Safety-focused → Tata Punch (5-star Global NCAP)
- Economy + Service → Maruti Baleno (efficient, wide service reach)
- Feature-rich → Hyundai i20 (premium features, multiple airbags)
- Family-friendly → Renault Triber (true 7-seater under ₹10 lakhs)
- SUV appeal → Maruti Brezza (trusted compact SUV)
- Premium European option → Skoda Kylaq (turbo-petrol fun, 5-star BNCAP, strong safety & features at a reduced entry price post-GST reforms)
Whichever way you go, these six cars guarantee modern features, safety, and excellent value for money. The GST 2.0 reforms have made them even more accessible, making 2025 the perfect year to bring home your new ride.