Rs 8 lakh buys more car than ever. After the recent GST rate cuts, even the entry price of a petrol hatchback is low, and several compact SUVs now start near the Rs 8 lakh line. The trick is knowing which car suits your use. The prices below are entry-level ex-showroom figures from published lists, so the car you actually want, in a higher variant, will cost more.
At a Glance
| Car | Starting price | Claimed mileage | Boot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Alto K10 | Rs 3.69 lakh | 24.90 kpl; 33.40 km/kg CNG | 214 L |
| Renault Kwid | Rs 4.53 lakh | - | 279 L |
| Maruti WagonR | Rs 4.99 lakh | 24.43 kpl; 33.47 km/kg CNG | 341 L |
| Hyundai Grand i10 Nios | Rs 5.60 lakh | - | 260 L |
| Hyundai Exter | Rs 5.81 lakh | - | 391 L |
| Maruti Baleno | Rs 5.99 lakh | 23.80 kpl (MT) | 318 L |
| Tata Punch | Rs 6.65 lakh | - | 366 L |
Mileage figures are manufacturer claims where available. A dash means we did not have a reliable figure to quote. Prices change by city and date.
Best for the Lowest Running Cost: Alto K10 and WagonR
Both have CNG options with claimed figures above 33 km/kg, and the Alto K10 has six airbags as standard according to published specifications. The WagonR gives far more boot space (341 litres against 214 litres), so it is the better family choice.
If you drive more than 1,000 km a month, take the CNG version. The extra purchase cost is usually earned back within a few years. If you drive under 600 km, stick with petrol.
Best for Space: Hyundai Exter
At 391 litres the Exter has the largest boot among the cars listed here, and it is a small SUV in shape, which many buyers prefer for the higher seating position.
Best for Features and Resale: Baleno
The facelifted Baleno starts at Rs 5.99 lakh and offers the most equipment in this group, including a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless phone connectivity on higher variants. The Delta manual at Rs 7.00 lakh is the sweet spot.
Best for Safety: Tata Punch
Tata cites a 5-star Global NCAP rating for the Punch, which starts at Rs 6.65 lakh. Check the airbag count on your chosen variant, as it is listed inconsistently in published sources. If safety is your priority, also look at the Nexon and XUV 3XO, which both start at Rs 7.99 lakh and are just on the edge of this budget.
If You Can Stretch to Rs 8 Lakh
The Nissan Magnite starts at Rs 5.62 lakh, and the Maruti Fronx starts at roughly Rs 7.5 lakh. The Nexon and XUV 3XO begin at Rs 7.99 lakh. Remember that on-road prices add insurance, registration and fees, so budget about 10 to 15 percent more than the ex-showroom price.
Buying Tips
- Compare on-road prices, not ex-showroom, and ask for the full breakup.
- Check year-end discounts: November and December stock clearance can be generous.
- Decide on petrol, CNG or AMT before visiting. It narrows the choice quickly.
- Take a test drive on your own commute route, with the AC on.