2020 is about to come to an end and we’re stuck in the global pandemic situation. Due to the fact that public transports have come to a complete halt, most of the commuters are now investing in their own private vehicles, while others for the services to resume. And this makes a lot of sense, after all, one can totally abide by the social distancing rules in a private vehicle. How’s that going to be possible in public transports – which, too, are going to be resumed very shortly – is quite beyond me.
So, for someone looking for a budget-end car, choices are a lot. And, therefore, making the right decision is rather tough. Thankfully, we know all about cars and we’re here to help you with that decision. So, here are the 5 most affordable cars you can purchase in the Indian market.
1. Maruti Suzuki Alto
This one needs no special introduction. After all, the Maruti Suzuki Alto’s success is no secret story to anyone in this country. Even though it doesn’t score well in the looks department, the Alto excels in the reliability and durability department, since it dons that Suzuki badging. Plus, the updated BS-VI model of the Alto gets a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, among other nice-to-have features. As for the mileage, the Alto is claimed to return 22.05km/l. It comes powered by a 796cc three-cylinder petrol engine, which makes 48bhp and 69nm of torque.
2. Renault Kwid
For a budget-end car, the Renault Kwid is quite a looker. The Renault Kwid is designed to look like a small crossover, which works in its favour given the current SUV craze. The split-headlamp design – replete with LED DRLs on the top and the main headlamp unit lower down the bumper – of the Renault Kwid makes it one of the most sophisticated hatchbacks out there, which, too, translates into its sales numbers. On the equipment front, the Kwid also gets an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto support and a segment-first rear armrest and a reverse parking camera. It comes with either an 800cc engine or a slightly punchier 1.0-litre mill.
3. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso
After the Alto, it’s the S-Presso that takes the pride of being the homegrown carmaker’s affordable hatchback – or, as the manufacturer likes to call it, a mini-SUV. Given the Renault Kwid’s success in our market, Maruti Suzuki came up with a similar formula last year with the S-Presso. However, unlike the Kwid, the S-Presso’s design is an acquired taste, at best. What works in its favour is a very spacious cabin, which can easily accommodate four full-sized adults. Like the other two, the S-Presso here also gets a touchscreen infotainment system, which is the same as the Alto. On top of that, it also boasts steering-mounted controls and a digital speedometer. The S-Presso is solely powered by the company’s K10B 1.0-litre engine, which is a gem of an engine.
4. Maruti Suzuki Eeco
Unlike the other cars in the blog, the Maruti Suzuki Eeco is a utilitarian vehicle. This means, while the others are suited for private use, the Eeco comes across as more of a utility vehicle. Therefore, it’s rectangular and boxy design results in a good interior room inside. It can easily seat 7 people in comfort. Moreover, it comes powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine, which is good for 73bhp and 101Nm of torque.
5. Datsun redi-GO
Last but not the least, the Datsun redi-GO is, essentially, the sibling of the Renault Kwid. What this means, both cars share the same platform and engine options. The Datsun just received a mid-cycle facelift, and it looks better than ever. Moreover, as far as features go, you do get leading 8.0-inch touchscreen with both Apple Carplay/Android Auto, internally adjustable ORVMs, LED DRLs, and all the basic necessities. It is also the only car in the segment to feature LED fog lamps. The powertrain options, as said above, are the same as the Kwid.
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