In today’s world of expensive cars and rising prices, finding a good car under ₹5 lakhs might feel like a challenge. But if you look closely, there are still a few options that make perfect sense. These cars may not have the latest features or flashy designs, but they are reliable, fuel-efficient, and serve the purpose for someone who just needs a car that gets the job done.
If you are planning to buy your first car or need a small city ride, this list is just for you. I’ve gone through each option keeping value for money and daily usability in mind. Whether you’re in India or checking options globally to understand budget cars, this article helps break things down in a very simple way.
Let’s explore these cars and see why they are still relevant in 2025.
7 Cars Under ₹5 Lakhs That Are Still Totally Worth Buying in 2025
Maruti Suzuki Alto 800
If there’s one car that has ruled Indian roads for decades, it’s the Alto. Even though production officially ended, many used models are still available under ₹5 lakhs. And guess what? They still make a lot of sense.
Alto is cheap to maintain, easy to drive in traffic, and gives amazing mileage. For someone who just wants to get from point A to point B without any drama, Alto does the job. You might not get modern features, but you’ll enjoy peace of mind and a strong service network across India.
Renault Kwid
Among the very few cars that still offer a stylish design at this price point, the Renault Kwid stands out. It gives you that mini SUV feel without breaking the bank.
It’s got a touchscreen system in some variants, good boot space, and better ground clearance than most cars in this segment. If you’re someone who wants a little extra style and comfort in a small budget, the Kwid is worth checking out.
Maruti Suzuki Celerio (Used)
Brand new Celerio might be a little above ₹5 lakhs now, but the pre-owned market has some really good deals. The automatic variant is especially great for city driving.
The good thing about Celerio is that it feels slightly more premium than the Alto and gives you more space. It’s also very fuel efficient. For someone who wants more comfort and a light steering for traffic-heavy areas, Celerio makes total sense.
Hyundai Eon
Even though Hyundai has stopped making the Eon, it’s still a popular choice in the used car market. And for good reason.
It’s compact, looks better than many entry-level cars, and has that smooth Hyundai engine. I’ve seen people buying clean Eon models under ₹3.5 lakhs, which leaves room to spend on insurance or even minor upgrades.
Tata Tiago (Used)
Tiago is one of the safest hatchbacks in this price range. A lot of people don’t realize it, but used Tiago models under ₹5 lakhs offer great value.
It has solid build quality, a stable ride, and comes with features like infotainment screens and power windows. Tata has improved a lot in after-sales service and reliability, which makes Tiago a smart choice now. Especially if safety is your concern.
Datsun Redi Go
This car didn’t get much attention when it launched, but it has quietly found a place in the budget car segment. You can easily find a new or slightly used Redi Go for under ₹5 lakhs.
It’s simple and ideal for short city commutes. The best part? It’s very easy to drive and park. So if you’re a beginner or buying for someone who’s learning to drive, Redi Go fits right in.
Maruti Suzuki Wagon R (Old Gen)
There’s something about the Wagon R that just works. It’s tall, roomy, and built for daily use. The older versions are still available under ₹5 lakhs and they continue to hold their value well.
Families love it for the space it offers. And from a driver’s point of view, the upright seating is comfortable and visibility is great. Even with basic features, the car delivers what really matters.
Why These Cars Still Matter in 2025
You might wonder, with all the new launches and electric cars coming in, why would someone still go for a car under ₹5 lakhs?
The truth is simple. Not everyone wants to take a loan or spend too much on a car. Some people just want a basic, reliable machine that gets them around. Maybe it’s for a student, a small family, or even as a second car.
And that’s why these models still make sense. They may not have connected features or fancy interiors, but they are light on your pocket, and that matters more than ever in 2025.
Author’s take
If I were buying a car under ₹5 lakhs right now, I’d start by checking the used car market. There are real gems out there if you just take the time to look. Personally, I feel the Tiago and Wagon R offer the most long-term value. But if it’s your first car and you want to keep things simple, even a basic Alto or Redi Go can make your life easier.
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