Best Cars in India Under 15 Lakhs in 2026

Every car owner expects their automobile to offer the best balance of comfort, efficiency, and dependability. At the same time, the vehicle should be affordable, aesthetically pleasing, and fun to drive. While each car in the market has its niche, some automobiles have indeed bypassed others to become a perfect package of price and performance. 

Also, if you are planning to get a car, it should be known that it is mandatory to have car insurance as per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. It also covers losses against theft, accidents, traffic fines, and damage to the car so that you can drive with peace of mind.

If you are looking for the best cars under 15 lakhs in India, this list is an excellent place to start. 

So, without much ado, let’s begin!

1. New Maruti Dzire | Starting ₹6.26 Lakhs

Source: marutisuzuki.com

The New Dezire has a spacious interior, plenty of storage, and is comfortable to drive. The new Dzire is available with Swift's Z-series petrol engine. It has LED headlamps, DRLs, 360-degree camera, blind spot monitor, and complete LED tail lamps.

A 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, a driver-side analogue display, wireless phone charging and cruise control are all part of the Maruti Dzire's standard kit. The Dzire also consists of an innovative single-pane sunroof for India's subcompact vehicle market.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: 25.71 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1197cc
• Body type: Sedan
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol/ CNG
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, ESC, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Hill Assist, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, and 360 View Camera

2. Maruti FRONX | Starting ₹6.85 Lakhs

Source: nexaexperience.com

The Maruti FRONX is a noticeable entity amongst the new generation of automobiles. The bold exterior styling and high ground clearance give it a mini-SUV vibe that looks pretty cool, and the inside of the car feels like a premium offering for its class.

You can opt for either an efficient petrol or turbocharged variant - both give you smooth performance and great mileage. So if you are an adrenaline junkie looking for a pocket-friendly purchase, the FRONX is the one for you.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 21 kmpl and 28.51 km/kg
• Engine displacement: Up to 1197cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol and CNG
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, and Hill Assist

3. Hyundai i20 | Starting ₹6.87 Lakhs

Source: hyundai.com

The i20 is one of the significant names that comes to mind when discussing a compact car for a nuclear family. The hatchback is loaded with the latest features like a multifunction steering wheel, sunroof, wireless charging and lots more. 

The most noticeable thing is that the car packs a handsome mileage of up to 20 kmpl at a reasonable price, making the i20 a definite go in this list. Its interior feels suitably upmarket thanks to a solid infotainment system and plenty of room to stretch out. The engine options are both fuel-efficient and fun, plus Hyundai's strong support network really adds to the car's appeal.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 20 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1197cc
• Body type: Hatchback
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, and Hill Assist

4. Kia Sonet | Starting ₹7.30 Lakhs

Source: kia.com

The Kia Sonet boasts a powerful Smartstream G1.2 engine that produces 81.8 bhp and 115 Nm of torque. The powerful SUV comes with a FWD technology. This car has various drive modes, ventilated seats, a sunroof, and many other exciting features.

The touchscreen interface, ventilated seats and driving modes all make for a pretty smooth daily commute. There's also a diesel option if you're planning on taking long road trips - it gives the car a bit more flexibility. Overall, the Sonet strikes a great balance between performance and comfort.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 24 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1493cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol and Diesel
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, 360 View Camera, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, and Hill Assist

5. Tata Nexon | Starting ₹7.32 Lakhs

Source: cars.tatamotors.com

Tata Nexon comes with a 1.5 L turbocharged Revotorq diesel engine producing a power of 109 hp, and a 1.2 L turbocharged Revotron petrol engine with 118 hp of power with a 6 - 6-speed AMT. The SUV has a ground clearance of 208 mm and a 44 L fuel tank, amongst other specs.

It has built its rep on being safe and tough - and it's definitely earned that 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. The design is modern and bold, and the interior quality has improved over the years. The turbocharged engines and smooth suspension make it just as efficient on the highway as it is in the city.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 17.44 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1199cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol and diesel 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Traction Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), 360 View Camera, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, ADAS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Hill Descent Control and Hill Assist

6. Citroen Basalt | Starting ₹7.95 Lakhs

Source: Citroen.in

The Citroen Basalt is an affordable and stylish SUV coupe that borrows heavily from the C3 Aircross. The engine options for Citroen's SUV coupe has wireless phone charging, a 10.2-inch touchscreen, and a 7-inch digital dashboard, it also has autonomous air conditioning.

It is a standout with its unique styling and French-inspired take on comfort.  The car's really focused on providing a smooth ride, which is reflected in the suspension tuning and noise insulation. Inside, the cabin's got a different layout than you'd expect - but in a significant way.  Finally, the seats are built for long road trips.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 18.7 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1199cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol 
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Assist, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Anti-theft device, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and rear camera

7. Mahindra Bolero | Starting ₹7.99 Lakhs

source: auto.mahindra.com

The Mahindra Bolero is to be a top pick for anyone who needs a no-nonsense utility vehicle. It's not about style - it's about getting the job done. The diesel engine gives you plenty of torque for rural or semi-urban driving, and the low maintenance costs just make it that much more appealing. Lots of people still swear by the Bolero for its dependability.

It comes with the signature mHAWK75 3-cylinder diesel engine, producing a max power of 74.96 bhp and a max torque of 210 Nm. The SUV has a 7-seater seating capacity with a 5-speed manual transmission. It also holds a 370 L boot space. These all make sure you never run out of space in this SUV.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 16 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1493cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 7
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Central Lock, Door Ajar Warning, and Engine Immobiliser

8. Mahindra Thar | Starting ₹9.99 Lakhs

Source: auto.mahindra.com

If you wish to make a strong statement wherever you go, the Mahindra Thar is the best car in India, under 15 lakhs for you. It delivers unrivalled performance on all terrains. A mHawk 130 CRDe engine producing a massive power of 130.07 bhp and a 6-speed automatic transmission makes it a very popular choice amongst the younger generation of car enthusiasts.

The 4x4 capability, powerful engine options and the open-top design all make it a real head-turner for adventure-seekers. Inside the new Thar is a big step up from the old one - it's got touchscreen infotainment, climate control and loads of new features to make it feel really modern.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 9 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 2184cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: Hill Descent Control, Traction Control, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Descent Control, ABS with EBD, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Hill Assist

9. Hyundai Verna | Starting ₹10.69 Lakhs

Source: hyundai.com

The new Hyundai Verna has a 1.5 L Turbo GDi Petrol with a 7-speed DCT Automatic transmission. It also holds a turbocharger, ensuring you are never short on power. The looks are the most astounding and eye-catching features of this car. 

It has a continuous, sleek LED DRL in the front and separate LED headlights. The long body of the Verna will turn heads wherever you go. If you spend a lot of your daily life in the driver's seat, the cabin quality is sure to impress. Features like ventilated seats and a digital instrument cluster make it a solid all-rounder.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 20.6 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1497cc
• Body type: Sedan
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, ADAS, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Traction Control, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Descent Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Hill Assist

10. Hyundai Creta | Starting ₹10.73 Lakhs

Source: hyundai.com

The Creta is one of the first names that comes to mind when discussing a family SUV car. It comes with an FWD and possesses a 1.5 L T-GDi engine. Moreover, it also has a 7-speed DCT automatic transmission. All these make Creta an excellent choice for a car under 15 lakhs.

In addition to refined powertrains and a comfortable ride, this model boasts an infotainment system that's actually easy to use, and a design that makes it look and feel like a proper premium SUV. With performance and reliability consistently on point, it's no surprise that this is one of the most popular choices in its class.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 17.4 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1497cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol and Diesel
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Traction Control, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, Anti-Pinch Power Windows, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Descent Control, 360 View Camera, ADAS, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Hill Assist

11. Maruti Grand Vitara | Starting ₹10.77 Lakhs

source: maruti

An attractive and spacious SUV, the Grand Vitara shines in several respects, including its fuel efficiency (especially on strong-hybrid and compressed natural gas models), ease of entry and departure, and comfortable ride.

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is created by combining the headlights, grille, and DRLs. The 1.5-litre K15C petrol engine is a mild hybrid that delivers 102 horsepower and 137 Nm. It has a panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree camera - making it a great choice for anyone looking for a refined and efficient SUV for daily driving.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 27.97 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1490 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol, Hybrid and CNG
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, ADAS, Traction Control, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, 360-degree camera, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill Assist

12. Kia Seltos | Starting ₹10.79 Lakhs

source: kia

The Kia Seltos is an improved model that offers more bang for the buck than its predecessor. This fashionable car has several firsts in its class, including a turbo-petrol engine and Level 2 sophisticated driver-aid technologies.

The Seltos features advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), two 10.25-inch screens, LED headlights with daytime running lights (DRLs), and connected LED taillights. Only the X-Line models have a head-up display, and the driver's seat can be electrically adjusted. 

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 19.1 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1493 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol, Diesel
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Traction Control, Hill Assist, Pretensioners & Force Limiter Seatbelts, ADAS, Anti-Pinch Power Windows, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, 360-degree camera, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

13. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder | Starting ₹10.95 Lakhs

The Urban Cruiser Hyryder is a breathtaking vehicle. With plenty of room and supportive seats, the sturdy, ergonomic cabin is ideal for any journey. Driving is enjoyable because of its excellent hybrid efficiency, refined performance, steady highway manners, and advanced driver assistance systems.

A 1.5-litre petrol engine powers the strong-hybrid self-charging electric variant. It also has connected car technology, a 360-degree camera, and an infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen. 

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 27.97 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1490 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Petrol, Hybrid and CNG
• Airbags: 6
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, ADAS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Hill Assist

14. Mahindra Scorpio | Starting ₹12.98 Lakhs

Mahindra Scorpio's diesel engine is more than enough to handle off-road terrain. Its seven—or nine-passenger capacity makes transporting people and their possessions a delight. Considering its price, the Mahindra Scorpio Classic's features are the bare minimum. It includes auto climate control with vents in the second and third rows, a height-adjustable driver's seat, and a 9-inch touchscreen. 

It is a no-nonsense SUV that can handle just about anything the Indian roads can throw at you. With a strong diesel engine and a commanding road presence, it's been a favourite among SUV enthusiasts for years. And even though it's had its fair share of modern updates, it's still retained its tough-as-nails DNA.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 14.44 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 2184 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 7,9
• Fuel type: Diesel and Petrol
• Airbags: 2
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Anti Theft Device, Engine Immobilizer, Door Ajar Warning, Speed Sensing Auto Door Lock, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

15. Tata Harrier | Starting ₹14 Lakhs

The Harrier's roomy interior, numerous practical features, and ample trunk make it a perfect choice. According to Global NCAP, the Tata Harrier's safety rating is five stars. A 10.24-inch digital instrument cluster, a voice-activated panoramic sunroof with mood lights, and an intelligent parking brake with auto-hold are just a few of the advancements in the Tata Harrier. 

Front fog lamps with cornering capability and automated LED projector headlights are also part of it.  The cabin is roomy and well-built, making it perfect for long drives. With its balance of performance and style, it's a real standout in the SUV market for people who want quality for the price.

Key Specifications:

• Mileage: Up to 16.8 kmpl
• Engine displacement: Up to 1956 cc
• Body type: SUV
• Seating capacity: 5
• Fuel type: Diesel
• Airbags: 7
• Safety Features: ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Descent Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), 360-degree camera, Traction Control, Impact Sensing Auto Door Unlock, Hill Descent Control, ADAS and Hill Assist

Moreover, other notable cars under 15 lakhs in India include the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Tata Punch, Kia Seltos and Hyundai Venue.

And those were our top picks of cars under 15 lakhs in India. Now that you have prior information on these automobiles, we hope purchasing one will be a breeze.

Also, obtaining third-party car insurance coverage is advisable to ensure financial security in case of a mishap